Nigeria News (Standard)
Afreximbank Urges Abuja, African States to Boost Intra-Continental Trade Amid Global Uncertainties
Bank’s new report warns reliance on raw material exports leaves Nigeria and others exposed to external economic shocks
Bank’s new report warns reliance on raw material exports leaves Nigeria and others exposed to external economic shocks
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has called on Nigeria and other African countries to strengthen intra-African trade and build resilience against global economic disruptions. The appeal was contained in a Trade and Development Finance Brief released Tuesday in Abuja, highlighting the continent’s vulnerability due to its dependence on raw material exports.
According to the report, Africa’s trade structure remains dominated by the export of commodities such as agricultural products, oil, gas and minerals, with Nigeria among the major contributors. Imports, however, are still heavily skewed towards manufactured goods and machinery, a configuration Afreximbank described as risky given ongoing geopolitical tensions and global supply chain disruptions.
The bank noted that this pattern has left many African economies exposed to unfavourable terms of trade shocks. “Commodity price volatility and external headwinds can quickly destabilise growth across the region,” the brief stated. Afreximbank said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) remains central to efforts aimed at promoting value addition, industrialisation and economic diversification across member states.
Afreximbank urged policymakers in Abuja and other African capitals to accelerate implementation of AfCFTA provisions. “Deepening regional integration is not just about boosting trade volumes but ensuring African economies are better protected from shocks originating outside the continent,” it added.
While the federal government has previously pledged support for AfCFTA programmes, experts say progress on harmonising customs procedures and reducing non-tariff barriers remains slow. The bank’s report suggested that failure to address these issues could undermine long-term growth prospects for Nigeria and its neighbours.
Stakeholders are expected to review the report’s recommendations at upcoming trade forums in Lagos and Addis Ababa. Afreximbank said it will continue engaging national governments to advance policy reforms supporting intra-African commerce.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Italian Club Ravenna Signs Ronaldinho at 46, Sparks Debate Over Return to Competitive Football
Move by Serie C side raises questions as fans, pundits discuss whether ex-Brazil star’s deal is marketing or genuine comeback
Move by Serie C side raises questions as fans, pundits discuss whether ex-Brazil star’s deal is marketing or genuine comeback
Legendary Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho has joined Italian third-tier club Ravenna FC at the age of 46, in a move announced on Saturday that has set tongues wagging across the global football community. The signing, which was confirmed by club officials in Ravenna, Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, has left many observers debating whether it signals a real return to the pitch or is simply a marketing strategy by the Serie C outfit.
The development unfolded as Ravenna released an official statement announcing Ronaldinho’s arrival and unveiling plans for his integration into the squad. Details of his contract were not immediately disclosed, but the club highlighted the former Barcelona and AC Milan star’s global appeal and experience. While training schedules and matchday plans remain unclear, supporters have already begun speculating on when he might feature in competitive fixtures.
Ronaldinho’s move comes at a time when Nigerian fans are closely following international football stories, especially those involving African or global icons making surprise returns. The news has drawn mixed reactions within Italy and beyond. Some analysts say Ravenna hopes to boost stadium attendance and merchandise sales by bringing in such a high-profile name, while others argue it could undermine the team’s focus on younger talent. The story resonates with Nigerian football enthusiasts who recall similar stunts by clubs seeking publicity.
Neither Ronaldinho nor Ravenna FC officials have issued further comments regarding expectations for playing time or long-term plans. Some Italian sports commentators welcomed the move as a potential source of inspiration for young players, while sceptics questioned its impact on team performance. There was no immediate response from Italian league authorities concerning player eligibility at this level.
As speculation continues about Ronaldinho’s role—whether as an active player or primarily an ambassador—attention now shifts to Ravenna’s upcoming fixtures. The club is expected to clarify next steps in the coming days as both supporters and critics await confirmation on whether the Brazilian icon will actually grace Serie C matches this season.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti Party Agents Deploy Tactics to Induce Voters at Polling Units During Governorship Election
Concerns mount over alleged voter inducement as stakeholders call for INEC and security agencies to enforce electoral laws
Concerns mount over alleged voter inducement as stakeholders call for INEC and security agencies to enforce electoral laws
Party agents in Ekiti State were observed deploying various tactics to induce voters at several polling units during the governorship election held on Saturday, 20 June 2026. Reports from across the state indicated that agents representing major parties approached voters around the polling centres, allegedly offering incentives in a bid to sway electoral choices.
The incidents unfolded as voting commenced in multiple local government areas, with eyewitnesses noting that party representatives engaged in subtle exchanges and conversations with prospective voters. Some residents expressed worry that these practices could compromise the integrity of the electoral process. Security personnel and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were seen monitoring activities at some locations but did not intervene in all cases.
Voter inducement has long been a source of concern during elections in Nigeria, with repeated calls from civil society and opposition parties for stricter enforcement of existing laws. The situation in Ekiti highlights ongoing challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy, especially regarding vote buying and electoral malpractice. Political observers note that such actions undermine public trust and can affect election outcomes.
INEC officials present at several polling units declined to comment directly on specific incidents but emphasised their commitment to ensuring a free and fair process. Security agencies deployed across Ekiti State stated they would investigate any reported breaches of electoral law. Stakeholders have urged INEC and law enforcement to take decisive action against any individuals or groups found culpable.
As collation of results continues, attention remains on how authorities will address allegations of voter inducement. The outcome may shape public perception ahead of future elections in Ekiti State and other parts of the South-West.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NSCDC Rescues Teenage Girl from Kidnappers in Delta, Arrests Suspects
Security operatives recover victim unharmed; authorities urge vigilance as abductions rise in South-South region
Security operatives recover victim unharmed; authorities urge vigilance as abductions rise in South-South region
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has rescued a teenage girl from suspected kidnappers in Delta State, arresting individuals believed to be involved in the abduction. The operation took place on Saturday, 20 June 2026, as officers responded to distress signals from the affected community.
According to security sources, the rescue followed credible intelligence about suspicious movements within the area. NSCDC operatives launched a swift operation, locating the abducted teenager and detaining several suspects at the scene. The girl was recovered unhurt and has since been reunited with her family, while investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Kidnapping cases have seen a worrying increase in recent months across many parts of Nigeria’s South-South zone, with residents and stakeholders calling for heightened security patrols and community vigilance. The Delta State Command of NSCDC said it remains committed to collaborating with other agencies to protect lives and property in the state.
An official from NSCDC urged members of the public to report any suspicious activity promptly. “The safety of our communities requires collective effort. We encourage everyone to work closely with security agencies,” the official stated during a briefing on Saturday.
Authorities have assured that all arrested suspects will be prosecuted according to Nigerian law upon conclusion of investigations. The NSCDC also reiterated its resolve to maintain regular patrols and intelligence-led operations aimed at curbing kidnapping and related crimes in Delta State.
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Italian Club Ravenna Signs Ronaldinho at 46, Sparks Debate Over Return to Competitive Football
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