Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Reaffirms Land Rights, Forest Protection Commitment Ahead of COP31
Nigeria restates position on safeguarding forests and indigenous land rights in build-up to global climate summit
Nigeria restates position on safeguarding forests and indigenous land rights in build-up to global climate summit
The federal government has reiterated its dedication to protecting land rights and preserving forests across Nigeria as the country prepares for the upcoming COP31 climate conference. Officials made this affirmation on Wednesday, emphasising the importance of sustainable land management and forest conservation in Abuja.
The renewed commitment comes as international attention turns towards Nigeria’s role in global environmental negotiations, with the next United Nations climate summit set to take place later this year. According to government representatives, efforts are ongoing to balance economic growth with ecological preservation, particularly in communities dependent on forest resources.
Protecting land rights has remained a priority for policymakers, given its significance for rural livelihoods and food security. Nigeria’s forests face mounting pressure from illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and urbanisation. Stakeholders have called for stronger enforcement of existing laws and more inclusive policies that empower local communities to participate actively in conservation.
A senior environment ministry official stated that Nigeria would present concrete strategies at COP31, highlighting national achievements and ongoing challenges. “We are working closely with traditional leaders and civil society groups to ensure our approach is both effective and respectful of indigenous rights,” the official noted during a briefing in Abuja.
With COP31 drawing near, environmental groups are urging government to accelerate policy implementation and increase funding for afforestation projects. Observers say Nigeria’s stance on land rights and forest protection will be closely watched by international partners seeking stronger commitments from large African states.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Sanctions Six Nigerians, Three Firms Over Terrorism Financing Allegations
Move marks major step in Nigeria’s anti-terror fight as authorities target individuals and entities linked to insurgent funding
Move marks major step in Nigeria’s anti-terror fight as authorities target individuals and entities linked to insurgent funding
The federal government has officially sanctioned six individuals and three entities in Nigeria for their alleged roles in financing terrorism, according to an announcement made on Wednesday. The action, which authorities say is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt funding for terrorist activities, follows months of intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration.
The newly released sanctions list identifies the persons and companies whose assets are now frozen, pending further investigation and prosecution under Nigeria’s counter-terrorism laws. Security officials revealed that the decision was reached after a detailed probe into financial transactions suspected to be aiding terrorist groups operating within and outside Nigeria’s borders.
This development comes at a time when the country continues to battle with insurgency in the North-East and increasing security threats across several regions. Analysts note that curbing the flow of funds remains a critical challenge for security agencies, as terrorist organisations often rely on complex networks involving local collaborators and international partners.
A senior official involved in the process described the sanctions as “a strong message to those who support terrorism directly or indirectly.” He added that all affected accounts have been flagged for immediate action by relevant financial institutions. There has been no immediate response from those named on the sanctions list or their legal representatives.
Government has stated that more names may be added as investigations continue, while urging citizens to report any suspicious financial activity. Security experts say this move could help dismantle key support structures for armed groups, but stress that sustained vigilance and enforcement will be necessary to achieve lasting impact.
Nigeria News (Standard)
ECOWAS Court Orders Nigeria to Pay ₦10 Million to Abuja Journalist Over Police Assault
Judgement cites violation of rights after police detained and assaulted Jide Oyekunle during protest coverage in FCT
Judgement cites violation of rights after police detained and assaulted Jide Oyekunle during protest coverage in FCT
The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has directed the Federal Republic of Nigeria to pay ₦10 million in damages to Mr. Jide Oyekunle, a journalist with Independent Newspaper, over his unlawful arrest and assault by police officers at Eagle Square, Abuja. The ruling was delivered on June 22, following a suit brought under the eRIGHTS project led by Avocats Sans Frontières France, with support from the European Union.
According to court documents, Oyekunle—who previously served as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Correspondents’ Chapel—was covering the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests on August 1, 2024, when armed police officers acting on the instruction of then-FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, physically assaulted him. His camera was destroyed and his mobile phone seized before he was detained without legal justification.
The ECOWAS Court found that the actions of the Nigerian police constituted an excessive and unjustified use of force, violating Oyekunle’s rights to freedom of expression, personal liberty, dignity, and property as enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. In its judgement on Suit No. ECW/CCJ/APP/29/25, the court accepted submissions from Oyekunle’s counsel, Collins I. Maidoh-Anene, Esq., who argued that such police conduct undermines press freedom and contravenes international legal standards.
Avocats Sans Frontières France welcomed the decision as a victory for journalists’ rights in Nigeria. In a statement released after the judgement, representatives of the group said: “This ruling sends a clear message that journalists must be protected against all forms of abuse in the course of their duties.”
Nigerian authorities have not yet issued an official response to the court’s order. The judgement is expected to spur renewed debate around police accountability and protection for journalists nationwide.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/national/ecowas-court-awards-nigerian-journalist-n10m-damages/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Jude Chukwuka Unveils Arsenal-Inspired Album in Lagos to Mark 61st Birthday
Veteran actor celebrates milestone with music project dedicated to English football club, highlighting his passion for the Gunners
Veteran actor celebrates milestone with music project dedicated to English football club, highlighting his passion for the Gunners
Veteran Nigerian actor Jude Chukwuka has launched a new album inspired by Arsenal Football Club, marking his 61st birthday with a celebration in Lagos on Wednesday. The project, which pays tribute to the English Premier League side, underscores Chukwuka’s long-standing admiration for the Gunners and his desire to merge his love for football with his artistic talents.
Chukwuka’s unveiling event brought together friends, family, and fans at a modest gathering in Lagos, where he shared tracks from the album and spoke about the influence of Arsenal on his personal and creative journey. According to the actor, the decision to dedicate an entire music project to Arsenal stemmed from years of following the club and wanting to express his support through music.
The occasion holds significance for many Nigerian football enthusiasts, as Arsenal maintains a large fan base across major cities such as Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt. Chukwuka’s album is expected to resonate with supporters who have followed both his acting career and Arsenal’s fortunes over the years. The project also highlights how sports fandom continues to inspire artistic expression within Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Although details of official statements from either Arsenal Football Club or prominent members of Nigeria’s entertainment sector were not immediately available as at press time, attendees at the launch commended Chukwuka’s initiative. Many described it as a unique celebration of both his personal milestone and the enduring appeal of football culture in Nigeria.
Chukwuka’s new album is now available for streaming on digital platforms. The actor hinted that further collaborations may be announced later this year as he seeks to blend sports themes with contemporary Nigerian music.
Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/890362-jude-chukwuka-unveils-arsenal-inspired-album-at-61.html
Federal Government Sanctions Six Nigerians, Three Firms Over Terrorism Financing Allegations
ECOWAS Court Orders Nigeria to Pay ₦10 Million to Abuja Journalist Over Police Assault
Jude Chukwuka Unveils Arsenal-Inspired Album in Lagos to Mark 61st Birthday
Senate President Akpabio Swears In Four New Senators After Bye-Elections in Abuja
Delta Governor Oborevwori Hails Favour Ashe’s 9.93s Triumph at Lagos Commonwealth Trials
FCT Minister Wike Blasts Super Eagles Over 2026 World Cup Miss, Calls for Urgent Overhaul
Senate Opens Final Debate on State Police Bill in Abuja
‘We Are Not Happy’ — Wike Laments Super Eagles’ Absence From 2026 World Cup
Delta Pastor Urges Men in Warri to Embrace Romance in Marriages
Ụlọikpe U.S. Kpọrọ Nwoke Naijiria N’Ihe Omume Iji Ịntanetị Gbaso $3.5 Million
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
