Nigeria News (Standard)
NHRC Urges Immediate Action to Curb Drug Abuse Among Youths Nationwide
Commission raises alarm on rising substance abuse, calls for government intervention and stronger enforcement measures
Commission raises alarm on rising substance abuse, calls for government intervention and stronger enforcement measures
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for urgent steps to address the growing problem of drug abuse among Nigerian youths, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to public health and national development. The commission made this appeal on Friday, 26 June, highlighting the situation during a public statement in Abuja.
According to NHRC, recent observations indicate a worrying increase in substance abuse across various states, with many young Nigerians turning to illicit drugs due to unemployment, social pressures, and lack of awareness about the dangers involved. The commission stressed that immediate government intervention is needed to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
The NHRC emphasised that drug abuse not only endangers the lives of young people but also contributes to rising crime rates and undermines the country’s socio-economic progress. “We are seeing more cases of addiction and related offences among youths,” the commission noted, urging relevant authorities at federal and state levels to prioritise prevention programmes, rehabilitation centres, and stricter enforcement of existing laws.
While commending ongoing efforts by some agencies and civil society organisations, the NHRC insisted that a coordinated national response is required. The commission called on security agencies to intensify their crackdown on drug trafficking networks while advocating for increased funding for mental health services. No official response from the Ministry of Health or the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) was available as at press time.
Stakeholders are expected to meet next month in Abuja for a national summit on youth development where drug abuse prevention will be among key agenda items. The NHRC said it will continue monitoring government responses and push for policies that protect vulnerable populations from the dangers of substance misuse.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigerian Security Operatives Arrest Seven Suspected Terrorists Returning From Hajj in Abuja
Authorities say the suspects, intercepted at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, are linked to major violent attacks across North-East
Authorities say the suspects, intercepted at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, are linked to major violent attacks across North-East
Security agencies in Abuja on Friday arrested seven individuals identified as notorious terrorist suspects upon their arrival from the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The arrests took place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, according to an official government statement released on 26 June.
Officials said the suspects, whose identities were not immediately disclosed, are believed to have participated in several high-profile attacks and abductions across the North-East geopolitical zone. Security operatives acted on intelligence that the men were returning from Mecca and coordinated their apprehension as soon as they landed in Nigeria’s capital city.
The development underscores continued efforts by Nigerian authorities to disrupt terrorist networks operating within and outside the country. Over recent years, security forces have intensified surveillance of suspected extremists travelling abroad, especially during mass religious gatherings such as Hajj and Umrah. This latest operation is part of ongoing measures to prevent regrouping of criminal elements targeting communities in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.
A senior security official, who confirmed the arrests on Friday, described the operation as a ‘major breakthrough’ in ongoing counter-terrorism operations. The official said investigations are underway and assured that due process would be followed: “These individuals have long been on our watchlist for their alleged roles in orchestrating attacks. They will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted if found culpable.”
As at press time, details regarding any additional suspects or planned follow-up operations had not been made public. Security analysts say increased monitoring of international travel routes has become crucial as armed groups seek to exploit pilgrimage seasons for covert movement. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NDC Lawmakers in Abuja Reject Court Ruling Cancelling Party Registration, Allege Suppression of Opposition
Opposition members claim recent judgement threatens multiparty democracy, call for urgent intervention by electoral authorities
Opposition members claim recent judgement threatens multiparty democracy, call for urgent intervention by electoral authorities
Lawmakers representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja on Friday condemned a recent court decision voiding the party’s registration, alleging it is part of a wider scheme to weaken opposition voices ahead of the next general elections. The development has sparked heated debate at the National Assembly as stakeholders question the implications for Nigeria’s political landscape.
The court ruling, delivered earlier this week in Abuja Federal High Court, declared the NDC’s registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) null and void. NDC lawmakers argued that the judgement is a direct attack on Nigeria’s multiparty system and could undermine fair competition in upcoming polls. They further alleged that powerful interests were working behind the scenes to prevent viable opposition parties from participating effectively.
The controversy comes as Nigeria prepares for key off-cycle governorship and legislative elections in several states, with political observers warning that any move perceived as targeting opposition groups could erode public trust in democratic institutions. The NDC, though not one of Nigeria’s largest parties, has fielded candidates in multiple constituencies and is seen by supporters as an important alternative voice.
In their reaction, NDC lawmakers called on INEC and relevant authorities to respect the rule of law and uphold party rights under Nigeria’s constitution. “This judgement is a dangerous precedent that threatens to silence dissenting voices,” one NDC representative said during a session at the House of Representatives. The lawmakers urged civil society organisations and international partners to closely monitor developments related to party deregistration.
It remains unclear whether the NDC will appeal the ruling or seek other legal remedies. Analysts say how authorities handle this case could set an important benchmark for future disputes over party registration and opposition rights in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Tinubu Signs NIMC Act 2026 Into Law, Reshaping National Identity Management
Presidential assent marks major update to identity regulation; stakeholders expect improved data integration and service delivery
Presidential assent marks major update to identity regulation; stakeholders expect improved data integration and service delivery
President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law in Abuja on Friday, 26 June, formalising a new legal framework for the management of Nigerians’ identity data nationwide. The move signals government’s intent to strengthen digital governance and enhance coordination of personal information across federal agencies.
The signing took place at the Presidential Villa, following the passage of the bill by the National Assembly. The new NIMC Act is expected to streamline processes for national identification, covering registration, issuance, and verification of citizen data. With this development, government aims to address long-standing challenges in identity management and improve access to public services tied to verified national identity.
The overhaul comes amid growing concern about gaps in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and the security implications of fragmented identity databases. In recent years, difficulties in accessing unified records have complicated service delivery for millions and hindered efforts to tackle fraud and insecurity. The updated act is anticipated to create a stronger regulatory base for integrating biometric and demographic data under a single authority.
Officials say the law will enable NIMC to collaborate more closely with other agencies on issues ranging from voter registration to financial inclusion. Stakeholders in ICT and civil society have welcomed the development but call for transparent implementation. As at press time, opposition parties had yet to issue a formal response.
Implementation guidelines are expected within coming weeks, as government prepares to roll out updated protocols for registration centres nationwide. The NIMC Act 2026 is seen as a critical step towards achieving a seamless national identification system that meets international best practices.
Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/891008-tinubu-signs-nimc-act-2026-into-law.html
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