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Nigeria News (Standard)

Aviation Minister Keyamo Reaffirms Nigeria’s Backing for SAATM, AfCFTA at Lomé Summit

Federal government pledges stronger air transport policies to boost trade and integration across Africa at Togo convention

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Federal government pledges stronger air transport policies to boost trade and integration across Africa at Togo convention

Nigeria has renewed its commitment to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promising deeper cooperation to drive economic growth and regional integration through improved aviation links. This assurance came from Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during the ongoing African Air Transport Convention and Expo 2026 in Lomé, Republic of Togo, on Monday.

Speaking on the sidelines of the summit, Keyamo said government is determined to work with other African countries and aviation bodies to promote policies that will strengthen air transport infrastructure, attract investment, and enable seamless movement of goods and people across the continent. His Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, conveyed this in a statement issued on Sunday.

Nigeria’s renewed focus on implementing SAATM and AfCFTA comes as African leaders push for greater intra-African trade and economic integration. Enhanced air connectivity is widely seen as critical to unlocking new markets, facilitating business travel, and improving logistics for goods between member states. With Nigeria being Africa’s largest economy by GDP (according to World Bank data), stakeholders say its leadership in aviation reforms could set a benchmark for the region.

“Nigeria remains committed to working closely with our African partners towards policies that will open up our skies and foster economic opportunities,” Keyamo said via his adviser. He emphasised that robust partnerships are needed to address infrastructure gaps, encourage private sector investment, and harmonise regulations for mutual benefit across Africa.

The convention in Lomé brings together policymakers, airline executives, investors and regulators from across Africa to discuss strategies for overcoming persistent challenges in air transport. As implementation of SAATM and AfCFTA continues to gain momentum, industry observers expect further announcements on regulatory harmonisation and bilateral agreements in coming months.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/aviation-business/african-aviation-convention-nigeria-reaffirms-commitment-to-saatm-afcfta/

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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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