Telecoms giant and Imo State move to assist Nigerians returning from South Africa following xenophobic attacks

MTN Nigeria has announced plans to provide both cash and airtime assistance to Nigerian citizens returning from South Africa due to recent xenophobic violence. The initiative, revealed on Thursday, comes alongside a separate promise by the Imo State Government to give ₦1 million each to indigenes affected by the evacuations.

The support measures were made public as the country continues to receive evacuees from South Africa, following a series of violent incidents targeting foreign nationals in major cities. MTN’s gesture aims to help ease the reintegration process for affected Nigerians, many of whom lost their livelihoods or property in the attacks. In a statement, MTN said it would distribute undisclosed cash sums and airtime credits directly to returnees upon arrival.

The Imo State Government also announced a special relief package for its citizens who were evacuated. According to the statement, each Imo indigene returning home will receive ₦1 million as part of an empowerment programme designed to help them start afresh. Authorities say the initiative is meant to cushion the immediate economic impact faced by those forced out of South Africa due to xenophobic violence.

Xenophobia-related violence in South Africa has led to diplomatic tensions with several African countries. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs facilitated evacuation flights, with hundreds of returnees arriving in Lagos and Abuja in recent days. Many of the evacuees have narrated ordeals of losing businesses and being targeted because of their nationality.

MTN Nigeria’s intervention follows public scrutiny over its parent company’s operations in South Africa. The company said its support for returnees is part of ongoing efforts “to stand with Nigerians during challenging times.” Meanwhile, Imo officials stated that details on how beneficiaries can access the ₦1 million grant will be communicated through designated state offices in Owerri.

With further flights expected in coming weeks, government agencies say they are working with private sector partners and state governments across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to offer support packages tailored to local needs.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/886989-xenophobia-evacuations-mtn-to-donate-cash-airtime-to-returnees-as-imo-govt-promises-indigenes-n1m.html

Upper chamber withdraws earlier order summoning ex-NNPC chief Mele Kyari in Abuja over missing funds allegations

The Senate on Thursday in Abuja nullified its previous directive seeking the arrest of former Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, over an alleged ₦210 trillion missing oil revenue. The decision followed a review of the committee’s earlier resolution that had threatened legal action against Kyari if he failed to appear before lawmakers.

Senators had initially issued a summon after concerns were raised about the whereabouts of ₦210 trillion reportedly accrued from crude oil sales, sparking public debate over transparency in Nigeria’s petroleum sector. However, during plenary on Thursday, the chamber resolved to set aside the arrest order and continue its probe through conventional legislative channels.

The issue of alleged missing oil revenue has drawn significant attention, especially as Nigeria faces mounting fiscal pressures and declining foreign reserves. The controversy emerged when a Senate committee investigating crude oil receipts claimed that huge sums had not been properly accounted for by NNPCL under Kyari’s leadership. The matter has become a focal point for calls for accountability within the oil and gas sector.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio (APC, Akwa Ibom North-West) said at the session that “the Senate must follow due process” in addressing the matter, adding that further actions will be based on findings from ongoing investigations. No official statement was immediately released by Kyari or NNPCL regarding the Senate’s latest decision.

With this development, the Senate is expected to proceed with its inquiry into crude oil sales and remittances, focusing on ensuring proper oversight rather than punitive measures. Stakeholders in the sector have called for transparent handling of public resources to rebuild trust among Nigerians.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/886877-updated-missing-%e2%82%a6210-trillion-senate-nullifies-arrest-threat-against-ex-md-kyari.html

Forward strikes early as tournament kicks off in Mexico City, giving hosts a strong start to group stage campaign

Mexico’s forward, Julián Quiñones, scored the first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the opening match held on Thursday in Mexico City. The goal came in the early minutes of the encounter, setting the tone for the host nation’s campaign in front of a packed Estadio Azteca.

Quiñones found the net after a swift attacking move, capitalising on a defensive lapse by the opposition to put Mexico ahead. The home crowd erupted as Mexico secured an early lead, with fans hopeful that this strong start will propel their team further in the tournament. The match marks the beginning of group stage fixtures for all participating teams.

The opening ceremony featured cultural displays and remarks from FIFA officials, highlighting the significance of Mexico hosting football’s biggest event for a record third time. Local supporters expressed excitement over Quiñones’ performance, while analysts say his early goal could boost team morale as they face tough opponents in their group.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Mexico for successfully hosting the opener and praised Quiñones for his decisive play. Mexican national team coach Diego Cocca said after the match that scoring first at home was important for confidence, adding: “We are proud to start well and will continue to work hard.”

With this victory, Mexico takes an early advantage in their group standings. They will return to action in a few days as matches continue across co-host cities in North America. Supporters are optimistic that Quiñones’ performance signals a promising run for El Tri on home soil.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/886976-mexicos-quinones-scores-first-goal-of-2026-world-cup.html