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December 25, 2025

Education, News, Trending

University Lecturers Get 40% Pay Rise As FG, ASUU Seal New Pact

The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have finally reached a consensus on the long-awaited renegotiation of the 2009 university agreement, bringing months of discussions to a close.

ASUU announced the development in a statement released on its official Facebook page on Wednesday, revealing that the agreement was finalised on December 23, 2025. The new deal is expected to take effect from January 1, 2026, and will be subject to review every three years.

According to the union, the renegotiated agreement focuses on improving the welfare of academic staff and addressing the persistent funding challenges facing public universities across the country. ASUU noted that the aim of the pact is to restore stability and strengthen Nigeria’s higher education system.

One of the most notable outcomes of the negotiations is a 40 per cent increase in salaries for university lecturers. The agreement also introduces enhanced pension benefits, particularly for senior academics. Under the new arrangement, professors who retire at the statutory age of 70 will receive pensions equivalent to their final annual salary, a move ASUU described as a significant boost to retirement security and dignity.

The agreement further outlines a revamped funding structure for public universities, providing targeted financial support for research, libraries, laboratories, equipment acquisition and staff training. In addition, plans are underway to establish a National Research Council to oversee research and innovation nationwide, with funding set at no less than one per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.

Other key provisions include measures to reinforce university autonomy and protect academic freedom. The deal also affirms that leadership positions such as deans and provosts will be filled through elections limited to professors, in line with ASUU’s long-standing demands.

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Addressing concerns over past industrial disputes, the agreement guarantees that no academic staff member will face sanctions or victimisation for participating in previous strikes or protests.

While welcoming the successful conclusion of the talks, ASUU urged the Federal Government to ensure timely and full implementation of all agreed terms. The union also called on the government to engage other university-based unions in similar negotiations, stressing that broad-based dialogue is essential for achieving lasting peace and progress within the Nigerian university system.

Lifestyle, News, Trending

Christmas 2025 Gifts: 10 Thoughtful Gift Ideas Nigerian Children Will Love

On Christmas morning in Nigeria, there’s a special kind of magic that can’t be bought in stores.

It’s the sound of children waking up earlier than usual, whispering excitedly to one another. It’s the rustle of wrapping paper, the sudden shout of “Mummy, Daddy, come and see!” It’s the sparkle in young eyes that makes adults forget fuel prices, school fees, and the long year that has passed.

For Nigerian children, Christmas isn’t just a holiday—it’s a memory-making season.

Years later, they may forget what they ate on Christmas Day, but they will always remember how they felt: loved, seen, and celebrated.

Choosing the right Christmas gift is not about how expensive it is.

It’s about joy, imagination, learning, and moments that stay in a child’s heart long after December ends.

If you’re wondering what to give children this Christmas 2025, here are 10 thoughtful, exciting, and practical gift ideas Nigerian kids will truly love.

1. Educational Tablets or Learning Pads

In today’s digital world, learning and play often go hand in hand.

Educational tablets designed for children come preloaded with alphabet games, maths exercises, puzzles, and storytelling apps.

They help children learn while having fun—and parents love them too.

Perfect for both urban and rural homes, these devices encourage early learning without turning education into punishment.

2. Bicycles

Few Christmas gifts beat the joy of a brand-new bicycle.

From quiet streets to estate roads, a bicycle gives children freedom, confidence, and physical activity. It’s also a gift that encourages outdoor play—something many parents wish their kids did more of.

Add knee and elbow guards, and you’ve given a gift that promotes health and happiness.

3. Storybooks and Nigerian Children’s Literature

A good book can travel further than any holiday trip.

Storybooks—especially those written by Nigerian authors—help children see themselves in stories, understand values, and develop imagination. From folk tales to modern adventures, books help build language skills and emotional intelligence.

A Christmas book today could inspire a writer tomorrow.

4. Toy Cars, Dolls, and Action Figures

Classic toys never go out of style.

Toy cars, dolls, and action figures allow children to create their own worlds, stories, and characters. They promote creativity, role-playing, and social interaction—especially when kids play together.

These toys are affordable, widely available, and always a hit on Christmas morning.

5. Building Blocks and Construction Sets

Children love to build—and break—and build again.

Construction toys help develop problem-solving skills, hand-eye coordination, and patience.

Whether it’s simple blocks for toddlers or advanced sets for older kids, these gifts encourage imagination and logical thinking.

Plus, they keep children engaged for hours.

6. Art and Craft Kits

Some children express themselves better with colours than with words.

Art kits containing crayons, colouring books, paints, sketch pads, or craft materials allow kids to explore their creativity freely.

These gifts nurture talent, boost confidence, and provide calm, screen-free entertainment.

You might just be encouraging Nigeria’s next great artist.

7. Musical Toys or Beginner Instruments

Music is woven into Nigerian culture—from church hymns to festive songs.

Toy keyboards, drums, xylophones, or beginner guitars introduce children to rhythm and sound.

They help improve concentration and emotional expression while making Christmas even louder and livelier.

Yes, parents may hear noise—but it’s the sound of growth.

8. Board Games and Family Games

Christmas is one of the few times families slow down and gather.

Board games like Ludo, Scrabble, chess, or locally inspired games create moments of laughter, competition, and bonding. They teach patience, teamwork, and strategic thinking—without screens.

Sometimes, the best gift is shared time.

9. School Bags and Cute Stationery

Practical gifts can still be exciting.

A colourful school bag filled with notebooks, pencils, rulers, and lunch boxes makes children feel prepared and confident for the new term. It shows care, foresight, and support for their education.

It’s a gift that keeps giving long after Christmas ends.

10. Clothes, Shoes, and Christmas Outfits

Every Nigerian child deserves to “shine” on Christmas Day.

New clothes, sandals, sneakers, or festive outfits give children confidence and pride.

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Whether it’s for church, family visits, or Christmas photos, this gift makes children feel special and included.

Sometimes, looking good is part of feeling loved.

Merry Christmas

At the heart of Christmas is not the gift itself, but the message behind it: you matter.

In Nigeria, where resilience is learned early, Christmas gifts remind children that joy is still possible, dreams are still valid, and love is always worth celebrating.

This Christmas 2025, whether your gift is big or small, expensive or simple, give it with intention—and watch it turn into a memory that lasts a lifetime.

Feature, Lifestyle, News, Trending

Christmas Day 2025: 25 Beautiful Messages and Wishes for Friends and Family

December 25 has finally arrived.

Across homes, streets, churches, and hearts, a familiar warmth fills the air. From the early sound of Christmas hymns to the aroma of festive meals simmering in kitchens, today is more than just a date on the calendar—it is a moment of joy, reflection, gratitude, and love.

Christmas Day 2025 stands as a reminder of hope renewed, faith strengthened, and bonds rekindled. It is a day Christians across the world commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, while families and friends come together to celebrate love, kindness, and togetherness. In Nigeria and beyond, laughter echoes louder, prayers feel deeper, and wishes carry more meaning.

As tradition demands, Christmas is also a season of heartfelt messages—words that travel faster than wrapped gifts and last longer than festive meals. A simple message can light up a smile, mend a broken spirit, or make someone feel remembered and cherished.

To help you spread the joy, warmth, and magic of Christmas, we have carefully curated a refreshed collection of Christmas wishes and messages for 2025—perfect for friends, family members, and loved ones.

Whether you’re sending a text, posting on social media, or writing a card, these messages are crafted to make hearts glow.

2025 Christmas Messages and Wishes

1. May this Christmas shine brighter than any before it, filling your heart with peace, joy, and beautiful moments you’ll treasure forever.

2. Merry Christmas to you! Wishing you good health, happiness, and calm days ahead as we step into a new year. With love, from me.

3. As the year draws to a close, may gratitude fill your heart for every sweet memory. May faith, peace, and serenity rest upon you this Christmas and beyond.

4. May this festive season bring divine protection, good health, and abundant blessings to you and your household. Have a truly warm Christmas.

5. May your home overflow with laughter, surprises, thoughtful gifts, and heartfelt greetings. Embrace the joy of Christmas—it was made for you.

6. May God’s divine love descend upon your home and turn it into a place of peace, comfort, and prosperity this Christmas season.

7. May love find you, happiness surround you, and joy stay with you—not just today, but always. Merry Christmas from the depths of my heart.

8. Wishing you a joyful Christmas and a year ahead filled with fulfillment, peace, and unending blessings.

9. May every dream on your Christmas wish list find its way into reality. Have a magical, blissful, and unforgettable holiday.

10. Let this Christmas create memories that time can never erase. Enjoy the laughter, the love, and the magic of the season with your family.

11. May God’s unconditional love guide and protect you today and always. Here’s to a season of blessings and a future filled with hope.

12. The season of joy, giving, and togetherness is here. Open your heart to the beauty this Christmas brings. Merry Christmas to you!

13. May this Christmas deliver everything your heart desires and everything your life truly needs. Wishing you joy and fulfillment.

14. May happiness wrap itself around you today. Enjoy the laughter, the love, and the warmth of being surrounded by those who matter most.

15. Wishing you a Christmas filled with joy, good cheer, and moments so special they remain unforgettable.

16. May you feel loved, cherished, and celebrated today and throughout the year ahead. Warm Christmas greetings and best wishes for the New Year.

17. Merry Christmas! May God bless your life abundantly and fill your days with purpose, joy, and beautiful memories.

18. Wishing you the most wonderful Christmas ever. May God guide you to become the best version of yourself. You are deeply loved and appreciated.

19. On this beautiful Christmas day, may happiness surround you and blessings overflow in your life. Enjoy every moment and create lasting memories.

20. May this festive season bring good fortune, sound health, and endless joy to you and your family. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

21. May Christmas close this year with laughter and open the door to a brighter, fresher, and more hopeful New Year.

22. In this season of giving, slow down and savor life’s simple blessings. May your heart be full and your wishes come true. Happy Holidays!

Christmas Wishes for Friends

23. Dear friend, may this Christmas bring you laughter, joy, and memories you’ll smile about for years to come. Merry Christmas!

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24. May this holy season surround you with miracles of love, warmth, and happiness. May the beauty of Christmas remain with you always.

25. I’m grateful to God for the gift of your friendship—today and always. May the glow of Christmas candles brighten your life. Happy Holidays, dear friend.

From all of us at DailyOracle, we wish you a Merry Christmas 2025 filled with love, laughter, peace, and unforgettable moments. 🎄✨

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