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Senate in Abuja Extends 2025 Federal Budget Implementation Timeline

Lawmakers approve extension amid concerns over incomplete projects; opposition warns of fiscal discipline risks

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Lawmakers approve extension amid concerns over incomplete projects; opposition warns of fiscal discipline risks

The Senate in Abuja has once again approved an extension for the implementation of the 2025 federal budget, taking the decision during plenary on Thursday, 11 June. The move comes as several capital projects funded under the budget remain unfinished, prompting lawmakers to prolong spending authority for ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

The extension was endorsed following deliberations led by Senate leadership, who cited widespread delays in project execution as at June. Senators noted that many MDAs had been unable to complete key initiatives due to procurement bottlenecks and disruptions in cash releases, making it necessary to grant additional time for utilisation of appropriated funds.

This latest extension has significant implications for Nigeria’s public finance management. Budget rollovers have become more frequent in recent years, raising questions over the effectiveness of the annual appropriation cycle. With inflation and naira volatility still affecting government contracts, stakeholders say timely project delivery is crucial to restore public confidence and support economic growth.

While the Senate majority supported the move, some opposition senators expressed concern that repeated extensions could undermine fiscal discipline. They called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to address systemic delays and strengthen oversight of MDAs’ spending. “We cannot continue this pattern every year without consequences,” one opposition lawmaker cautioned during debate.

With this approval, federal ministries now have a longer window to complete ongoing projects funded under the 2025 budget. The Senate urged all MDAs to expedite implementation and ensure value for money, warning that further delays would attract closer scrutiny from National Assembly committees.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/886958-again-senate-extends-the-2025-federal-budget.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

NCAA Launches Probe Into Asaba Aircraft Roadway Landing Incident

Aviation authority begins investigation after plane lands on public road in Delta State, raises safety concerns

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June 11, 2026

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Aviation authority begins investigation after plane lands on public road in Delta State, raises safety concerns

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has commenced an official investigation into the unusual landing of an aircraft on a public roadway in Asaba, Delta State, on Thursday. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, has sparked concern among stakeholders about air safety protocols and enforcement in the country.

According to initial reports, the aircraft made an unscheduled landing on a major road within Asaba metropolis. Eyewitnesses described seeing the plane come to a halt amid surprised motorists and pedestrians, but there were no reported injuries or casualties as at press time. NCAA officials arrived at the scene shortly after to secure the area and begin preliminary inquiries.

This incident has drawn attention to Nigeria’s aviation safety standards, particularly regarding flight operations near populated urban areas. Airspace regulation is a recurring issue in Nigeria’s aviation sector, especially given previous incidents involving runway incursions and emergency landings. The NCAA’s response is being closely watched by both industry professionals and residents who expressed concern over possible lapses that could endanger lives.

An NCAA spokesperson confirmed that a comprehensive probe is underway to determine the circumstances leading to the event. “We are treating this as a serious safety matter and will examine all relevant factors before releasing our findings,” the spokesperson said in a written statement. No opposition or external aviation experts have issued formal comments as at Thursday evening.

The outcome of this investigation is expected to inform future policy measures aimed at preventing similar occurrences. The NCAA said its final report would be made public and promised that any parties found culpable would face appropriate sanctions under Nigerian civil aviation regulations.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/887026-air-safety-agency-begins-probe-of-asaba-roadway-landing.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Tinubu to Address Nigerians Nationwide on Democracy Day, Presidency Confirms

President’s live broadcast scheduled for Friday amid public calls for reforms and remembrance of June 12 significance

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June 11, 2026

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President’s live broadcast scheduled for Friday amid public calls for reforms and remembrance of June 12 significance

President Bola Tinubu will address the nation in a live broadcast on Friday, marking this year’s Democracy Day celebrations across Nigeria. The announcement comes as the country prepares to commemorate June 12, a day recognised for its pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic history and a public holiday nationwide.

According to the presidency, the address will be broadcast from Abuja and is expected to focus on the state of the nation, ongoing reforms, and government’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions. This yearly presidential speech has become tradition since June 12 was officially designated as Democracy Day in honour of the annulled 1993 elections widely considered Nigeria’s freest poll.

Democracy Day serves as a reminder of the struggles that led to civilian rule after years of military dictatorship. Many Nigerians are looking forward to President Tinubu’s message against a backdrop of economic hardship, security challenges and heightened expectations for reforms promised by his administration. Civil society groups and opposition parties have already called on government to use the occasion to recommit to electoral transparency, justice sector improvements and policies addressing poverty and youth unemployment.

While details of Tinubu’s planned remarks have not been released as at Thursday evening, sources within Aso Rock say the speech will touch on national unity and highlight progress achieved since his assumption of office. The main opposition parties—PDP and LP—have urged government to back up rhetoric with concrete actions that improve livelihoods and protect civil liberties.

The president’s speech will be aired on national television and radio stations from 7:00 am. Nigerians are expected to participate in various commemorative activities across states as part of the Democracy Day programme.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/887025-democracy-day-tinubu-to-address-nigerians-friday.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

EFCC Arrests Aviation Security Officer, Two Others Over Alleged ₦4.4bn Gold Smuggling Attempt at Lagos Airport

Commission says suspects tried to ferry undeclared gold out of Nigeria; investigation ongoing as agency vows prosecution

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16 minutes ago

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June 11, 2026

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Commission says suspects tried to ferry undeclared gold out of Nigeria; investigation ongoing as agency vows prosecution

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested an aviation security officer along with two accomplices for allegedly attempting to smuggle gold valued at ₦4.4 billion through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Thursday. According to the anti-graft agency, the suspects were apprehended during a routine security check at the airport while trying to move the gold out of the country without proper declaration.

EFCC officials disclosed that the arrest followed a tip-off about suspicious movements involving airport staff and passengers at one of the terminals. The officers intercepted the suspects with several kilograms of gold concealed in their luggage, which they failed to declare to customs and other relevant authorities as required by Nigerian law.

This incident comes at a time when government has been tightening controls on mineral exports due to concerns over revenue losses from illegal mining and smuggling activities. The seizure underscores persistent challenges facing Nigeria’s efforts to regulate its solid minerals sector and secure more foreign exchange earnings from legal exports.

An EFCC spokesperson confirmed that all three suspects are currently in custody and will be charged after investigations are concluded. “We are committed to curbing economic sabotage and prosecuting all those involved,” the spokesperson said in a statement issued on Thursday. Attempts to reach the suspects’ legal representatives were unsuccessful as at press time.

The commission has indicated it will collaborate with other agencies, including Customs and airport authorities, to strengthen monitoring and enforcement measures around airports nationwide. Industry stakeholders say stricter oversight is needed as illegal mineral exports continue to undermine Nigeria’s economic prospects.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/887017-efcc-arrests-aviation-security-officer-two-others-over-alleged-attempt-to-smuggle-gold-worth-n4-4bn.html

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