Nigeria News (Standard)
Tinubu Urges African Leaders to Stop Raw Mineral Exports, Pushes for Local Value Addition
President calls for end to export of unprocessed minerals, says value addition will boost jobs and Africa’s economic independence
President calls for end to export of unprocessed minerals, says value addition will boost jobs and Africa’s economic independence
President Bola Tinubu has called on African countries to halt the export of raw minerals and instead focus on developing industries that add value within the continent. Tinubu made this appeal on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, during an official engagement in Abuja, stressing that Africa must shift from being a supplier of raw materials to global markets.
The president emphasised that continued export of unprocessed minerals leaves Africa at a disadvantage, as it limits job creation and restricts economic growth to lower rungs of the global value chain. He urged fellow African leaders to implement policies that will encourage investment in local processing and manufacturing sectors.
Tinubu’s comments come at a time when Nigeria and other resource-rich African nations are seeking ways to diversify their economies amid fluctuating global commodity prices. Many economists have long argued that Africa’s reliance on raw material exports hampers sustainable development, as the majority of profits are earned abroad through finished products.
“We must stop exporting our minerals in their raw state,” Tinubu said. “Africa must invest in industries that will process these resources here at home. This is the only way we can create quality jobs for our people and ensure true economic independence.”
No immediate response was available from opposition parties or major business groups. However, policy analysts say the president’s stance aligns with broader continental goals such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which encourages intra-African trade and industrialisation. They noted that implementing such reforms would require significant investments in infrastructure, skills development, and stable regulatory frameworks.
Experts predict that if Nigeria and its neighbours can successfully prioritise value addition in mining and other extractive sectors, the continent could see an increase in foreign direct investment and a reduction in youth unemployment rates.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Airline Operators of Nigeria Calls for Review of Aviation Taxes, Urges Economic Boycott of South Africa
Aviation body says high levies hinder growth, seeks government intervention after strained Nigeria–South Africa trade ties
Aviation body says high levies hinder growth, seeks government intervention after strained Nigeria–South Africa trade ties
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has called on the federal government to urgently review multiple aviation taxes and charges that it says are stifling the sector’s growth, while also advocating an economic boycott of South African businesses in response to perceived unfair treatment. The AON made this appeal in Lagos on Wednesday, highlighting concerns over rising costs and what it described as unfavourable bilateral relations with South Africa.
According to the AON, domestic airlines are grappling with numerous levies, taxes and statutory fees imposed by regulatory agencies, which they argue are driving up operational costs and making air travel less affordable for Nigerians. The group said these charges have become a major obstacle for indigenous carriers trying to compete both locally and internationally.
The call for a boycott of South African interests follows recent tensions between Nigeria and South Africa over trade and diplomatic issues. The AON warned that continued patronage of South African businesses by Nigerians undermines local industry, especially given what it described as South Africa’s restrictive policies towards Nigerian airlines and investments.
In a statement made available after its meeting, the association urged the federal government to initiate policy reforms that would harmonise aviation taxes and ensure a more conducive environment for operators. The group also appealed for reciprocal actions in Nigeria’s dealings with countries that impose barriers on Nigerian businesses. “We can no longer fold our hands while Nigerian airlines suffer under the weight of excessive charges and lack of reciprocity,” the AON said.
It is expected that the Ministry of Aviation will engage stakeholders on possible tax reforms in coming weeks. Industry observers say a review of levies could lower fares for travellers and boost competitiveness among Nigerian airlines. The government has not issued an official response as at press time.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abuja Court to Decide on Sowore’s Bail Restoration Request After Detention
Hearing set for Wednesday as activist seeks reinstatement of bail, with legal teams presenting arguments before Federal High Court
Hearing set for Wednesday as activist seeks reinstatement of bail, with legal teams presenting arguments before Federal High Court
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja will deliver its ruling on a request for bail restoration filed by detained activist Omoyele Sowore on Wednesday, 24 June 2026. Sowore, a prominent rights campaigner and former presidential candidate, is seeking the reinstatement of his bail after being held in custody over alleged breaches of previous court conditions.
The legal proceedings resumed this week with both Sowore’s defence counsel and representatives of the federal government presenting their arguments before the presiding judge. The activist’s lawyers maintained that his continued detention contravenes existing court orders, while the prosecution insisted that Sowore had violated terms of his earlier bail, necessitating further judicial review.
Sowore’s case has drawn significant attention within Nigeria’s political and civil society circles, especially given his history as a vocal critic of government policies and organiser of protests. Many observers view the outcome as a test for the independence of the judiciary and the extent to which fundamental rights are protected under current legal frameworks.
Court officials have not made public statements regarding the specifics of the bail application. However, sources within the judiciary indicated that both sides were given opportunity to submit additional documents ahead of Wednesday’s ruling. Civil rights groups have urged authorities to respect due process regardless of the outcome.
If granted, restoration of bail would allow Sowore temporary freedom pending further hearings on the substantive charges against him. The ruling could also set a precedent for future cases involving activists and opposition figures facing detention under similar circumstances.
Nigeria News (Standard)
SEC Warns Nigerians in Lagos Against Fake Dangote Refinery IPO Offers
Regulator cautions public as reports of fraudulent share sales in Dangote Refinery circulate online
Regulator cautions public as reports of fraudulent share sales in Dangote Refinery circulate online
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a strong warning to investors in Lagos and across Nigeria against falling for alleged Initial Public Offering (IPO) schemes linked to Dangote Refinery. The alert was released on Wednesday following increasing reports of fraudsters claiming to sell shares in the refinery to unsuspecting members of the public.
According to the SEC, these offers, often advertised on social media and via unofficial channels, have not been approved or sanctioned by regulatory authorities. The commission emphasised that Dangote Refinery has not floated any IPO or invited the public to subscribe for its shares as at the time of this advisory.
The development comes amid rising investor interest in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, especially after the official commissioning of the multi-billion naira Dangote Refinery in Lekki, Lagos State. Many Nigerians seeking quick returns have reportedly been targeted by scammers promising high profits from purported refinery share purchases.
In a statement, SEC management urged Nigerians to always verify any investment offer with the commission before committing funds. “Investors are advised to exercise utmost caution and avoid falling victim to fraudulent investment schemes promising shares in companies that are not listed or offering public subscription,” the commission said. The regulatory body further warned that engaging with unregistered operators exposes investors to significant financial risks.
The SEC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s capital market and advised anyone with information on such illegal offers to report directly through its official channels. No official response has been received from Dangote Group regarding these fraudulent claims. Investors are encouraged to remain vigilant as enforcement actions against perpetrators are ongoing.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic Throws Shade as Cristiano Ronaldo Declares ‘I Am Back’
Airline Operators of Nigeria Calls for Review of Aviation Taxes, Urges Economic Boycott of South Africa
Jude Bellingham Says Ghana Star Deserved Man of the Match, Not Him — Fans React
Abuja Court to Decide on Sowore’s Bail Restoration Request After Detention
Ghana Coach Slams VAR After Controversial Penalty Decision in Draw Against England
SEC Warns Nigerians in Lagos Against Fake Dangote Refinery IPO Offers
Ronaldo Hits Back at Messi Fans, Says Hard Work Is the Real Secret to Success
‘I’m Back’ — Ronaldo Sends Message to Messi Fans After Record-Breaking World Cup Brace
Oba of Benin Sets July 2 Ritual to Place Curses on Kidnappers Amid Rising Edo Insecurity
Lagos Households Favour Viva Plus Dishwashing Liquid for Tough Grease After Sunday Meals
Environment Minister Urges Increased Investment in Nigeria’s Green Economy Ahead of Global Climate Summit
Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
Moniepoint Graduates Second DreamDevs Cohort in Lagos to Strengthen Nigeria’s Engineering Workforce
Lagos FMCG Giants Record ₦18.9bn Rise in Production Costs, Earnings Hit by Inflation in Q1
FG Launches $500m Abuja Formula 1 Bid, Targets Africa’s First Grand Prix Since 1993
Lagos Residents Spend Over ₦50bn on US Visa Applications Amid Tighter Entry Rules
Fresh Romance Rumours Trail Lando Norris as Alix Earle Sparks Drama in Monaco
Lagos Court Declares National Assembly’s ₦110bn Vehicle and Allowance Spending Unlawful
Lagos Police Arrest Doctor, Birth Attendant Over Alleged Sale of Newborn for ₦2.5m
