This week, Nigeria’s ambition continues to dance with global scrutiny, as industrial momentum collides with diplomatic pressure.

The headlines are heavy: a $235 million cocaine seizure at Lagos Port, an arrest warrant for a former petroleum minister, and a violent disruption at the Museum of West African Arts. Yet beneath the noise, signals of transformation persist. Nigeria’s oil production, a major source of foreign exchange earnings for the government, is rebounding amid push to significantly increase production.

Meanwhile, the nation’s rich cultural landscape continues to assert global influence through theatre and Afrobeat legacies. This week’s 234Digest, slightly behind the usual Monday schedule, brings you a comprehensive briefing on these vital developments shaping Nigeria’s trajectory.

As always, we track these shifts not just for what they say, but for what they mean.

Let’s dive in.

Samuel Okocha, Editor 234Digest here.

Today’s briefs

Nigeria pursues diplomatic path with the U.S amid tensions

Nigeria is seeking a diplomatic resolution to frayed relations with the United States after former President Donald Trump threatened military action over what he termed as continued Islamist militant violence targeting Christian communities.

Last week at a press conference in Abuja followed by an inter on Sky News on Monday night, Information Minister Mohammed Idris confirmed ongoing diplomatic communications, emphasizing the complexity of Nigeria’s security challenges and calling for greater international understanding.

Newly appointed Army Chief Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu pledged to intensify operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the northeast, with improved troop welfare and logistics following President Bola Tinubu’s directive.

UK issues travel advisory against 21 Nigerian states amid escalating insecurity

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a travel advisory warning British citizens against traveling to 21 Nigerian states due to escalating security concerns that include kidnappings, violent crime, and inter communal violence.

The advisory warns against all travel to northern states including Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara as high risk areas, highlighting heightened threats from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa, especially near transport hubs and religious sites.

In the south, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Abia, Anambra, Imo and non-reverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Cross River. It warns against all travel to reverine areas, accessible only by boat, in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River.

Abuja and Lagos are cited for increases in violent crime and protests. The advisory also cautions against financial scams, fake fertility treatment schemes, and unlicensed alcoholic drinks containing methanol.

$235 million cocaine seizure at Lagos port sparks international probe

Nigeria's National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has seized 1,000kg of cocaine at Lagos' Tincan Port, marking one of the country's largest-ever drug busts.

NDLEA is collaborating with the US Drug Enforcement Administration and the UK's National Crime Agency to dismantle the trafficking network behind the shipment. The agency didn't disclose shipment details, but such large hauls often involve complex international networks.

Nigeria has intensified anti-narcotics efforts, targeting both local and transnational syndicates.

Anti-corruption efforts target ex-petroleum minister

Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued an arrest warrant for former Petroleum Minister Timipre Sylva over allegations of conspiracy and misappropriation of $14.86 million tied to a refinery project.

The funds were part of an investment by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited. Sylva, who served as petroleum minister from 2019 to 2023, has not publicly responded to the allegations.

Nigeria’s oil sector rebounds amid high theft losses

Nigeria's oil production has rebounded to 1.83 million barrels per day, despite significant losses from oil theft and pipeline vandalism, estimated at $300 billion.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) aims to increase output to 2 million barrels daily by 2027 and 3 million by 2030, driven by new laws and fiscal incentives introduced by President Bola Tinubu.

The NNPC's ambitious targets align with Nigeria's goal to bolster its position as a major oil producer, leveraging its vast reserves to drive economic growth.

Nigerian stocks rebound sharply after capital gains tax softening

Nigerian stocks surged in their biggest rally in nearly two years, rebounding from a 15-year low after authorities eased a planned capital gains tax policy.

The NGX All-Share Index rose 2.9%, the largest advance since January 2024, following a 5% plunge the previous Tuesday, as investors sold off shares ahead of an initially proposed 30% capital gains tax to take effect in 2026.

The market’s rebound signals renewed investor confidence, though caution persists amid ongoing geopolitical and policy uncertainties.

Luxury housing market booms amid severe shortage

Lagos and Abuja’s skylines are wearing new looks with a surge of high-end developments, as a weaker naira offers opportunities to Nigerians abroad and locals looking to preserve their wealth amid widespread housing deficits.

Over 135 homes are valued above $1 million, with nearly 1,400 more projected by 2029, according to a Bloomberg news report, citing data from property intelligence firm Estate Intel.

Opening of Museum of West African Arts in Benin City suspended after violent disruption

The Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) postponed its scheduled opening following an attack by armed protesters opposing the museum’s management, which is seen as disconnected from the Oba of Benin and local cultural authorities.

Guests at a private preview, including foreign dignitaries, were forced to take shelter and escorted out during the disruption. The museum, justified as a modern and contemporary West African art institution, remains embroiled in local tensions over heritage and ownership.

Lagos International Theatre Festival elevates African stories on the world stage

From November 10 to 16, the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) is bringing authentic African narratives to a global audience.

Founded by Bolanle Austen-Peters, the festival champions storytelling rooted in African experiences, with artists contributing to its dynamic cultural showcase. Austen-Peters told the BBC that the festival aims to shift perceptions by sharing Africa’s stories through local lenses, reinforcing Lagos’s role as a creative hub.

Lagos honours Fela Kuti with expanded Afrobeat exhibition

An expanded exhibition celebrating Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti opened in Lagos, featuring memorabilia, live performances, and educational programming. The event underscores Lagos’s enduring cultural relevance and globally recognized creative scene.

Words of wisdom: "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity"—Albert Einstein

Photo of the day

And that’s it for today. Many thanks for joining me on today’s round up. Until next week Monday when the next dispatch arrives have a fantastic week.

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