Video - Recession, inflation make for a difficult year 2017 for Nigeria

2017 been a topsy-turvy year for the Nigerian economy. Reeling from the effects of recession and record inflation rate coupled with severe foreign exchange shortages, Nigerians had it tough in 2017. The economy is now out of recession and on the path of growth, albeit very slowly. But people are more optimistic. Here is Deji Badmus with a highlight of what Africa's largest economy has been through this year.

Video - Nigerian entrepreneur makes dessert themed bath, body products

Blondie Okpuzor makes BathKandy - a handcrafted, food-inspired, bath and body store in Nigeria. The skincare range is made from natural and organic ingredients that target common skin problems and the products are moulded in the shape and look of cupcakes, chocolate bars, lollipops and doughnuts.

Gunmen attack church on New Years eve in Nigeria - 14 reported dead

Gunmen killed at least 14 churchgoers returning from midnight services on Monday in Nigeria’s Rivers State, a police source said, after the latest violence to hit the oil-rich region.

“The gunmen opened fire on a set of worshippers at about 12.30am on Monday,” said Ugochi Olugbo, a relative of one of the victims who were attending a New Year’s Eve service.

The Nigeria Independent reported gunmen operated at two different locations, the Kirigani and Oboh axis of Aligu, Omoku, in a coordinated attack on Christians returning from church services.

“Fourteen persons died on the spot, while 12 who sustained gunshot wounds were rushed to the hospital and are receiving medical attention,” said a police source who asked to remain anonymous.

Rivers State police public relations officer Nnamdi Omoni could not confirm the number of casualties. “The commissioner of police, Ahmed Zaki, has also launched a manhunt for the bandits to ensure they are arrested and prosecuted,” Omoni said.

“The deputy commissioner of police in charge of operation and other tactical heads have been mobilised there to restore peace.”

Guardian

Video - Nigeria's fuel scarcity gradually fading out

The long lines at petrol stations in Nigeria are gradually thinning out as normalcy begins to return in the distribution of products to petrol stations. Africa's largest oil producer has been battling severe petrol scarcity over short fall in supply to filling stations. But the State run Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, has ramped up supply and the situations is beginning to show small sign of improvement.

Video - Record low sales for traders in Nigeria in run-up to Christmas

As Christmas approaches, many families in Nigeria are struggling to celebrate the holidays, with the country just emerging from a recession this year and majority of civil servants facing continued salary delays. Traders in the capital city say business is slow and that they are expecting subdued festive shopping this year. Here's Alexandria Majalla with more details.