Today's Paper Roundup: Sat 24-10-2026
From bandit reprisals in Zamfara to political heirs facing corruption scrutiny, from a labour truce in Edo to the Flamingos' World Cup heroics, Saturday's papers span the gravity of insecurity and governance alongside the lighter notes of sport and culture.
Security & Governance
Premium Times reports on the human toll of banditry in Zamfara, detailing how communities in Dansadau Emirate are bearing the brunt of reprisal attacks after terror kingpin Dankarami Gwaska struck a military base and mining sites earlier this month in retaliation for the killing of his fighters. On the defence front, Leadership reports that the Defence Headquarters is planning dedicated veteran hospitals in each geopolitical zone, with the Chief of Defence Staff disclosing the initiative to address the medical needs of former servicemen. Meanwhile, the federal government is tightening procurement oversight, with Leadership noting a new directive requiring all MDAs to enforce a mandatory 14-day standstill period before finalising public contracts.
“Inside Zamfara communities, where residents bear brunt of reprisal attacks by bandits”
“DHQ Plans Geopolitical Zone Hospitals For Veterans”
“Federal Govt Enforces 14-Day Order On Public Procurement In MDAs”
Politics & 2027 Watch
With the 2027 general elections drawing political attention, Leadership reports that First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on members of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement to keep campaign outreach peaceful and respectful, stressing that every Nigerian deserves to be heard. In Edo, Vanguard reports that the state government and the Nigeria Labour Congress have struck a peace deal, with Labour moving to restore electricity following a meeting attended by Governor Okpebholo, NLC President Ajaero, Senator Adams Oshiomhole and the Minister of Labour and Employment. Also in government circles, Leadership reports that President Tinubu has lifted the suspension on permanent secretary M.S. Danjuma over an alleged fake agency matter, with the reinstatement following