Date: September 29, 2026 By Spotlight African Reporters | Abuja The United States has urged the Nigerian government to sustain and strengthen its efforts to protect vulnerable communities in the country’s Middle Belt amid continuing security challenges. The call comes amid ongoing U.S.-Nigeria security cooperation, with Washington stressing the importance of protecting civilians, strengthening security institutions and ensuring that perpetrators of violent attacks are held accountable. Recent discussions between the two countries have focused on counter-terrorism operations, protection of vulnerable communities, support for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and deeper security cooperation. The United States has also encouraged Nigeria to continue creating conditions that would enable displaced communities to safely return to their ancestral homes. Nigeria continues to face security challenges, including terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and communal violence across several ...

From Spotlight African Reporters 26th September 2026 Former Super Eagles midfielder Sani Kaita has described Victor Osimhen’s absence from Nigeria’s squad as a major setback ahead of the Super Eagles’ international friendly against Russia in October. Kaita, a former Nigeria international, said Osimhen’s presence would have provided the national team with additional attacking strength and experience as the Super Eagles prepare for the encounter. Osimhen has established himself as one of Nigeria’s key attacking players, and his absence means the team could have to rely on other forwards to lead the line against the Russians. The former midfielder noted that games against strong opposition such as Russia provide important opportunities for the Super Eagles to assess their squad and build toward future international assignments. Nigeria are expected to use the October friendly to test different tactical options and give other attacking players an opportunity to make an impact. ...

By Spotlight African Reporters | Abuja September 25, 2026 The General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Rev. Sam Aboyeji, has urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith despite the economic hardship and mounting pressures facing citizens across the country. Aboyeji gave the advice during the first District Convocation and District Anniversary of the Foursquare Gospel Church, Pleasure District, in Lagos. Represented at the event by the Ikeja Axis Coordinator, Rev. Ayomide Abraham, the cleric encouraged Nigerians to continue trusting God for better times while remaining grateful for His provisions.  He acknowledged the economic pressure associated with high petrol prices but urged citizens to also recognise developments in the country, including improvements in infrastructure and access to student loans. The Foursquare leader further called on Nigerians to continue praying for economic recovery and an end to insecurity, while encouraging Christi...

By Spotlight African Reporters | World Dozens of delegates reportedly walked out of the United Nations General Assembly as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Israel’s military action against Iran and its strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. The walkout occurred during Netanyahu’s address, where he argued that Israel’s military operations were necessary to counter what he described as threats posed by Iran’s nuclear programme. Netanyahu used the UN platform to defend Israel’s actions and emphasize the country’s position that Iran’s nuclear capabilities represent a serious security threat. The departure of delegates from the assembly hall underscored the sharp international divisions surrounding Israel’s military campaign against Iran and the wider Middle East conflict. The confrontation at the UN comes amid continued international concern over escalating tensions in the region, with governments and diplomatic institutions calling for measures to prev...

By Spotlight African Reporters | International Desk WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. President Donald Trump has backed the idea of temporarily banning diesel exports as American fuel prices climb to record levels. Trump made the comments on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. “I’ve said let’s not send out the diesel. We make a lot of diesel,” Trump said, adding that he had already discussed the proposal with members of his administration. The proposal comes as the average U.S. diesel price has surged to about $6.53 per gallon, its highest recorded level, amid disruptions to global fuel supplies linked to conflicts involving Iran and Ukraine. Trump's support follows calls from some Republican lawmakers and candidates for restrictions on diesel exports, with proponents arguing that keeping more fuel inside the United States could help ease pressure on American consumers, farmers and transport...

By Spotlight African Reporters | Abuja September 23, 2026 The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and several petroleum marketers have reduced the prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, across major Nigerian depots following a decline in international crude oil prices. The latest reductions were recorded in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Calabar and Warri, with the biggest adjustment reported in Lagos. According to the latest depot price data, several operators reduced their petrol prices by between ₦20 and ₦25 per litre. Dangote cuts petrol price to ₦1,325 The Dangote Petroleum Refinery reduced its petrol price from ₦1,350 to ₦1,325 per litre, representing a ₦25 reduction. Other Lagos-based operators also adjusted their prices. Ascon, Integrated, Pinnacle and Sahara reportedly reduced their rates by about ₦24 per litre, while MRS reduced its price by ₦20 to ₦1,332 per litre. Prices fall across other cities In Port Harcourt, Masters reduced its petrol price to ₦1,328...

22nd September 2026 / From Spotlight African Reporters | Abuja A new media platform dubbed Trump TV has launched amid reports that major U.S. television networks have halted or reduced coverage of activities at the White House. The development has drawn attention to the changing media landscape surrounding the Trump administration, particularly the way presidential activities are covered and distributed to the American public. The launch of Trump TV is expected to provide another platform for audiences seeking direct coverage and commentary on the U.S. presidency. Further details on the platform’s operations, ownership and relationship with existing U.S. media outlets are expected to emerge as the new service expands. Stay connected to Spotlight African Reporters for more updates.