Nigeria News (Standard)
Senate Panel Clears Nigeria Customs of ₦62 Billion Non-Remittance Allegation
Upper chamber’s committee says audit query on missing funds was based on procedural misunderstanding, not actual revenue loss
Upper chamber’s committee says audit query on missing funds was based on procedural misunderstanding, not actual revenue loss
The Senate Public Accounts Committee has cleared the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) over an audit query alleging non-remittance of ₦62 billion to the Federation Account. The panel’s decision was announced in Abuja on Tuesday, following a detailed review of the Auditor-General’s report and responses from Customs officials.
The committee, led by its chairman, conducted a session where representatives from the NCS presented documents and explanations addressing concerns raised by the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation. The audit had flagged discrepancies in remittances between certain years, prompting scrutiny from lawmakers tasked with fiscal oversight.
This development comes as Nigeria continues to tighten its revenue monitoring processes amidst economic pressures and calls for greater transparency in public finance management. The allegations against Customs had raised public concern due to the large sum involved and the agency’s critical role in funding government operations through import duties and levies.
According to findings presented at the hearing, the Senate committee determined that the reported shortfall stemmed from a misunderstanding of accounting procedures rather than any actual diversion or loss of funds. “There is no evidence that ₦62 billion was withheld or diverted by Nigeria Customs,” a committee member stated during the session. Officials from NCS maintained they had complied with all statutory remittance requirements.
With this clearance, focus now shifts to other agencies under audit review, as lawmakers emphasise that strict compliance with financial regulations remains their priority. The Senate panel said it would continue to scrutinise reports from the Auditor-General and ensure any gaps in government revenue are properly addressed.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Mbappe Strikes Twice as France Overpower Senegal in 2026 World Cup Clash
French forward leads team to victory, sending Senegal out of the tournament in high-stakes knockout fixture
French forward leads team to victory, sending Senegal out of the tournament in high-stakes knockout fixture
France defeated Senegal in a decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 encounter on Tuesday, with star forward Kylian Mbappe scoring two goals to secure his team’s place in the next round. The match, held at a packed stadium, saw the French side dominate play and ultimately send Senegal out of the competition.
From the opening whistle, France pressed hard against Senegal’s defence, creating several opportunities. Mbappe opened the scoring early in the first half, capitalising on a defensive error to put France ahead. His second goal came after the break, sealing a comfortable win for Les Bleus and ending hopes for Senegal’s continued participation in the tournament.
Senegal had entered the match with high expectations, aiming to become the first African side to reach this stage in recent years. However, France’s superior attacking play and solid defensive structure proved too much for the West African team. The result highlights ongoing challenges faced by African teams on football’s biggest stage despite improvements in squad quality and tactical awareness.
French manager Didier Deschamps praised Mbappe’s performance after the match, saying his clinical finishing made all the difference on the night. Meanwhile, Senegalese coach Aliou Cissé acknowledged his team’s efforts but admitted they struggled to contain France’s attack. No official statement has been released yet by either federation regarding future plans following the result.
With this victory, France advance further into the knockout rounds of the World Cup and strengthen their credentials as tournament favourites. The focus now shifts to their next opponents as anticipation builds among fans and analysts alike.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Trump Criticises Israel’s Lebanon Campaign, Calls for Restraint in Ongoing Conflict
Former US President urges Israeli government to reconsider military approach as regional tensions escalate
Former US President urges Israeli government to reconsider military approach as regional tensions escalate
Former United States President Donald Trump has criticised Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Lebanon, urging the Israeli government to exercise restraint as the conflict continues to escalate. Trump made the remarks on Tuesday, highlighting concerns over the humanitarian and political fallout from Israel’s operations across its northern border.
The criticism comes amid renewed hostilities between Israel and armed groups based in Lebanon, with reports of cross-border strikes and rising casualties. Trump’s comments mark a departure from his previous stance of unwavering support for Israel during his time in office, signalling a shift as violence threatens to destabilise the wider Middle East region.
Observers say Trump’s intervention could influence international response to the conflict, especially given his continued influence within Republican Party circles ahead of upcoming US elections. The situation in Lebanon has drawn global attention, with several governments and humanitarian agencies warning that further escalation may lead to a wider crisis affecting millions in the region.
While Israeli authorities have defended their actions as necessary for national security, critics argue that sustained military operations risk undermining prospects for long-term stability. As at Tuesday, there has been no formal response from the Israeli government to Trump’s remarks. Regional analysts predict that pressure from both Western leaders and Arab states may intensify calls for de-escalation in the coming days.
The international community is closely monitoring developments, with diplomatic channels expected to be activated to prevent further deterioration. Stakeholders warn that without meaningful dialogue, the situation could have lasting implications for peace and security across the Middle East.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ijebu Ode Hosts Ojude Oba 2026, Orijin Powers Cultural Showcase and Creative Expression
Annual festival in Ogun State features Orijinal Village, live performances and bold displays of Yoruba heritage
Annual festival in Ogun State features Orijinal Village, live performances and bold displays of Yoruba heritage
Ojude Oba festival drew thousands of culture enthusiasts to Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, on Monday as the 2026 edition unfolded with colourful processions, traditional regalia and a heightened focus on creative expression, supported by beverage brand Orijin. The event, held at the palace grounds, highlighted the vibrancy of Yoruba heritage through dance, music and fashion.
This year’s celebration saw the introduction of the ‘Orijinal Village’, where visitors immersed themselves in displays of art and tradition. The area featured creator moments and live performances that brought a new dimension to the festival, allowing both locals and tourists to engage with indigenous customs in real time. Attendees participated in various activities designed to honour ancestral values while embracing modern interpretations of culture.
Ojude Oba has long served as a platform for Ijebu descendants to pay homage to their king, the Awujale of Ijebuland, and to celebrate communal identity. The 2026 edition stood out for its emphasis on individuality within collective tradition, with many participants using fashion and performance as vehicles for self-expression. Organisers said the collaboration with Orijin aimed at “transforming the event into a living celebration that bridges history and contemporary creativity.”
Speaking at the event, festival coordinators emphasised that Ojude Oba is not only about cultural preservation but also about evolution. “Every year we see new forms of expression,” a lead organiser stated. “This year’s Orijinal Village has given our people another avenue to showcase what it means to be Ijebu in today’s Nigeria.”
The success of this year’s festival has sparked calls among stakeholders for continued corporate partnerships to further expand Ojude Oba’s reach and impact. Many believe that such collaborations can help sustain local traditions while appealing to new audiences across Nigeria and beyond.
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