Nigeria News (Standard)
BudgIT Flags 2026 National Budget as ‘Ambitious but Unviable’
Civic tech group cautions federal government on revenue assumptions, urges focus on realistic fiscal planning
Civic tech group cautions federal government on revenue assumptions, urges focus on realistic fiscal planning
BudgIT, a prominent civic technology organisation, has described the proposed 2026 national budget as ambitious but unviable, raising concerns about the federal government’s revenue projections and capacity to implement planned programmes. The group made this observation in Abuja on Monday, 15 June.
According to BudgIT, while the scale of the 2026 budget reflects a desire to drive economic growth and address Nigeria’s developmental challenges, the underlying assumptions about revenue generation may not align with current realities. The organisation pointed out that past budgets have suffered from poor implementation due to over-optimistic forecasts and limited actual inflows.
The group stressed that many Nigerians are yet to feel the impact of previous budgets, especially in critical sectors like education, health, and infrastructure. BudgIT advised government to prioritise fiscal discipline and base its expenditure plans on realistic estimates from oil receipts, taxes, and other sources.
Although no official response from federal authorities was available as at press time, BudgIT’s position is likely to fuel further debate among policy experts and lawmakers about the viability of government spending targets. Stakeholders have long called for greater transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s budgeting process.
With inflation remaining high and the naira still under pressure against major currencies, analysts say effective budget execution will require careful monitoring of both revenue collection and project delivery across all ministries. The National Assembly is expected to commence its review of the budget proposal in the coming weeks.
Nigeria News (Standard)
British Council Launches Production Phase of Film Lab Africa in Lagos After Major Matchmaking Event
Programme brings together writers, producers and mentors as accelerator initiative enters key stage in Nigeria’s creative sector
Programme brings together writers, producers and mentors as accelerator initiative enters key stage in Nigeria’s creative sector
The British Council has officially moved Film Lab Africa Phase Two into its production phase, following a major matchmaking event held at the council’s Lagos office on 8 May 2026. The event brought together selected writers, creative producers, mentors and stakeholders to facilitate collaboration and accelerate project development within Nigeria’s dynamic film industry.
According to the organisers, the matchmaking session was designed to pair emerging talents with experienced industry figures, thereby creating new opportunities for cross-disciplinary partnerships. Attendees engaged in one-on-one sessions, group discussions and networking activities aimed at strengthening connections within the sector. The transition into the production phase marks a significant milestone for the accelerator programme, which has focused on capacity-building and talent development since its inception.
Film Lab Africa is part of a broader British Council initiative to support the growth of Nigeria’s creative economy by nurturing homegrown talent and providing access to resources and mentorship. Industry observers say the programme comes at a crucial time as Nollywood continues to expand its global reach while grappling with challenges such as funding gaps, technical capacity and distribution hurdles.
Representatives of the British Council stated that moving into production will allow participants to bring their concepts to life under professional guidance. The council noted that the matchmaking event was well-received by both local and international stakeholders, who praised its focus on practical skills development. No opposition response was provided as at press time.
With production now underway, participants are expected to begin principal photography on their projects in coming weeks. Organisers say they hope this phase will lead to increased visibility for Nigerian filmmakers and contribute positively to the nation’s reputation as a creative powerhouse in Africa.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigerian Army Rescues Widow of Ex-Defence Spokesman in Katsina Operation
Troops intensify offensive against armed groups in Batsari LGA, freeing abducted widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar
Troops intensify offensive against armed groups in Batsari LGA, freeing abducted widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar
The Nigerian Army has rescued the widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar during a recent military offensive against armed men in Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State. The operation, which took place on Monday, saw troops intensify efforts to dislodge criminal elements responsible for a series of abductions and attacks across the North-West.
According to military sources, the rescue was part of a broader campaign targeting hideouts used by armed men in rural communities around Batsari. The widow, whose name was not immediately disclosed, had been held captive for an unspecified period before her liberation by security forces. Details on whether any ransom was demanded or paid were not provided as at press time.
Katsina State has witnessed a surge in abductions and violent attacks over the past year, with several communities in Batsari and neighbouring LGAs repeatedly targeted. Security analysts say the ongoing military operations are crucial to restoring confidence among residents and reducing the influence of criminal groups operating across the North-West geopolitical zone.
A senior army officer involved in the operation said, “Our troops will continue to pursue all criminals until every abducted citizen regains freedom and peace returns to Katsina communities.” However, families affected by previous abductions say they remain concerned about the safety of their loved ones still in captivity.
The Nigerian Army said its troops would sustain patrols and intelligence-driven raids across affected areas. Authorities urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comments regarding the latest rescue effort.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NBS Reports Nigeria’s Inflation Rises to 15.93% as Food Prices Surge Nationwide
National Bureau of Statistics attributes increase to higher costs of staple foods, raising concerns for households and policymakers
National Bureau of Statistics attributes increase to higher costs of staple foods, raising concerns for households and policymakers
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate climbed to 15.93 percent in June, according to figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Monday. The agency said the uptick was driven mainly by persistent increases in food prices across states, deepening economic pressure on households nationwide.
The NBS report, published from its Abuja headquarters, showed that both urban and rural dwellers experienced rising costs for essential commodities such as rice, yam, bread, and oil. The latest figure marks a further jump from previous months and signals continued challenges for consumers already grappling with stagnant wages and high unemployment.
Analysts say the new inflation data highlights ongoing structural problems in agriculture and distribution networks. Many Nigerians have seen their purchasing power eroded as food accounts for a significant share of household expenditure. With the naira remaining under pressure against major currencies, import-dependent goods have also become more expensive.
In its statement, the NBS attributed the spike to disruptions in local supply chains and seasonal factors affecting harvests. The agency urged policymakers to prioritise investment in transport infrastructure and market access for farmers as part of wider measures to rein in inflation. No official comment was immediately available from the Ministry of Finance or Central Bank.
Economists warn that without decisive action to stabilise prices, more Nigerians could slip into poverty amid rising costs of living. The NBS is expected to release further breakdowns by sector and state in coming weeks.
British Council Launches Production Phase of Film Lab Africa in Lagos After Major Matchmaking Event
Mohamed Salah Marks 34th Birthday With Historic World Cup Record for Egypt
Nigerian Army Rescues Widow of Ex-Defence Spokesman in Katsina Operation
Cape Verde’s 40-Year-Old Goalkeeper Sets World Cup Record Against Spain
Super Eagles’ World Cup Qualifying Record Remains Unmatched After Spain vs Cape Verde Result
NBS Reports Nigeria’s Inflation Rises to 15.93% as Food Prices Surge Nationwide
Reps Caucus Leader Challenges Oshiomhole on Peter Obi’s Security Record in Anambra
Bandits Kill Prominent Katsina Businessman After ₦5 Million Ransom Payment in Dandume LGA
Police Raid Terrorists’ Hideout in Abuja, Arrest Four Suspects and Destroy Camp
Cape Verde Set New African Record Against Spain at 2026 FIFA World Cup
Environment Minister Urges Increased Investment in Nigeria’s Green Economy Ahead of Global Climate Summit
Moniepoint Graduates Second DreamDevs Cohort in Lagos to Strengthen Nigeria’s Engineering Workforce
Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
FG Launches $500m Abuja Formula 1 Bid, Targets Africa’s First Grand Prix Since 1993
Fresh Romance Rumours Trail Lando Norris as Alix Earle Sparks Drama in Monaco
Why More Nigerians Are Searching for Casino Bonuses—and What You Should Know Before Claiming
Ụlọ Ọrụ Nigeria Kwupụtara Nsogbu Nchekwa na Ụtụ Isi N’agbanyeghị Ịrị Elu Obi Ike Ahịa
Somali Referee Omar Artan Blocked From US World Cup Over Visa Row, Misses Dream Debut
Federal Government Launches Mining Grants for Research and Exploration Across Nigeria
