Nigeria News (Standard)
Over 8,000 Unemployed Nigerians Withdraw ₦12.1bn Pension Savings Amid Rising Economic Hardship
PenCom data shows spike in early pension withdrawals as inflation and joblessness squeeze households nationwide
PenCom data shows spike in early pension withdrawals as inflation and joblessness squeeze households nationwide
More than 8,000 jobless Nigerians accessed a total of ₦12.11 billion from their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) between October and December 2025, according to figures released by the National Pension Commission (PenCom). The withdrawals, permitted under the Pension Reform Act 2014 for those unemployed for at least four months, reflect mounting financial pressure on citizens across the country.
PenCom data confirmed that 8,082 unemployed workers withdrew up to 25 percent of their pension balances in the last quarter of 2025. Many beneficiaries reportedly used the funds to cope with high living costs while seeking new employment. On average, each individual accessed about ₦1.5 million from their RSA during this period.
The surge in withdrawals comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with persistent inflation, currency depreciation and rising costs of food, transportation and housing. Many sacked workers face prolonged periods of unemployment with limited options for financial support. As at December 2025, early pension withdrawals have become a critical safety net for thousands navigating economic uncertainty.
Financial experts have cautioned that while early access to RSAs provides immediate relief for jobless contributors, frequent withdrawals could undermine long-term retirement security for many households. “These savings are meant to provide income after active service ends. Dipping into them too soon leaves future senior citizens vulnerable,” one industry analyst noted.
Despite such concerns, PenCom’s latest figures highlight the difficult choices facing Nigerian families as they balance present survival against future financial stability. The trend signals increasing reliance on pension funds as an emergency lifeline in a challenging economic environment.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Oluwaseyi Features as Canada Defeats Qatar in Record FIFA World Cup Victory
Canadian team sets new World Cup record with emphatic win; Nigerian-born Oluwaseyi makes tournament history
Canadian team sets new World Cup record with emphatic win; Nigerian-born Oluwaseyi makes tournament history
Canada achieved a milestone at the ongoing FIFA World Cup on Friday, June 19, 2026, by defeating Qatar in a record-setting match that saw Nigerian-born forward, Oluwaseyi, take part in the historic victory. The encounter, which took place at an international venue, marks Canada’s most decisive win in World Cup history.
The Canadian squad dominated proceedings from the opening whistle, overwhelming their Qatari opponents with a commanding display that broke previous team records for margin of victory at the global tournament. Oluwaseyi, who has roots in Nigeria, contributed to the team’s performance as Canada secured its place in World Cup history.
This result is significant for Canadian football, which has struggled to make a strong impression on the world stage in past tournaments. For many Nigerians and members of the diaspora community, Oluwaseyi’s involvement highlights the growing impact of players with Nigerian heritage on international football.
Officials from the Canadian Football Association described the match as a turning point for their national team. No official statement was available from Qatari representatives at press time. Analysts say the victory could boost morale and raise expectations for Canada ahead of their next fixtures.
With this result, Canada now looks forward to building on their momentum as they progress further in the competition. Football enthusiasts across Nigeria and beyond will be watching closely as Oluwaseyi and his teammates aim for more historic achievements on football’s biggest stage.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nasarawa FA Condemns Attack on Referees After Federation Cup Clash in Lafia
Referees’ body urges security agencies to investigate incident, warns violence could derail Nigeria’s football competitions
Referees’ body urges security agencies to investigate incident, warns violence could derail Nigeria’s football competitions
The Nasarawa State Football Association has strongly condemned the recent attack on match officials following a Federation Cup fixture involving Nasarawa United in Lafia on Friday, 19 June 2026. The referees’ body described the incident as unacceptable and called for urgent action to safeguard the integrity of football competitions in the country.
According to reports, the violence erupted after the conclusion of the Federation Cup tie, when aggrieved supporters allegedly assaulted referees who officiated the match. Eyewitnesses said that the officials were targeted as they were leaving the stadium premises. Security personnel intervened to restore order and ensure the safety of those involved.
Attacks on match officials have become a growing concern within Nigerian football, with stakeholders warning that such incidents threaten not only the safety of referees but also undermine efforts to promote fair play and professionalism in the sport. The latest incident has reignited calls for better security measures at sporting venues and stricter enforcement of disciplinary codes.
In a statement issued after the incident, Nasarawa State Football Association officials urged law enforcement agencies to investigate and bring perpetrators to book. “We will not tolerate any form of violence against referees or other officials during football matches,” an association spokesperson said. The body also appealed to fans and club officials across Nigeria to respect match outcomes and allow due process for grievances.
The Nigeria Football Federation is expected to review reports from Friday’s game and may impose sanctions if individuals or clubs are found culpable. Stakeholders say sustained attacks could discourage refereeing talent and jeopardise Nigeria’s participation in regional competitions if left unchecked.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Amusan, Ajayi, Ogazi, Enekwechi Lead Top Athletes at Lagos Commonwealth Games Trials
Star-studded line-up expected as Nigeria holds selection trials in Lagos ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games
Star-studded line-up expected as Nigeria holds selection trials in Lagos ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games
Nigeria’s leading athletes, including world champion Tobi Amusan, sprinter Rosemary Chukwuma Ajayi, quarter-miler Chidi Ogazi and shot put specialist Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, are set to headline the Commonwealth Games selection trials scheduled to hold in Lagos on Friday, 19 June 2026. The event will determine the country’s representatives for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games.
The trials, which bring together both established stars and emerging talents, are expected to feature intense competition across track and field events at the main athletics stadium in Lagos. Organisers have confirmed that top performers from the trials will form the core of Nigeria’s athletics team to compete on the global stage later this year.
This selection exercise is considered crucial for Nigeria’s medal hopes at the Commonwealth Games, as the country seeks to build on its impressive showing at previous editions. With Amusan and other international medallists participating, stakeholders believe Nigeria stands a good chance of improving its medal haul. Athletics has traditionally contributed significantly to Nigeria’s overall tally in multi-sport competitions.
Although organisers have yet to release an official statement regarding the number of athletes expected or potential surprises in team selection, anticipation remains high among fans and officials alike. The presence of high-profile names such as Amusan and Enekwechi has generated optimism about Team Nigeria’s prospects.
After Friday’s trials, selected athletes will enter intensive training camps ahead of their departure for the Commonwealth Games. Athletics observers say performance at these trials could define Nigeria’s fortunes at this year’s competition.
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