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Abuja Hosts Inaugural Africa International Christian Film Festival, Organisers Urge Creatives to Reclaim Storytelling

Festival concludes after four days of screenings and masterclasses, with call for excellence and cultural identity in film

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Festival concludes after four days of screenings and masterclasses, with call for excellence and cultural identity in film

The maiden edition of the Africa International Christian Film Festival (AICFF 2026) ended in Abuja on Saturday, with organisers urging Nigerian and African creatives to reclaim storytelling through excellence, strong identity and kingdom influence. The four-day event, which took place between June 3 and June 6 at a venue in the Federal Capital Territory, featured film screenings, panel discussions, masterclasses and networking sessions for stakeholders across the industry.

According to festival organisers, the initiative was designed to promote values-driven content and inspire filmmakers to tell stories that reflect authentic African experiences. Attendees participated in strategic industry conversations aimed at addressing challenges facing local creatives in a global market increasingly dominated by foreign narratives.

Organisers emphasised the need for excellence and innovation among Nigerian filmmakers to help position the country as a leader in Christian-themed cinema on the continent. They called on participants to harness their unique identities and cultural backgrounds as tools for impactful storytelling that can resonate both locally and internationally.

While the festival primarily targeted Christian filmmakers, organisers said the lessons shared were relevant for all storytellers seeking to make meaningful contributions to society. “We believe African creatives have a responsibility to shape narratives that align with our values and realities,” an official stated during one of the closing sessions.

The successful hosting of AICFF 2026 has been described as a step towards building a sustainable platform for faith-based content creators in Nigeria. Organisers hinted at plans to expand future editions, with calls for greater collaboration among industry professionals.

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/film/organisers-urge-creatives-to-reclaim-story-telling-as-film-festival-ends-in-abuja/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

NBS Reports Nigeria’s Inflation Rises to 15.93% as Food Prices Surge Nationwide

National Bureau of Statistics attributes increase to higher costs of staple foods, raising concerns for households and policymakers

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National Bureau of Statistics attributes increase to higher costs of staple foods, raising concerns for households and policymakers

Nigeria’s headline inflation rate climbed to 15.93 percent in June, according to figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Monday. The agency said the uptick was driven mainly by persistent increases in food prices across states, deepening economic pressure on households nationwide.

The NBS report, published from its Abuja headquarters, showed that both urban and rural dwellers experienced rising costs for essential commodities such as rice, yam, bread, and oil. The latest figure marks a further jump from previous months and signals continued challenges for consumers already grappling with stagnant wages and high unemployment.

Analysts say the new inflation data highlights ongoing structural problems in agriculture and distribution networks. Many Nigerians have seen their purchasing power eroded as food accounts for a significant share of household expenditure. With the naira remaining under pressure against major currencies, import-dependent goods have also become more expensive.

In its statement, the NBS attributed the spike to disruptions in local supply chains and seasonal factors affecting harvests. The agency urged policymakers to prioritise investment in transport infrastructure and market access for farmers as part of wider measures to rein in inflation. No official comment was immediately available from the Ministry of Finance or Central Bank.

Economists warn that without decisive action to stabilise prices, more Nigerians could slip into poverty amid rising costs of living. The NBS is expected to release further breakdowns by sector and state in coming weeks.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/887948-nigerias-inflation-up-15-93-amid-high-food-prices-nbs.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Reps Caucus Leader Challenges Oshiomhole on Peter Obi’s Security Record in Anambra

APC chieftain’s criticism draws swift response from House member, reigniting debate over past governance in South-East

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APC chieftain’s criticism draws swift response from House member, reigniting debate over past governance in South-East

A leader of the House of Representatives caucus has openly confronted former APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, regarding remarks made about Peter Obi’s security performance during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State. The exchange, which took place on Monday, has reignited discussion over the legacy of security management in the South-East.

The confrontation began after Oshiomhole reportedly criticised Obi’s handling of security issues when he was governor, alleging that Anambra experienced significant lapses under his watch. In response, the Reps caucus leader—whose identity was not specified—defended Obi’s record and challenged Oshiomhole to provide concrete evidence supporting his claims.

The debate has caught public attention as political stakeholders and observers recall that security concerns have remained a major issue for successive administrations in Anambra and across the South-East zone. The state has long grappled with incidents of violence and criminal activity, making the track records of former governors a subject of continuous scrutiny.

Oshiomhole, a prominent APC figure from Edo State, had earlier commented on Obi’s governorship in a public forum, questioning whether his administration left behind improved security or unresolved challenges. The Reps caucus leader countered by highlighting achievements recorded during Obi’s term and accused critics of politicising security issues for partisan gain.

With both parties holding their ground, analysts say the ongoing dispute is likely to further polarise opinions ahead of future elections in the region. Political observers note that debates around past governance are expected to influence voter sentiment as politicians jostle for relevance and credibility.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/887949-reps-caucus-leader-tackles-oshiomhole-over-peter-obis-security-record-as-governor.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Police Raid Terrorists’ Hideout in Abuja, Arrest Four Suspects and Destroy Camp

Operation in Federal Capital Territory targets criminal enclave; security agencies intensify patrols amid rising concerns

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Operation in Federal Capital Territory targets criminal enclave; security agencies intensify patrols amid rising concerns

Police operatives in Abuja have dismantled a suspected terrorists’ camp and arrested four individuals during a recent security operation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The raid, which took place on Monday, comes as part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address insecurity and protect residents in Nigeria’s capital.

According to police sources, the operation was launched after intelligence reports indicated the existence of a criminal hideout within the outskirts of Abuja. Officers stormed the location, leading to the destruction of makeshift structures believed to be used by armed groups for planning attacks. Four suspects were apprehended during the raid and are currently being interrogated by security personnel.

The FCT has witnessed growing security concerns in recent months, with residents reporting incidents of kidnapping and armed robbery around several communities. Authorities have responded with increased patrols and targeted operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks and restoring public confidence.

A senior police official involved in the operation stated that investigations are ongoing to determine whether the suspects are linked to other recent attacks in Abuja or neighbouring states. “This action is part of our resolve to flush out all criminal elements from FCT,” the officer said. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.

Security analysts say the destruction of such camps could help stem planned attacks but warn that sustained intelligence gathering and community engagement are crucial for lasting results. The police have assured Abuja residents that more operations will be conducted in identified blackspots as government intensifies efforts to secure lives and property across the territory.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/887930-police-destroy-terrorists-camp-in-abuja-arrest-four.html

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