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Nigeria News (Standard)

Gunmen Attack NIPSS in Jos, Kill Two as Security Agencies Launch Investigation

Armed men stormed National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies premises on Tuesday; police intensify patrols across Plateau State

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Armed men stormed National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies premises on Tuesday; police intensify patrols across Plateau State

Armed men attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Tuesday, killing two individuals during the incident. The assault occurred within the institute’s premises, a location known for hosting top-level policy formulation and research in Nigeria.

Witnesses said the gunmen gained entry into the NIPSS grounds in the early hours of Tuesday, firing sporadically and causing panic among staff and residents nearby. The identities of those killed have not yet been officially disclosed, but security sources confirmed that two persons lost their lives before the attackers fled the scene.

The attack on NIPSS—a federal institution central to Nigeria’s public policy and leadership training—has raised fresh concerns about insecurity in Plateau State and North-Central Nigeria. In recent years, the state has witnessed repeated attacks by unidentified armed groups targeting rural communities and government facilities.

Security agencies have since cordoned off the area while launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Plateau State Police Command said officers had been deployed to increase patrols around Kuru and neighbouring areas. “We are working to apprehend those behind this attack,” a senior police official stated on Tuesday afternoon.

NIPSS management is yet to issue an official statement as at press time. The Plateau State government has also not commented on the incident. Meanwhile, residents are calling for urgent government action to safeguard strategic national institutions. Further updates are expected as investigations progress.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/888144-gunmen-attack-nigerias-foremost-policy-institute-nipss-kill-two.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

World Bank Ranks Lagos Apapa and Tin Can Ports Among Top 20 Most Improved Globally

Recognition comes as Nigerian ports implement reforms; industry stakeholders urge sustained investment for lasting impact

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Recognition comes as Nigerian ports implement reforms; industry stakeholders urge sustained investment for lasting impact

The World Bank has listed Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports in Lagos among the 20 most improved ports worldwide, according to its latest global ranking released on Tuesday. The report highlighted ongoing reforms and infrastructure upgrades that have enhanced efficiency at the two major Nigerian maritime gateways.

Both Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, located in Lagos State, were recognised for advancements in cargo handling, turnaround time, and implementation of digital processes. The World Bank noted that these improvements have contributed to reducing congestion and boosting operational capacity, a significant development for Nigeria’s import and export sectors.

This recognition is seen as timely by stakeholders in the maritime industry, given longstanding concerns over delays and inefficiencies at Nigerian ports. In recent years, government and port authorities have introduced measures such as electronic call-up systems for trucks, expansion of access roads, and stricter regulatory oversight to address bottlenecks. According to the World Bank’s assessment, these interventions have started yielding measurable results.

While welcoming the World Bank’s acknowledgement, maritime operators have called for further investment to sustain progress. “This is a positive step but more needs to be done in terms of infrastructure renewal and automation,” one industry stakeholder said on Tuesday. There was no immediate official statement from the Nigerian Ports Authority as at press time.

Analysts say continued improvement at Lagos ports could have wider economic benefits by reducing costs for businesses and attracting greater foreign trade. With Nigeria aiming to position itself as a regional logistics hub, attention will remain on how authorities build on these gains in the coming years.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/888193-world-bank-names-apapa-tin-can-among-20-most-improved-ports.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Akwa Ibom Police Command Refutes Skit Maker’s Claim on Governor Eno’s ₦10m Donation to Late Officer’s Family

Police deny social media reports alleging Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno donated ₦10 million to family of slain officer

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Police deny social media reports alleging Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno donated ₦10 million to family of slain officer

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismissed claims circulating on social media that Governor Umo Eno donated ₦10 million to the family of a deceased police officer. The controversy arose after a popular skit maker alleged in a recent post that such a donation had been made by the state government, sparking public debate and sympathy online.

The police, in an official statement issued Tuesday in Uyo, stated unequivocally that no such financial contribution was received from Governor Eno or the state government for the bereaved family. According to the command, the information being spread is false and misleading, and the public should disregard it. The statement also cautioned against using unverified claims to incite sentiments or discredit the efforts of the state government and security agencies.

This incident comes at a time when issues of welfare for security personnel and their families have drawn national attention, especially following cases where officers killed in active service are celebrated online without corresponding institutional support. The purported donation had generated reactions from members of the public, with many calling for greater transparency regarding assistance extended to families of fallen officers.

While addressing the matter, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command emphasised its commitment to supporting officers’ families within available resources and in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. The command further urged content creators and citizens to verify sensitive information before sharing it on social platforms. As at press time, there was no official response from Governor Umo Eno or his aides regarding the viral claim.

The police reiterated their appeal for responsible reportage and assured continued engagement with both media practitioners and community members on issues affecting security personnel in Akwa Ibom.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/888191-police-refute-skit-makers-claim-over-enos-n10m-donation-to-deceased-officers-family.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Lagos-based Cardtonic Launches Full-Service Gift Card Platform for Nigerian Users

New app allows Nigerians to buy and manage local gift cards, expanding options beyond foreign brands

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New app allows Nigerians to buy and manage local gift cards, expanding options beyond foreign brands

Cardtonic, a fintech startup headquartered in Lagos, has announced the evolution of its platform into a comprehensive gift card application tailored for Nigerian users. The company revealed this development on Tuesday, stating that the upgrade now enables customers to purchase and manage local gift cards alongside existing international options.

The transition, which was completed in June 2026, marks a significant shift from Cardtonic’s previous focus on foreign gift card trading. According to the company, Nigerians can now conveniently access digital vouchers for popular local services and retailers directly through the Cardtonic app, addressing a longstanding demand for locally relevant solutions in Nigeria’s growing digital commerce sector.

With increased reliance on digital payments and online shopping nationwide, industry stakeholders have noted that many consumers faced hurdles acquiring or redeeming Nigerian gift cards due to limited platforms. The expansion by Cardtonic is expected to improve access for individuals and small businesses seeking seamless gifting and payment alternatives.

Cardtonic representatives said the upgrade aligns with their vision of making digital gifting more accessible for Nigerians at home and abroad. No official figures were disclosed regarding projected user growth or transaction volume following the launch. The company also did not state whether partnerships with major Nigerian brands have been finalised but indicated ongoing efforts to onboard more merchants.

The company encouraged users to download the latest version of its app via major app stores. Stakeholders in the fintech sector are watching closely to see if Cardtonic’s move will spur similar innovations among competitors or attract new entrants into Nigeria’s digital voucher market.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/888183-cardtonic-evolves-into-full-service-gift-card-app-for-nigerians-to-buy-local-gift-cards.html

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