Nigeria News (Standard)
NEC Approves ₦83.2bn for Flood Control and Climate Emergency Response Nationwide
Council allocates funds to state governments for urgent infrastructure, as communities brace for peak rainy season impacts
Council allocates funds to state governments for urgent infrastructure, as communities brace for peak rainy season impacts
The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the disbursement of ₦83.2 billion to tackle flooding and other climate-related emergencies across Nigeria. The decision was reached during the council’s meeting on Thursday, 18 June 2026, in Abuja, as states prepare for the peak of this year’s rainy season.
According to NEC, the funds will be distributed among state governments to support critical interventions in flood-prone areas, including construction of drainage channels, rehabilitation of damaged roads, and provision of relief materials to affected communities. The council noted that these measures are aimed at minimising loss of life and property as weather forecasts indicate heightened risk of severe flooding in several states.
Flooding remains a recurring challenge in Nigeria, with the 2022 and 2023 incidents displacing millions and causing significant agricultural and infrastructural losses. The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had earlier warned that over two-thirds of the country’s states are at risk this year due to above-average rainfall and poor urban planning. Many communities in the South-South, North-Central and parts of the South-East have already begun experiencing early signs of waterlogging and road washouts.
A statement from NEC said: “The council has resolved to act proactively by approving ₦83.2 billion for states to implement immediate flood mitigation projects.” Council members emphasised the urgency given recent reports from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). However, some state officials expressed concern over equitable allocation and called for transparent monitoring. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comments on Thursday.
Implementation is expected to commence before July, with each state government directed to submit action plans within two weeks. Experts say timely intervention is crucial to prevent a repeat of last year’s devastation, while civil society groups have urged close monitoring to ensure funds reach vulnerable communities.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti Group Demands Probe Over Alleged Vote Buying, Pre-Thumbprinted Ballots in 2026 Governorship Election
Civil society calls for INEC and security agencies to investigate claims of irregularities in PVC distribution across Ekiti State
Civil society calls for INEC and security agencies to investigate claims of irregularities in PVC distribution across Ekiti State
A civil society group has demanded a thorough investigation into allegations of vote buying, pre-thumbprinted ballot papers, and irregular Permanent Voter Card (PVC) distribution during the Ekiti State governorship election. The call was made on Sunday, 21 June 2026, as concerns mounted over the credibility of the electoral process in the South-West state.
According to the group, reports emerged from several polling units about incidents of voters allegedly being induced with cash and other items to influence their choices at the ballot. There were also claims that some ballot papers had been thumbprinted before reaching polling stations, raising further questions about transparency. The group further alleged that PVCs meant for eligible voters were distributed in a manner that could disenfranchise some segments of the electorate.
These developments come as Ekiti State prepares for a highly contested poll, with political observers warning that such practices undermine public trust in democratic institutions. Electoral malpractice has remained a recurring issue in Nigeria’s elections, despite repeated assurances from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies about reforms and enhanced monitoring.
The group urged INEC to “promptly investigate all reported cases of irregularities” and called on security agencies to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. “The legitimacy of any government is rooted in the integrity of its election,” they said. As at press time, INEC had not issued an official statement regarding these specific allegations.
Stakeholders say prompt action is required to safeguard the credibility of future elections in Ekiti and across Nigeria. The group also appealed to voters and political parties to remain peaceful while investigations proceed.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Releases Emergency Funds to States for Ebola Preparedness
Health authorities say fund disbursement will strengthen surveillance and rapid response teams nationwide amid regional outbreak fears
Health authorities say fund disbursement will strengthen surveillance and rapid response teams nationwide amid regional outbreak fears
The Federal Government has released emergency response funds to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to boost Nigeria’s preparedness against a potential Ebola outbreak. The funds were disbursed on Sunday, 21 June, as part of a proactive strategy to enhance disease surveillance and strengthen public health infrastructure across the country.
According to health officials, the funds are intended to support state-level activities such as training of rapid response teams, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), and increased monitoring at points of entry including airports and land borders. The move comes in response to rising concerns about Ebola outbreaks in neighbouring West African countries, which have prompted Nigerian authorities to heighten vigilance nationwide.
Ebola last appeared in Nigeria in 2014, when the country successfully contained the virus through coordinated federal and state efforts. Since then, experts have urged government not to relent in maintaining robust surveillance systems, given Nigeria’s status as a major travel hub in the region. The latest fund release aims to ensure that states can act quickly if any suspected cases arise.
While details of the allocation per state were not immediately available, health authorities confirmed that all states have received their share. Officials say the funding will enable states to scale up community sensitisation campaigns and improve readiness at designated isolation centres. “This intervention is crucial for preventing any potential spread,” a senior health official stated, adding that regular simulation exercises will also be conducted.
The Federal Ministry of Health has directed state commissioners for health to submit weekly situation reports and update Abuja on progress made with the funds. Experts advise continued collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies as well as public education efforts. As at press time, Nigeria had not recorded any new Ebola cases.
Nigeria News (Standard)
INEC Declares Final Results for Ekiti Governorship Election Amid High Voter Turnout
Electoral commission announces official figures after Saturday poll as stakeholders await reactions from parties and candidates
Electoral commission announces official figures after Saturday poll as stakeholders await reactions from parties and candidates
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final results for the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State, following voting and collation that concluded on Saturday, 20 June. The announcement marks the official end of the electoral process, with the commission declaring figures from all local government areas.
According to INEC, results from across Ekiti’s 16 local government areas were collated at the state headquarters in Ado-Ekiti under tight security. The process began shortly after polls closed on Saturday evening and continued into the early hours of Sunday, with party agents and observers present throughout. High voter turnout was recorded in several constituencies, with many residents expressing hope for improved governance.
The Ekiti governorship race is widely seen as a significant test for both ruling and opposition parties in the South-West geopolitical zone. Observers noted that this year’s contest featured heightened political activity, following recent reforms to Nigeria’s Electoral Act and a push for greater transparency by INEC. The outcome is expected to shape political alignments ahead of the next general elections.
As at press time, INEC officials were yet to issue detailed statements on any complaints or petitions received from aggrieved parties. However, both major political parties have called on their supporters to remain calm while awaiting further pronouncements. Security agencies deployed across Ekiti maintained a visible presence at collation centres and major roads to forestall any disruptions.
With the final results now declared, attention will shift to possible legal challenges from candidates or parties dissatisfied with the outcome. Analysts say how INEC manages post-election processes in Ekiti could influence public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system going forward.
Ekiti Group Demands Probe Over Alleged Vote Buying, Pre-Thumbprinted Ballots in 2026 Governorship Election
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INEC Declares Final Results for Ekiti Governorship Election Amid High Voter Turnout
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