Nigeria News (Standard)
Providus, Unity Bank Set to Begin Joint Operations After Merger Approval in Lagos
Regulatory green light paves way for integration of banking services; customers advised to expect transition updates
Regulatory green light paves way for integration of banking services; customers advised to expect transition updates
Providus Bank and Unity Bank have received approval to commence joint operations following a merger agreement finalised in Lagos on Friday, 26 June 2026. The decision marks a significant development in Nigeria’s financial sector, as both institutions prepare to combine their assets and customer bases under a unified brand.
According to information released on Friday, the banks will begin implementing their integration plan immediately, with a focus on ensuring minimal disruption for existing customers across all branches nationwide. The management of both banks stated that the merger is aimed at strengthening their market presence and improving access to innovative banking solutions for Nigerians.
The merger comes at a time when competition in Nigeria’s banking sector has intensified, with regulators encouraging consolidation to enhance financial stability and efficiency. Analysts say the combined entity is expected to leverage Providus’ digital banking strength and Unity Bank’s extensive branch network, positioning it as a major player in retail and corporate banking segments.
A joint statement from the management teams of Providus and Unity Bank indicated that customers should expect communication regarding account migration procedures and service updates in the coming weeks. The banks also assured depositors that all funds remain safe and that there would be no interruption in daily transactions during the transition period.
Industry observers believe this merger could trigger further consolidation within Nigeria’s financial sector as lenders seek to boost capital buffers amid evolving regulatory requirements. Both banks confirmed that regulatory compliance remains top priority throughout the integration process.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Borno Court Sentences Boko Haram Member to Death by Hanging Over 2015 Maiduguri Attacks
Landmark judgement marks rare capital conviction for terrorism in North-East; security agencies welcome verdict as deterrent
Landmark judgement marks rare capital conviction for terrorism in North-East; security agencies welcome verdict as deterrent
A Borno State High Court has sentenced a Boko Haram member to death by hanging for his involvement in the deadly 2015 attacks on Maiduguri, the state capital. The judgement was delivered on Friday, June 26, following a lengthy trial in Maiduguri that highlighted the severity of insurgency-related crimes in the North-East.
According to court proceedings, the convicted individual was found guilty of participating in coordinated assaults that left many residents dead and property destroyed during the 2015 wave of violence that shook Maiduguri. The presiding judge stated that the evidence presented proved beyond reasonable doubt that the accused played a significant role in planning and executing the attacks.
The sentencing comes at a time when security challenges persist across Borno and other North-East states, with government intensifying efforts to prosecute high-profile terrorism cases. The conviction is seen as a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against Boko Haram, which has displaced millions and claimed thousands of lives since its insurgency began.
Security agencies have described the judgement as a strong message to those involved in violent extremism. A senior officer in Maiduguri said the court’s decision will encourage further cooperation between law enforcement and communities affected by insurgency. No statement from defence counsel was available as at press time.
With this ruling, authorities are expected to speed up prosecution of other pending terrorism cases, while rights groups continue to call for fair trials and improved support for victims. The execution order underscores growing pressure on Nigeria’s judiciary to deliver justice amid ongoing security threats.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Army Rescues 53 Civilians After Dismantling ISWAP Roadblock in Borno’s Biu LGA
Troops under Operation HADIN KAI recover eight vehicles as Theatre Command urges vigilance against insurgent ambushes
Troops under Operation HADIN KAI recover eight vehicles as Theatre Command urges vigilance against insurgent ambushes
Nigerian Army troops of Sector 2, 135 Special Forces Battalion, rescued 53 civilians on Wednesday after dismantling an ISWAP roadblock along the Buratai–Kamuya Road in Biu Local Government Area, Borno State. The operation was conducted under the Joint Task Force North-East Operation HADIN KAI following reports of insurgents blocking the highway.
According to the Acting Military Information Officer, Captain Mohammed Goni, soldiers deployed at Dutse Kura observation post detected the illegal checkpoint through surveillance cameras. A Quick Reaction Force team responded swiftly to the scene and engaged the terrorists near Mangari–Dora, forcing them to abandon their position after a gun battle. The troops then cleared withdrawal routes and recovered eight vehicles seized by the insurgents.
The rescue comes amid persistent insecurity in North-East Nigeria, where groups like ISWAP and JAS have used road ambushes to abduct travellers and steal property. Roadblocks remain a major tactic for disrupting civilian movement and targeting commuters along key highways in conflict-affected areas such as Borno.
“The prompt action by our personnel prevented what could have been a severe hostage situation,” Captain Goni said in a press statement released by Theatre Command. He confirmed that all rescued civilians and recovered vehicles were safely escorted to Buratai town for documentation and medical checks before reuniting with their families. The command commended the troops for their professionalism and rapid response.
Military authorities are urging residents across Borno and neighbouring states to maintain vigilance and report any suspicious activities or movements to security forces. They reiterated the importance of community support for ongoing counter-insurgency operations aimed at securing major roads and preventing further attacks by armed groups in the region.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Three-Storey Building Collapse Claims Nine Lives in Satellite Town
Emergency agencies intensify rescue efforts as several victims remain trapped at Ori-Ade LCDA site
Emergency agencies intensify rescue efforts as several victims remain trapped at Ori-Ade LCDA site
Nine people have now been confirmed dead following the collapse of a three-storey residential building at Alakija, Old Ojo Road, near Alakija Bus Stop in Satellite Town, Lagos State, on Thursday. The incident, which occurred within Ori-Ade Local Council Development Area (LCDA), triggered a swift response from emergency agencies as at 11 a.m.
The building, occupied by numerous tenants and housing several businesses such as cyber cafés, phone repair shops, and a photo studio, caved in suddenly, trapping many occupants under the rubble. Rescue teams from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS) arrived at the scene shortly after the collapse to commence search-and-rescue operations. According to LSFRS officials, firefighters from Ijegun-Egba Fire Station reached the site around 11:49 a.m. and joined ongoing efforts to save trapped individuals.
Building collapses remain a recurring challenge in Lagos due to factors including poor construction practices and disregard for safety standards. Satellite Town has witnessed similar incidents in recent years, raising concerns among residents about regulatory enforcement and urban safety. Many affected families are now left seeking information on missing loved ones as rescue operations continue into the evening.
Speaking at the scene, an official of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service said efforts were ongoing to locate survivors beneath the debris. “We are working closely with other agencies to ensure all those trapped are rescued or accounted for,” he stated. As at press time, authorities had not released an official figure for those still missing.
Government has appealed for calm while urging residents to cooperate with emergency responders. The incident is expected to prompt renewed scrutiny on building approvals and monitoring within Lagos metropolis. Meanwhile, further investigations are underway to ascertain the immediate cause of the collapse and prevent future occurrences.
Borno Court Sentences Boko Haram Member to Death by Hanging Over 2015 Maiduguri Attacks
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