Here is a roundup of the major stories making headlines in Nigeria and around the world this morning, Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
Nigeria
Kaduna abduction confirmed after earlier denial
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the abduction of over 100 Christian worshippers in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, after earlier remarks created uncertainty about the incident. The Inspector-General of Police has deployed tactical and intelligence assets to the area to rescue the victims and restore calm.
NCC approves satellite broadband licences for Amazon Kuiper
The Nigerian Communications Commission has approved licences for Amazon’s Project Kuiper and other providers to offer satellite broadband services in Nigeria, a move expected to improve internet access, especially in underserved rural areas.
ADC opposes plan to release suspected bandits
The African Democratic Congress has criticised a reported government plan to release dozens of suspected bandits, warning that such a move could worsen insecurity and undermine public confidence in the justice system.
Anthony Joshua crash trial adjourned
The driver involved in the fatal crash that killed two members of boxer Anthony Joshua’s team has been arraigned in court, with the case adjourned to February 25, 2026, for continuation of proceedings.
Nigeria, Cape Verde strengthen diaspora engagement
Officials from Nigeria and Cape Verde have met to share best practices on diaspora engagement, focusing on remittances, skills transfer and international cooperation.
Global News
Japan sentences Shinzo Abe assassin to life imprisonment
A Japanese court has sentenced Tetsuya Yamagami to life in prison for the 2022 assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, bringing a major chapter in the case to a close.
Russian attacks hit Kyiv power supply
Fresh Russian attacks on Kyiv have knocked out electricity for more than one million residents, intensifying pressure on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure as winter deepens.
Train derailment kills driver in Spain
A commuter train derailed near Barcelona after heavy rain damaged the tracks, killing the driver and injuring several passengers, authorities have confirmed.
Poland to tighten residency rules for Ukrainians
Poland has announced plans to end special residency protections for Ukrainians fleeing the war, transitioning them to standard immigration rules by March.
US seizes Venezuela-linked oil tanker
The United States has seized a Venezuela-linked oil tanker in the Caribbean, escalating enforcement of sanctions tied to illicit oil exports.
Business & Economy
IMF upgrades Nigeria’s 2026 growth outlook
The International Monetary Fund has revised Nigeria’s 2026 growth forecast upward, citing stronger private-sector activity and improved macroeconomic management.
Naira holds steady in forex market
The naira remained relatively stable against the dollar in official and parallel markets on Tuesday, supported by continued Central Bank interventions and forex inflows.
That’s your morning briefing. More updates as the day unfolds on thewatch.ng.
