Nigeria News (Standard)
MTN Chairman Mcebisi Jonas Condemns Xenophobia, Blames Politicians for South Africa Tensions
Jonas says government failures and political rhetoric fuelling anti-migrant sentiment as repatriation of Malawians begins
Jonas says government failures and political rhetoric fuelling anti-migrant sentiment as repatriation of Malawians begins
MTN Group chairman, Mcebisi Jonas, has openly criticised the rising wave of xenophobia in South Africa, warning that the country ‘is nothing without the rest of Africa’. Jonas made this statement in Johannesburg on Thursday during a eulogy at the funeral of Thokozani Damasane, a Zimbabwean-born public servant celebrated for his contribution to South African civic life.
Jonas attributed current anti-foreigner tensions to failures within the South African state, specifically highlighting weak border control, a struggling justice system, and a deteriorating education sector. He argued that politicians are exploiting these frustrations by blaming foreign nationals instead of addressing the underlying issues. According to him, ‘certain politicians with no credibility whatsoever’ are using anti-migrant rhetoric for their own political gain ahead of elections.
His remarks come amid renewed migration tensions across South Africa, with authorities reportedly processing over 15,000 Malawian nationals for repatriation and security agencies ramping up nationwide patrols ahead of planned anti-migrant demonstrations. The situation has raised concern among stakeholders in Nigeria and other African countries about the safety of citizens living and working in South Africa.
In his address, Jonas linked current hostility to a longer historical trend, explaining that tribalism and ethnic division were introduced during colonial times to keep Africans divided and easier to control. He warned that continued hostility towards other Africans could undermine South Africa’s regional relationships and economic interests. Reports have also shown waning support for South African businesses and artists across Africa due to ongoing xenophobia.
Jonas, who previously served as Deputy Minister of Finance in South Africa, is one of the most senior business leaders in Southern Africa to publicly speak against xenophobia. His intervention has sparked widespread debate on social media, with some supporting his criticism of government failure while others insist foreign nationals place strain on local resources. As the issue continues to dominate public discourse, observers say more business leaders may be pressured to take a position on migration and national identity.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/mtn-chairman-south-africa-xenophobia-comments-2026062712244911453
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Partners Oakleaf to Boost Health at Public Service Club Games
New collaboration aims to promote wellness among public servants through integrated health activities during annual sports event
New collaboration aims to promote wellness among public servants through integrated health activities during annual sports event
The Lagos State Government has entered into a partnership with Oakleaf, a health sector stakeholder, to enhance the health and wellness components of this year’s Lagos Public Service Club Games. The announcement was made in Lagos on Saturday, 27 June 2026, as part of efforts to improve the wellbeing of public servants across the state.
According to organisers, the partnership will introduce health-focused activities alongside the traditional sporting competitions. These additions are expected to provide participants with access to basic health checks and wellness education during the games, which serve as an annual convergence for staff from different government ministries and agencies.
The Lagos Public Service Club Games have long been a platform for fostering teamwork and camaraderie among civil servants in Nigeria’s commercial capital. This year’s inclusion of health initiatives comes amid growing calls for workplace wellness programmes within the public sector, with stakeholders noting that regular physical activity and preventive healthcare can significantly boost productivity and morale.
Officials from Oakleaf stated that their involvement would centre on providing free screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, and other routine assessments throughout the tournament. “We believe that integrating these services will not only encourage participation but also raise awareness about healthy living among workers,” an Oakleaf representative said in a statement released after the agreement was signed.
The Lagos State Government has welcomed the development, describing it as a step towards building a healthier workforce. Organisers indicated that if successful, the partnership could be expanded in future editions of the games. Further details regarding specific health programmes are expected to be released ahead of the event’s official kickoff date.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Kogi West Monarchs, Youth Leaders Pledge Support for Security Agencies to Tackle Insecurity
Traditional rulers in Okunland direct withdrawal of chieftaincy dispute from court, urge unity against rising crime
Traditional rulers in Okunland direct withdrawal of chieftaincy dispute from court, urge unity against rising crime
Traditional rulers and youth leaders from the five Local Government Areas of Okunland in Kogi West Senatorial District have pledged to strengthen their partnership with security agencies in a renewed effort to tackle insecurity across their communities. The commitment was made during separate meetings held over the weekend in Kabba, headquarters of Kogi West, as concerns rise about criminal activities in the North-Central state.
At a gathering of the Okun Area Traditional Council chaired by the Obaro of Kabba, Oba (Dr.) Solomon Owoniyi, monarchs reviewed pressing issues affecting peace, security and development within the district. Other royal fathers present included the Elegbe of Egbe, Oba Irukera; the Agbana of Isanlu, Oba Etombi; the Elulu of Mopa, Oba Ibeun; and the Olujumu of Ijumu, Oba Ayeni. The council resolved to work more closely with security agencies and promote community-based initiatives to combat crime.
The monarchs noted that insecurity threatens social cohesion and economic progress in Okunland and called for collective vigilance among residents. They discussed specific challenges within their domains and agreed on a united front to address common problems affecting the area.
On a chieftaincy dispute involving two traditional rulers in Yagba West Local Government Area, the council announced its intervention. The traditional leaders directed that all legal actions relating to the dispute be withdrawn from court immediately. They invited both parties to a reconciliation meeting aimed at reaching an amicable settlement.
Youth leaders present at the meetings also expressed readiness to collaborate with law enforcement agencies by improving information sharing and participating in community policing efforts. Stakeholders emphasised that only through sustained cooperation can lasting peace and security be achieved across Kogi West.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NDLEA Seizes 929.5kg Illicit Drugs, Secures 53 Convictions in Enugu State
Agency intensifies crackdown on drug trafficking, says increased operations have led to more arrests and successful prosecutions
Agency intensifies crackdown on drug trafficking, says increased operations have led to more arrests and successful prosecutions
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Enugu State has seized a total of 929.5 kilogrammes of illicit drugs and secured 53 convictions between January and June this year. The agency’s intensified efforts against drug trafficking and abuse in the South-East state have resulted in a notable increase in both arrests and successful prosecutions.
According to the NDLEA, the seizures were made during various operations across several local government areas in Enugu State, targeting known hotspots for drug activities. The agency said that its officers also dismantled several drug syndicates operating within the state during this period.
NDLEA’s recent clampdown comes amid rising concern over drug-related offences across Nigeria, with stakeholders warning about the impact of substance abuse on youth and community safety. The agency’s latest figures highlight ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing the distribution and consumption of illegal substances, especially cannabis and other narcotics prevalent in the region.
While providing an update on their activities, NDLEA officials stressed that community vigilance and public support are crucial to sustaining gains in the fight against drug trafficking. The agency also called on residents to report suspicious movements or individuals linked to illicit drugs. No statement from opposition political parties or civil society groups was immediately available regarding the latest operations.
The NDLEA has pledged to continue its operations with renewed vigour throughout 2026, urging parents, schools, and community leaders to collaborate with law enforcement to protect young people from the dangers of substance abuse.
Lagos Partners Oakleaf to Boost Health at Public Service Club Games
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