Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Importers Face $500 Container Surcharge as Shipping Lines Hike Freight Rates
CMA CGM introduces new peak season surcharge from June 15; manufacturers and traders brace for higher import costs
CMA CGM introduces new peak season surcharge from June 15; manufacturers and traders brace for higher import costs
Importers in Lagos and other major West African ports will pay an extra $500 per container on shipments from South-East Asia starting June 15, following a fresh peak season surcharge announced by global shipping firm CMA CGM. The development comes as international shipping lines increase container freight rates in response to rising demand during the current peak season.
According to a notice released by CMA CGM on Monday, the $500 surcharge applies to both dry and refrigerated (reefer) cargoes shipped under short-term contracts from countries in South-East Asia to destinations across West Africa, including Nigeria. The company stated that the surcharge would remain in effect until further notice and is separate from basic freight rates, with other applicable charges potentially still applying.
Industry analysts say this increase is likely to impact Nigerian manufacturers, traders, and businesses who rely on imported raw materials and finished goods from Asia. Drewry, a leading maritime research group, projects continued upward pressure on container freight rates over the coming weeks as demand remains high globally. Stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime sector have frequently raised concerns about escalating shipping costs, which they argue contribute to inflationary pressures and higher prices for consumers.
In its statement, CMA CGM explained that the new tariff structure means all shippers moving goods from Asia into West Africa will now pay an additional $500 per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU). The company emphasised that the peak season surcharge is distinct from regular freight charges and urged customers to take note of all applicable fees before finalising shipments.
With the new surcharge set to take effect by mid-June, import-dependent businesses are expected to re-evaluate supply chain strategies and pricing models. Many industry watchers believe that unless ocean freight rates stabilise soon, local markets could witness further increases in the cost of imported goods.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Bandits Kill Farmer in Kaduna’s Giwa LGA, Security Agencies Launch Manhunt
Incident heightens tension in rural Kaduna as local authorities vow to boost patrols and support affected families
Incident heightens tension in rural Kaduna as local authorities vow to boost patrols and support affected families
A farmer was killed by suspected bandits in a fresh attack on a rural community in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Monday. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of 15 June 2026, has sparked concern among residents as insecurity continues to affect agrarian communities across the North-West.
According to initial accounts from local officials, the armed men stormed the village while residents were preparing for daily farming activities. The assailants reportedly targeted farmlands on the outskirts, shooting at farmers and causing villagers to flee for safety. One male farmer was confirmed killed at the scene before the attackers escaped into nearby bush.
Banditry has remained a persistent threat in Kaduna State, especially within Giwa LGA and neighbouring areas. Farmers say repeated attacks have disrupted agricultural activities and contributed to food insecurity. Community leaders noted that such incidents discourage residents from cultivating their land, with ripple effects on local economies and markets.
Security agencies have responded by intensifying patrols across affected communities. A senior police officer in Kaduna State Command, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to ongoing investigations, said: “We have deployed additional personnel to the area and are working with vigilante groups to track down those responsible.” Local authorities also assured residents that support would be provided to families affected by the violence.
As at press time, no group had claimed responsibility for the attack. Residents called on Governor Uba Sani and security stakeholders in Kaduna State to strengthen efforts against banditry. The state government is expected to convene an emergency security meeting later this week to review strategies for protecting vulnerable communities during the ongoing farming season.
Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/887734-bandits-kill-farmer-in-kaduna-community.html
Nigeria News (Standard)
Stephanie Oforka Leads Faith-Based Business Drive at Lagos LTIF 2025 Event
Ex-beauty queen steers Lagos Transformative Impact Forum, drawing attention to faith-driven entrepreneurship in Nigeria’s commercial hub
Ex-beauty queen steers Lagos Transformative Impact Forum, drawing attention to faith-driven entrepreneurship in Nigeria’s commercial hub
A major faith-based business conference, the Lagos Transformative Impact Forum (LTIF) 2025, held at Balmoral Convention Centre, Ikeja, Lagos, in November 2025, has positioned Stephanie Oforka as a leading figure in faith-driven commerce. The event gathered stakeholders and entrepreneurs from across Nigeria to discuss the role of spirituality in modern business practices.
The forum was marked by strategic sessions focused on integrating faith values into business models and promoting ethical entrepreneurship. Stephanie Oforka, who was at the forefront of the initiative, championed conversations on how spiritual principles could guide business growth and wellness programmes. Attendees noted that her leadership during the gathering provided practical insights for participants seeking to align their enterprises with their personal beliefs.
Faith-based commerce has increasingly gained prominence in Nigeria’s economic landscape, with more entrepreneurs looking to combine profit motives with spiritual fulfilment. Observers at the LTIF 2025 forum said the event underscored the potential for such forums to reshape how Nigerians approach both business and community development. Experts highlighted that platforms like LTIF offer a new pathway for SMEs and large enterprises aiming for sustainable success rooted in ethical foundations.
While official statements from government representatives were not immediately available, participants at the convention praised Oforka’s ability to bridge wellness initiatives with commercial opportunities. Many described the forum as a timely intervention for Nigerian youths and business owners grappling with economic uncertainty and value-driven decision making.
With momentum building from this year’s event, organisers indicated that plans are underway for future editions of LTIF aimed at expanding its reach across other states. Stakeholders believe the platform could become a vital fixture on Nigeria’s business calendar, encouraging more enterprises to embrace faith-based principles while contributing to national economic growth.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Troops, Security Agencies Arrest 46 Suspected Illegal Immigrants in Ogun State Operation
Arrests come as authorities intensify border surveillance; suspects transferred to immigration for further screening
Arrests come as authorities intensify border surveillance; suspects transferred to immigration for further screening
Troops working alongside other security agencies have arrested 46 individuals suspected of being illegal immigrants during a coordinated operation in Ogun State. The arrests were carried out on Monday, 15 June, as part of a broader initiative to enhance border security and monitor movement across Nigeria’s South-West corridor.
According to officials involved in the operation, the suspects were apprehended at various locations within Ogun State following intelligence-driven surveillance and routine checks. The joint task force reportedly included personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Immigration Service, and other relevant agencies, who mounted roadblocks and conducted identity verification exercises targeting persons without valid travel documents or proof of legal residency.
This development comes at a time when concerns about cross-border movement and security have heightened across the region. Ogun State shares an extensive border with neighbouring countries, making it a focal point for migration-related challenges. Authorities say such operations are critical to curbing illegal entry and preventing criminal activities that may stem from unregulated migration.
Security agencies have since handed over all 46 suspects to the Nigeria Immigration Service for detailed screening and possible repatriation. A senior officer involved in the operation said: “We will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure only those with proper documentation can reside in Nigeria.”
The Nigeria Immigration Service has not yet released further details on the nationalities or backgrounds of those arrested. As at press time, no opposition or civil society response had been made available regarding the mass arrest. Officials say similar operations are planned in other border communities in coming weeks as government steps up efforts to secure Nigeria’s frontiers.
