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Nigeria News (Standard)

Lagos Receives First Batch of 270 Nigerians Repatriated from South Africa After Xenophobic Attacks

Federal government funds evacuation as Foreign Affairs Minister confirms waivers for immigration offences, pledges support for returnees

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23 hours ago

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Federal government funds evacuation as Foreign Affairs Minister confirms waivers for immigration offences, pledges support for returnees

The first group of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic violence is expected to arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Thursday morning. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in Abuja on Tuesday that the returnees—comprising at least 270 individuals—will travel aboard an Air Peace flight departing Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night.

According to Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the repatriation flight was initially scheduled for Monday but shifted to Wednesday due to unforeseen logistical issues. Ebienfa stated that upon arrival in Lagos, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling before being provided with assistance and reunited with their families. The federal government has fully funded the exercise and put reception measures in place.

The development comes amid rising concerns about the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa after a series of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals. The evacuation exercise, which was delayed for additional screening and documentation with South African authorities, marks a significant move by Nigeria’s government to protect its citizens abroad. Over 1,000 Nigerians were reported to have participated in the screening process, though Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that this figure continues to increase.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu further explained that Nigeria’s High Commission in Pretoria negotiated waivers with South African officials so that those with immigration-related offences could join the repatriation flights instead of facing detention. “Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families,” Ebienfa said in his statement.

The Ministry stated that it will continue coordination with relevant agencies to ensure smooth reintegration for all returnees. Officials confirmed that subsequent flights may be arranged as more Nigerians request evacuation from South Africa.

Source: https://punchng.com/breaking-first-batch-of-nigerians-repatriated-from-safrica-arrives-thursday/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

CBN to Revise Guidelines for Financial Holding Companies in Abuja

Central Bank moves to update regulatory framework, aiming to strengthen oversight of Nigeria’s financial conglomerates

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14 minutes ago

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June 11, 2026

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Central Bank moves to update regulatory framework, aiming to strengthen oversight of Nigeria’s financial conglomerates

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced plans to review the rules governing financial holding companies, signalling a fresh move to strengthen oversight of the country’s financial sector. The development was made public in Abuja on Thursday, 11 June 2026, as part of ongoing efforts by the apex bank to align regulations with evolving industry realities.

According to the CBN, the review will focus on updating existing guidelines that oversee how financial holding companies operate within Nigeria’s banking ecosystem. These companies typically control multiple subsidiaries across banking, insurance, asset management and other financial services. The new rules are expected to address operational risks and ensure that holding structures do not undermine the stability of individual subsidiaries or the wider financial system.

The move comes amid growing concerns over compliance gaps and risk management practices among some holding companies. In recent years, stakeholders have called for clearer boundaries and stricter supervisory mechanisms to prevent abuses such as regulatory arbitrage or concentration of risk. The CBN’s planned revision is seen as an attempt to address these issues before they escalate.

While specific details of the proposed changes have not yet been disclosed, industry experts expect tighter reporting requirements and improved corporate governance standards. The apex bank said it will engage with relevant stakeholders—including commercial banks and non-bank subsidiaries—before finalising the revised framework.

The CBN is expected to release a draft guideline for public input in the coming weeks. Observers say the updated rules could have significant implications for conglomerates operating under holding structures, as well as for investors seeking clarity on sector stability.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/887029-cbn-to-revise-rules-governing-financial-holding-companies.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

NCAA Launches Probe Into Asaba Aircraft Roadway Landing Incident

Aviation authority begins investigation after plane lands on public road in Delta State, raises safety concerns

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24 minutes ago

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June 11, 2026

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Aviation authority begins investigation after plane lands on public road in Delta State, raises safety concerns

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has commenced an official investigation into the unusual landing of an aircraft on a public roadway in Asaba, Delta State, on Thursday. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, has sparked concern among stakeholders about air safety protocols and enforcement in the country.

According to initial reports, the aircraft made an unscheduled landing on a major road within Asaba metropolis. Eyewitnesses described seeing the plane come to a halt amid surprised motorists and pedestrians, but there were no reported injuries or casualties as at press time. NCAA officials arrived at the scene shortly after to secure the area and begin preliminary inquiries.

This incident has drawn attention to Nigeria’s aviation safety standards, particularly regarding flight operations near populated urban areas. Airspace regulation is a recurring issue in Nigeria’s aviation sector, especially given previous incidents involving runway incursions and emergency landings. The NCAA’s response is being closely watched by both industry professionals and residents who expressed concern over possible lapses that could endanger lives.

An NCAA spokesperson confirmed that a comprehensive probe is underway to determine the circumstances leading to the event. “We are treating this as a serious safety matter and will examine all relevant factors before releasing our findings,” the spokesperson said in a written statement. No opposition or external aviation experts have issued formal comments as at Thursday evening.

The outcome of this investigation is expected to inform future policy measures aimed at preventing similar occurrences. The NCAA said its final report would be made public and promised that any parties found culpable would face appropriate sanctions under Nigerian civil aviation regulations.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/887026-air-safety-agency-begins-probe-of-asaba-roadway-landing.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Tinubu to Address Nigerians Nationwide on Democracy Day, Presidency Confirms

President’s live broadcast scheduled for Friday amid public calls for reforms and remembrance of June 12 significance

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29 minutes ago

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June 11, 2026

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President’s live broadcast scheduled for Friday amid public calls for reforms and remembrance of June 12 significance

President Bola Tinubu will address the nation in a live broadcast on Friday, marking this year’s Democracy Day celebrations across Nigeria. The announcement comes as the country prepares to commemorate June 12, a day recognised for its pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic history and a public holiday nationwide.

According to the presidency, the address will be broadcast from Abuja and is expected to focus on the state of the nation, ongoing reforms, and government’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions. This yearly presidential speech has become tradition since June 12 was officially designated as Democracy Day in honour of the annulled 1993 elections widely considered Nigeria’s freest poll.

Democracy Day serves as a reminder of the struggles that led to civilian rule after years of military dictatorship. Many Nigerians are looking forward to President Tinubu’s message against a backdrop of economic hardship, security challenges and heightened expectations for reforms promised by his administration. Civil society groups and opposition parties have already called on government to use the occasion to recommit to electoral transparency, justice sector improvements and policies addressing poverty and youth unemployment.

While details of Tinubu’s planned remarks have not been released as at Thursday evening, sources within Aso Rock say the speech will touch on national unity and highlight progress achieved since his assumption of office. The main opposition parties—PDP and LP—have urged government to back up rhetoric with concrete actions that improve livelihoods and protect civil liberties.

The president’s speech will be aired on national television and radio stations from 7:00 am. Nigerians are expected to participate in various commemorative activities across states as part of the Democracy Day programme.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/887025-democracy-day-tinubu-to-address-nigerians-friday.html

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