Nigeria News (Standard)
FG Approves New York, Dubai, Canada Routes for United Nigeria Airlines, Says Keyamo
Aviation minister announces new international licences for Nigerian carrier, highlighting drive to expand sector and boost forex earnings
Aviation minister announces new international licences for Nigerian carrier, highlighting drive to expand sector and boost forex earnings
The federal government has granted United Nigeria Airlines approval to operate flights on three new international routes—New York, Dubai, and Canada. This announcement was made by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during a briefing in Abuja on Friday, 19 June 2026.
According to Keyamo, the move is part of government’s effort to promote indigenous airlines and enhance Nigeria’s connectivity with key global destinations. He stated that the approval followed a thorough review of United Nigeria Airlines’ application and compliance with regulatory requirements set by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). “We are committed to supporting local airlines as they seek expansion beyond Africa,” Keyamo said.
The development is expected to open up new business opportunities and improve access for Nigerians seeking to travel for education, commerce or tourism. The aviation sector has faced challenges in recent years due to limited foreign exchange access and rising operational costs. Industry observers say the approval of these high-demand international routes could help United Nigeria Airlines boost its revenue profile while reducing reliance on foreign carriers.
Keyamo added that government would continue to ensure a level playing field for all operators in line with global best practices. He urged the airline to maintain safety standards and quality service as it prepares to launch operations on the newly approved routes. As at press time, United Nigeria Airlines had not announced specific commencement dates for flights to New York, Dubai or Canada.
The minister emphasised that government will monitor implementation closely and provide necessary support through relevant agencies. Stakeholders in the aviation industry have welcomed the decision as a step towards strengthening Nigeria’s presence in international air travel.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Operators Embrace Game Aggregation to Boost Online Casino Offerings
Industry experts say new technology enables faster game rollout and wider variety for Nigerian players, driving competition
Industry experts say new technology enables faster game rollout and wider variety for Nigerian players, driving competition
Online casino operators in Lagos have begun adopting game aggregation technology to strengthen their platforms and expand the range of casino content available to Nigerian players. The shift, which gained momentum this June, allows operators to access a broader portfolio of games through a single integration rather than negotiating with multiple providers individually.
Under this new model, platforms can launch and manage diverse game content more efficiently, meeting growing player expectations for fresh releases, seamless navigation, and compatibility across devices. Experts note that the aggregator framework connects casinos with various studios and game types—including slots, table games, live casino options, and regional favourites—without the operational burden of separate technical agreements for each provider.
Historically, online casinos in Nigeria have competed on bonuses, brand reputation, and user experience. However, industry stakeholders argue that the breadth and quality of a platform’s game library now play a central role in attracting and retaining customers. “Players want a wide selection without delays or glitches. Aggregation helps us deliver that experience,” said one Lagos-based operator who requested anonymity.
The integration process remains complex due to differing technical standards and regulatory certifications required by each studio. However, aggregators streamline these challenges by providing a unified system for updates, compliance checks, and commercial negotiations. This approach also supports rapid expansion into new markets as local regulations evolve within Nigeria’s fast-growing digital gaming sector.
Analysts predict that increased adoption of aggregation technology will intensify competition among Nigerian online casinos while improving service quality for players. As more operators in Lagos and other states deploy these solutions, customers can expect more frequent game releases and smoother gameplay across platforms.
Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/other/game-aggregation-is-reshaping-the-online-casino-experience/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Payaza Unveils AI-Driven Shopaza Platform in Lagos, Targets Cross-Border Trade for African Merchants
Launch event draws fintech leaders as firm promises seamless payments and expanded market access for SMEs across Africa
Launch event draws fintech leaders as firm promises seamless payments and expanded market access for SMEs across Africa
Payaza Africa Limited on Thursday launched Shopaza, a new artificial intelligence-powered e-commerce platform in Lagos, aiming to help Nigerian and African merchants sell products and receive payments more efficiently across multiple countries. The unveiling took place at a high-profile event attended by industry stakeholders including Taiwo Adeeko, Country Manager, Nigeria and VP, Global Acquiring at Payaza; Tolulope Atomori, Co-Founder and Group CPO; and Shola Asiru, Chief Marketing Officer.
According to Payaza executives, Shopaza is designed to simplify cross-border commerce by enabling businesses to set up digital storefronts that leverage AI tools for inventory management, customer engagement, and payment processing. “Shopaza will make it easier for African SMEs to access new markets and receive payments with less friction,” Adeeko said during his remarks at the launch.
The platform’s launch comes at a time when many Nigerian small businesses face difficulties with international transactions due to currency fluctuations and limited payment infrastructure. By introducing an AI-powered solution tailored for local conditions, Payaza hopes to bridge gaps in digital trade and support economic growth in the continent’s fast-expanding fintech sector.
The event featured other key figures such as Kehinde Omotoso, Head of Engineering; Tití Itelima, Group SVP Projects; Esther Afia, Product Manager; and representatives from partner organisations including Yemi Euba of Keystone Bank. Industry observers say Shopaza could increase competitiveness for local merchants by automating routine tasks and providing analytics-driven insights on sales trends.
With Nigeria’s fintech industry experiencing rapid growth—supported by government policies encouraging digital transformation—Shopaza’s debut signals fresh momentum for technology-driven commerce solutions. Payaza stated that onboarding for merchants will commence immediately, while further updates on product features are expected in the coming months.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Declares June 29–July 3 National Learning Assessment Week in All States
Education Ministry rolls out first nationwide test to measure literacy and numeracy, urges full cooperation from schools
Education Ministry rolls out first nationwide test to measure literacy and numeracy, urges full cooperation from schools
The Federal Government has set Monday, June 29, to Friday, July 3, 2026, as National Learning Assessment (NLA) Week, marking the first ever nationwide evaluation of learning outcomes across basic education schools in Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja as part of ongoing reforms to address persistent gaps in foundational skills among Nigerian pupils.
According to the ministry, the assessment will not serve as a certification exam but will instead focus on measuring system-wide delivery in core areas such as literacy and numeracy. The exercise is expected to involve both public and private basic education schools nationwide, with coordination from state education authorities and examination bodies. A pilot phase had earlier been conducted in Benue, Gombe, Jigawa, Enugu, Delta and Oyo states to test tools and operational readiness ahead of the national rollout.
Nigeria’s education sector has long grappled with challenges such as high numbers of out-of-school children and uneven learning outcomes across geopolitical zones. The NLA is designed to provide data-driven insights into what children are actually learning in classrooms, which officials say will help shape future policies and improve teacher training. “This assessment is a critical step towards ensuring no learner is left behind,” a senior official at the Ministry of Education said during a press briefing.
The ministry added that findings from the assessment would inform curriculum reviews and support ongoing digital reforms like learner tracking systems. Educators across the country have been urged to cooperate fully with authorities during the week-long exercise. “We are calling on all stakeholders—school administrators, teachers, parents—to give their maximum support so we can get an accurate picture of our system’s strengths and weaknesses,” the official noted.
Operational guidelines detailing participation requirements and logistics are expected to be released by relevant agencies in coming days. Schools have been advised to commence final preparations ahead of NLA Week as government intensifies efforts to improve accountability in Nigeria’s basic education sector.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/fg-national-learning-assessment-week-2026061909455596679
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