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
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.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Katsina Hosts El-Kanemi Warriors, Wikki Tourists Clash in President Federation Cup Showdown
Former champions to battle for semi-final spot as competition heats up in North-West venue
Former champions to battle for semi-final spot as competition heats up in North-West venue
El-Kanemi Warriors and Wikki Tourists, both former champions of the President Federation Cup, are set to face off in a much-anticipated fixture scheduled for Tuesday, 16 June 2026, at a venue in Katsina State. The encounter brings together two sides with storied histories, each aiming to secure a place in the semi-finals of Nigeria’s prestigious knockout football competition.
The match-up between El-Kanemi Warriors and Wikki Tourists was confirmed after both teams progressed through earlier rounds of the tournament. The fixture is expected to draw significant attention from fans in Katsina and across the country, given the pedigree of both clubs and their previous successes on the national stage.
The President Federation Cup remains one of Nigeria’s longest-running football competitions, offering clubs from different tiers of the league system an opportunity to compete for silverware. For El-Kanemi Warriors and Wikki Tourists, advancing further in this year’s edition is not only a matter of pride but also provides a potential route back to continental football. The winner of the Cup typically earns qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup, underlining the high stakes involved.
As at press time, neither club had released an official statement regarding team preparations or player availability. However, local observers expect both sides to field strong squads as they chase another title. Football analysts have noted that matches hosted in Katsina often draw passionate crowds and can influence game outcomes due to home support.
With semi-final places on the line, attention now turns to how both former champions will approach this critical encounter. The outcome could reshape ambitions for either side as they look to reclaim their place among Nigeria’s football elite.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abuja Appeal Court Stays Judgement Deregistering ADC, Accord and Three Other Parties
Stay order halts INEC’s move to deregister five opposition parties pending full appeal hearing in Abuja
Stay order halts INEC’s move to deregister five opposition parties pending full appeal hearing in Abuja
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has issued a stay of execution on the judgement that ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord, and three other opposition political parties. The court delivered its ruling on Tuesday, effectively pausing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s move to strike out these parties from Nigeria’s official list.
The development followed an appeal filed by the affected parties after a lower court had earlier granted INEC the authority to deregister them, citing failure to meet specific electoral performance criteria. With the stay now in effect, ADC, Accord, and the three unnamed parties will remain recognised until a substantive appeal is heard and determined by the appellate court.
The case has drawn significant attention within Nigeria’s political scene, especially as it involves issues of party survival and pluralism ahead of future elections. The affected parties argue that their deregistration would undermine Nigeria’s democratic diversity and limit options for voters at both state and national levels.
INEC is yet to release an official statement regarding the appellate court’s decision. However, leaders of the ADC and Accord have welcomed the development, insisting that only a fair hearing will guarantee justice for smaller opposition groups. They maintain that their continued existence is vital for robust democratic engagement.
The appeal is expected to be heard in coming weeks, with analysts noting that its outcome could set an important precedent for electoral regulations and party rights in Nigeria. Until then, all five parties remain on INEC’s list as full participants in Nigeria’s political process.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Oyo State Government Demolishes Ibadan Building Used as Criminal Hideout, Arms Storehouse
Commissioner Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola leads demolition in Egbeda LGA after security agencies uncover weapons cache
Commissioner Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola leads demolition in Egbeda LGA after security agencies uncover weapons cache
Oyo State Government on Tuesday demolished a residential building in Gbenku community, Arubiewe Road, off Olodo Garage, Egbeda Local Government Area of Ibadan, following its alleged use as a criminal hideout and arms storehouse. The exercise was led by Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, with support from Nigeria Police Force operatives and Egbeda LGA officials.
According to Mogbonjubola, the demolition followed an investigation by security agencies who uncovered a cache of arms and ammunition within the compound. The property consisted of a storey building and two bungalows enclosed by a fence. He stated that the state government approved the demolition after being notified by law enforcement agencies about the security threat posed by the premises.
The commissioner explained that this action is part of Governor Seyi Makinde’s broader initiative to address insecurity across Oyo State, especially the rising incidents of kidnapping and violent crime in urban and peri-urban areas. The government said it is committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property for all residents.
Speaking during the demolition exercise, Mogbonjubola said: “Security agencies discovered weapons on this property during their routine investigation. Based on their findings, we obtained approval from government to demolish this structure. We will not tolerate any attempt to compromise public safety in Oyo State.”
As at press time, no group or individual had claimed ownership of the building. The state government warned that similar measures would be taken against any property found to harbour criminal activity. Residents in the area welcomed the move but urged government to enhance patrols and surveillance to prevent future recurrence.
