Vice President Kashim Shettima. Photo: Stanley Nkwocha/X
The National Economic Council has endorsed a 90-day economic action plan aimed at reducing the cost of living, improving food affordability and attracting investment.
Also, Oyo State Governor and Allied Peoples Movement presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, has defended his decision to contest the 2027 election against a sitting president from the South-West.
More so, an awaiting-trial inmate, Osita Thomas, has escaped during a court appearance in Edo State.
This is as the Federal Capital Territory Police Command has arrested a man accused of using a forged “PRESIDENCY” number plate on a Lexus SUV in Maitama, Abuja.
Also, shortlisted candidates for the first batch of 30,000 paramilitary personnel will undergo mandatory drug tests before collecting their appointment letters.
And the Federal Government has proposed a harmonised 2027 examination timetable, with the UTME set for March and results of NECO, WAEC, NABTEB and NBAIS targeted for August.
Here is a recap of the major stories making headlines this evening.
1. NEC approves 90-day plan to reduce cost of living:
The plan focuses on food affordability, tax harmonisation, high-impact projects, investment bottlenecks and regulated household support. Vice President Kashim Shettima urged governors to ensure the benefits of reforms reach ordinary Nigerians.
Read full story: https://punchng.com/nec-approves-90-day-plan-to-reduce-cost-of-living/
2. Why I’m contesting against a sitting President from South West — Makinde:
Makinde cited the 1999 example when the South-West fielded both Olusegun Obasanjo and Olu Falae. He said the region can present more than one candidate without undermining its interests.
Read full story: https://punchng.com/why-im-contesting-against-a-sitting-president-from-south-west-makinde/
3. Awaiting-trial inmate escapes during court appearance in Edo:
Osita Thomas, 28, escaped while appearing for trial on conspiracy and stealing charges. The Nigeria Correctional Service has appealed for public assistance to recapture him.
Read full story: https://punchng.com/awaiting-trial-inmate-escapes-during-court-appearance-in-edo/
4. Police arrest man over forged presidency number plate in Abuja:
The Lexus SUV was intercepted in Maitama with a concealed plate bearing the inscription “PRESIDENCY” and registration 10B218 FG. The suspect allegedly impersonated a permanent secretary in the Office of the SGF.
Read full story: https://punchng.com/police-arrest-man-over-forged-presidency-number-plate-in-abuja/
5. Paramilitary recruitment: Shortlisted candidates face mandatory drug tests
The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board said the portal will open from October 28 to November 13. Candidates must obtain a drug-free certificate from the NDLEA before collecting appointment letters.
Read full story: https://punchng.com/paramilitary-recruitment-shortlisted-candidates-face-mandatory-drug-tests/
6. FG proposes March 2027 for UTME, April–July for NECO, WAEC, others
The UTME is proposed for March 15–25, NECO from April 1 to May 14, and WAEC from May 11 to June 18. The plan aims to enable tertiary admissions to begin by September 2027.
Read full story: https://punchng.com/fg-proposes-march-for-2027-utme-april-july-for-neco-waec-others/