The week ahead - Lights out
Nigeria faced power outages, economic struggles, and a canceled oil deal, while Ghana's president strengthened regional ties.
This week, lights went out in many quarters—but in Nigeria, some members of the Force tried to switch theirs back on forcefully. Manufacturers braced for fresh financial burdens, small businesses couldn't hold but fold, the state oil firm pulled the plug on a crude deal, and a former ruling party stalwart switched political homes. Across the border, Ghana’s president courted closer ties with neighbours while the rest of Africa simmered.
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What we’re following this week
Violent standoff erupts between Nigerian Air Force and Ikeja Electric over $2.5 million unpaid electricity debt.
Nasir El-Rufai leaves APC for SDP, citing the party's departure from founding principles.
NNPC suspends naira-for-crude deals with local refineries, potentially driving up petrol prices and disrupting the foreign exchange market.
About 7.2 million Nigerian MSMEs shut down between 2023 and 2024 due to harsh economic conditions.
Nigeria's manufacturers criticise the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria Amendment Act, 2023, for imposing uncapped annual charges.
President John Mahama aims to boost regional trade by addressing Ghana-Mali barriers and strengthening ties with Burkina Faso.
DR Congo offers a $5 million bounty for three M23 rebel leaders amid escalating violence and regional instability.