The Report — Breaking News May 8, 2026

By Abigail Iyade GBI&I MEDIA May 08, 2026

Nigeria’s May 8 headlines highlight Tinubu’s nomination, Jonathan’s possible comeback, and Mamman’s fraud conviction. The naira remains under pressure, while APC waives Tinubu’s screening. Globally, Russia escalates war in Ukraine, WHO monitors a hantavirus outbreak, and IMF warns of slowed African growth. Entertainment buzz surrounds the World Cup anthem and Arsenal’s Champions League hopes. The Community Spotlight focuses on grassroots political movements clarifying identity.

Good morning. Here are the headlines shaping our today’s world.

Nigeria

Tinubu’s Nomination Forms Submitted

Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside APC governors Hope Uzodinma (Imo) and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), submitted President Bola Tinubu’s nomination forms to the APC National Working Committee in Abuja. The move confirmed that the party will adopt direct primaries for the 2027 elections.

APC supporters hailed the submission as a show of unity, while critics argued that direct primaries could deepen internal divisions.

Jonathan Hints at 2027 Presidential Run

Former President Goodluck Jonathan told supporters in Abuja, “I have heard you”, promising wide consultations before deciding whether to contest in 2027.

His loyalists celebrated the possibility of a comeback, while analysts questioned whether Jonathan could build a viable coalition in today’s political climate.

Ex‑Minister Convicted for ₦33.8bn Fraud

The former Power Minister Saleh Mamman was convicted by an Abuja High Court for fraud and money laundering involving ₦33.8 billion earmarked for hydroelectric projects.

Anti‑corruption groups praised the conviction as a landmark case, while critics demanded broader accountability across ministries.

Economy

APC Waives Screening for Tinubu

The APC National Working Committee announced that President Tinubu would be exempted from screening ahead of the primaries.

Supporters saw it as respect for the incumbent, while opposition voices criticized it as undermining internal democracy.

Naira Under Pressure

The naira traded at ₦1,385 in official markets and ₦1,515 in parallel markets, reflecting continued FX shortages and oil market volatility.

Traders lamented rising costs, while economists warned of worsening inflation and urged urgent monetary reforms.

Global News

Russia Escalates Strikes in Kharkiv

Russian forces launched drone and missile attacks on residential districts in Kharkiv, Ukraine, escalating the ongoing conflict.

International observers condemned the strikes, while humanitarian groups warned of worsening civilian casualties.

WHO Confirms Hantavirus Cruise Outbreak

WHO confirmed a hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship, with three patients evacuated to the Netherlands. Officials stressed it is “not the next COVID” but warned infections may rise.

Passengers expressed fear, while health experts urged calm, noting hantavirus is less transmissible than COVID‑19.

IMF Warns of Africa Growth Slowdown

On May 8, 2026, the IMF warned that global shocks and regional instability could slow African economies in 2026.

Economists urged diversification, while governments defended ongoing infrastructure investments.

Entertainment & Sports

Shakira & Burna Boy Tease World Cup Anthem

On May 8, 2026, Shakira and Burna Boy teased their official FIFA World Cup anthem “Dai Dai,” set for release on May 14.

Fans expressed excitement, while critics debated whether the song could match past iconic anthems.

Arsenal Prepares for PSG Clash

Arsenal trained ahead of their Champions League semi‑final clash with PSG, with manager Mikel Arteta urging his team to “make a statement.”

Fans expressed optimism, while pundits warned of PSG’s formidable challenge.

Community Spotlight — Community Meets Opportunity

Obidient Movement Clarifies Identity

The Obidient Movement issued a statement distancing itself from parallel groups claiming its name, warning against confusion over its leadership and mission.

Supporters praised the clarification, while critics argued that fragmentation could weaken grassroots influence.

Editorial Note

Nigeria’s political scene is heating up with 2027 ambitions, but questions of credibility and internal democracy remain. Economic pressures continue to weigh on households, while global crises threaten to compound domestic instability. The Community Spotlight reminds us that grassroots clarity is vital in an era of political fragmentation.