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Oyetola Hosts Gambian Officials in Lagos, Strengthens Seafarers’ Certification and Maritime Digitisation Ties

NIMASA, Gambia Maritime Administration collaborate on medical certification, digital records and regional seafarer standards

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NIMASA, Gambia Maritime Administration collaborate on medical certification, digital records and regional seafarer standards

Minister of Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola on Tuesday welcomed a delegation from the Gambia Maritime Administration (GMA) to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) headquarters in Lagos, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to stronger regional cooperation on seafarers’ documentation and maritime sector digitisation. The four-day study visit, which began this week, focused on harmonising procedures for issuing seafarers’ medical certificates, conducting professional examinations and enhancing digital record-keeping across both countries.

During the engagement, NIMASA officials led their Gambian counterparts through Nigeria’s existing frameworks for seafarer certification and the adoption of digital solutions to boost transparency and compliance. The Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola—represented by Executive Director of Operations Fatai Adeyemi—noted that such collaborations are vital for ensuring both countries’ compliance with international maritime labour standards and facilitating mutual recognition of seafarer qualifications within West Africa.

Nigeria’s push for digitisation comes as the maritime industry faces increasing global scrutiny around crew welfare, document authenticity and cross-border mobility. According to NIMASA officials, improved digital systems will not only help curb fraud but also speed up verification processes for Nigerian and Gambian seafarers seeking work with international shipping lines. The two agencies also discussed best practices for managing medical records and standardising examinations to ensure safety at sea.

Mobereola described the visit as a testament to the strong diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Gambia, stating: “This engagement provides valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange and positions both our countries as leaders in maritime administration in the sub-region.” The Gambian delegation echoed this sentiment, expressing readiness to implement lessons learned from Nigeria’s approach to regulatory oversight.

Both sides agreed to develop follow-up programmes aimed at continuous training and joint monitoring of certification processes. Stakeholders expect that enhanced documentation integrity will make Nigerian and Gambian seafarers more competitive globally while strengthening regional shipping operations.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/nigeria-gambia-strengthen-seafarers-documentation-maritime-digitisation/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Senate Voids Arrest Threat Against Former NNPC GMD Kyari Over Alleged ₦210trn Misappropriation

Upper chamber withdraws earlier order summoning ex-NNPC chief Mele Kyari in Abuja over missing funds allegations

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June 11, 2026

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Upper chamber withdraws earlier order summoning ex-NNPC chief Mele Kyari in Abuja over missing funds allegations

The Senate on Thursday in Abuja nullified its previous directive seeking the arrest of former Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, over an alleged ₦210 trillion missing oil revenue. The decision followed a review of the committee’s earlier resolution that had threatened legal action against Kyari if he failed to appear before lawmakers.

Senators had initially issued a summon after concerns were raised about the whereabouts of ₦210 trillion reportedly accrued from crude oil sales, sparking public debate over transparency in Nigeria’s petroleum sector. However, during plenary on Thursday, the chamber resolved to set aside the arrest order and continue its probe through conventional legislative channels.

The issue of alleged missing oil revenue has drawn significant attention, especially as Nigeria faces mounting fiscal pressures and declining foreign reserves. The controversy emerged when a Senate committee investigating crude oil receipts claimed that huge sums had not been properly accounted for by NNPCL under Kyari’s leadership. The matter has become a focal point for calls for accountability within the oil and gas sector.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio (APC, Akwa Ibom North-West) said at the session that “the Senate must follow due process” in addressing the matter, adding that further actions will be based on findings from ongoing investigations. No official statement was immediately released by Kyari or NNPCL regarding the Senate’s latest decision.

With this development, the Senate is expected to proceed with its inquiry into crude oil sales and remittances, focusing on ensuring proper oversight rather than punitive measures. Stakeholders in the sector have called for transparent handling of public resources to rebuild trust among Nigerians.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/886877-updated-missing-%e2%82%a6210-trillion-senate-nullifies-arrest-threat-against-ex-md-kyari.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Mexico’s Quiñones Scores First Goal of 2026 World Cup in Opening Match

Forward strikes early as tournament kicks off in Mexico City, giving hosts a strong start to group stage campaign

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June 11, 2026

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Forward strikes early as tournament kicks off in Mexico City, giving hosts a strong start to group stage campaign

Mexico’s forward, Julián Quiñones, scored the first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the opening match held on Thursday in Mexico City. The goal came in the early minutes of the encounter, setting the tone for the host nation’s campaign in front of a packed Estadio Azteca.

Quiñones found the net after a swift attacking move, capitalising on a defensive lapse by the opposition to put Mexico ahead. The home crowd erupted as Mexico secured an early lead, with fans hopeful that this strong start will propel their team further in the tournament. The match marks the beginning of group stage fixtures for all participating teams.

The opening ceremony featured cultural displays and remarks from FIFA officials, highlighting the significance of Mexico hosting football’s biggest event for a record third time. Local supporters expressed excitement over Quiñones’ performance, while analysts say his early goal could boost team morale as they face tough opponents in their group.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Mexico for successfully hosting the opener and praised Quiñones for his decisive play. Mexican national team coach Diego Cocca said after the match that scoring first at home was important for confidence, adding: “We are proud to start well and will continue to work hard.”

With this victory, Mexico takes an early advantage in their group standings. They will return to action in a few days as matches continue across co-host cities in North America. Supporters are optimistic that Quiñones’ performance signals a promising run for El Tri on home soil.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/886976-mexicos-quinones-scores-first-goal-of-2026-world-cup.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Oyo State Authority Seizes Livestock Over Illegal Grazing in Iseyin LGA

Move follows farmers’ complaints of crop destruction as Rule of Law Enforcement intensifies clampdown on open grazing

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June 11, 2026

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Move follows farmers’ complaints of crop destruction as Rule of Law Enforcement intensifies clampdown on open grazing

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has confiscated livestock found grazing illegally in Apata Olomo, along Ado-Awaye Road, Iseyin Local Government Area (LGA), following a series of petitions from local farmers. The enforcement action was carried out on Thursday after farmers alleged that herders’ animals had encroached on farmlands, destroyed crops, and threatened their means of livelihood.

According to a statement issued by Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd.), Chairperson of OYRLEA, the operation was prompted by mounting complaints from the affected community. The enforcement team—led by retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Francis Ojoomo and accompanied by Kofoworola Akinbode, Chief of Staff to the chairperson, as well as security personnel—visited the area to verify the allegations before impounding animals found in violation of state regulations.

Justice Aderemi explained that the team confirmed reports of open grazing contrary to Oyo State’s livestock management laws. She stated that such activities undermine local food security and threaten peace between farmers and herders in the region. “The enforcement operation was initiated following petitions received from farmers within the community, who alleged that the activities of some herders had led to the destruction of farmlands and the consumption of agricultural produce,” Aderemi said.

The crackdown forms part of wider efforts by Oyo State authorities to enforce legislation banning open grazing and promote sustainable livestock management. While affected herders were not immediately available for comment, OYRLEA reiterated its commitment to protecting agricultural livelihoods and maintaining order in rural communities.

Justice Aderemi emphasised that further operations would continue across Oyo State as at when necessary, urging all livestock owners to comply with relevant regulations or face similar sanctions. The authority also encouraged residents to report violations promptly for swift intervention.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/agro-care/oyo-impounds-livestock-over-illegal-grazing-in-iseyin/

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