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  • ISWAP Attacks Borno School During NECO Exam, Abducts Students, Kills Teacher

    The ongoing National Examinations Council (NECO) examination was disrupted in Borno State on Monday after suspected ISWAP terrorists attacked a secondary school in Lassa community, Askira/Uba Local Government Area, abducting an unspecified number of students and killing a teacher.

    Attack disrupts NECO examination

    The attackers reportedly stormed Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, at about 9:00 a.m. while students were writing their NECO Senior Secondary Certificate Examination.

    Witnesses said the gunmen arrived on motorcycles and fired several gunshots into the air, sending students, teachers and residents fleeing for safety.

    Besides the students, some women selling food around the school premises were also abducted during the attack.

    Police confirm abduction

    The Borno State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying one teacher was killed while another sustained injuries during the attack.

    Police spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, said an unspecified number of students were taken away by the attackers, while some others remain unaccounted for.

    He added that security personnel immediately responded to the attack and prevented what could have been a larger abduction.

    Rescue operation underway

    Security operatives, including the military, police and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have launched a joint operation to rescue the victims.

    Authorities said at least seven abducted persons have so far been rescued, while efforts are continuing to locate those still missing.

    Security teams are combing nearby forests and surrounding communities as investigations continue.

    The attack adds to growing security concerns in Nigeria’s North-East, where insurgent groups have repeatedly targeted schools despite ongoing military operations in the region. As of the time of filing this report, neither NECO nor the Federal Ministry of Education had issued an official statement on the incident or its impact on the examination.

     

  • NELFUND Warns Schools Against Withholding Students’ Tuition Refunds, Arbitrary Fee Hikes

    The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has warned tertiary institutions against delaying or refusing to refund tuition fees paid by students before the disbursement of student loans, while also raising concerns over arbitrary increases in school charges.

    The agency said such practices undermine the objective of the Student Loan Scheme, which was established to remove financial barriers to higher education rather than create additional burdens for students and their families.

    NELFUND raises concern

    In a statement issued on Monday, NELFUND said it had received reports that some institutions were withholding refunds due to students whose tuition had already been paid before the loan disbursements were made.

    “The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has noted with concern reports of some tertiary institutions delaying or refusing to refund students whose tuition fees had already been paid before NELFUND disbursements, as well as arbitrary increases in tuition and other institutional charges,” the statement said.

    Agency begins engagement with schools

    NELFUND said it had commenced engagements with the affected institutions and relevant authorities to ensure that eligible students receive their refunds without delay.

    The Fund also stressed that institutional charges must remain fair, transparent and consistent with the objectives of the student loan programme.

    According to the agency, it will not tolerate any action that places unnecessary financial pressure on beneficiaries of the scheme.

    Students advised to engage institutions

    The development follows reports that some students who paid their tuition out of pocket before receiving loan approval have struggled to recover their money after NELFUND paid the same fees directly to their institutions.

    Although the agency did not identify the institutions involved, it said targeted interventions were already underway.

    NELFUND advised affected students to continue engaging their institutions while efforts to resolve the issue continue.

     

  • Sunday Igboho Says Injured Iru Ekun Operatives Have Recovered After Oyo Forest Ambush

    Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, says members of his private security outfit, Iru Ekun, who were injured during an ambush in the Old Oyo National Park have recovered from their wounds.

    Igboho disclosed this in a video shared on Sunday, where he also dismissed rumours about his health and assured supporters that he was safe.

    Igboho reassures supporters

    Addressing his followers, the activist said both he and the injured operatives were in good condition and remained committed to tackling criminal activities in the South-West.

    “I greet you, my fathers and mothers. It’s your son, Sunday Igboho. My brothers and sisters all over the world, today is the 28th of June, 2026. Rumours have been going around, but I’m using this opportunity to tell all my loved ones around the world that I am okay.

    “Those who sustained injuries are now okay. We will not rest until we ensure that those disturbing the peace of our land depart,” he said.

    How the attack happened

    The update follows an attack on members of the Iru Ekun outfit during an operation inside the Old Oyo National Park in Oyo State.

    The operatives were reportedly tracking suspected kidnappers and armed criminals believed to be operating within the forest reserve when they came under attack.

    Before entering the area, the team was said to have deployed surveillance drones to identify suspected criminal camps and monitor the movement of armed groups.

    Gun battle in the forest

    The operation reportedly turned into a gun battle after heavily armed men, believed to be members of cross-border criminal networks, opened fire on the operatives.

    Several members of the Iru Ekun team sustained injuries during the exchange.

    Despite the incident, Igboho insisted that his security outfit would continue its operations against criminal groups accused of terrorising communities across the South-West.

  • Tunde Perry Says Wife Gives Him One ‘Free Day’ Every Month in Marriage

    Nigerian media personality and content creator Tunde Perry has revealed that his wife allows him one “free day” every month, saying the arrangement has helped strengthen their marriage over the past 10 years.

    Perry made the disclosure during a recent TikTok Live session, where he spoke about the unique understanding he shares with his wife.

    How the arrangement works

    According to Perry, he chooses the date at the beginning of every month, and on that day, his wife neither calls him nor checks on his whereabouts.

    “My wife gives me one free day in a month to go out and chill. We’ve been married for about 10 years, so we understand ourselves. I choose the date from the beginning of the month,” he said.

    He added that once he returns home, his wife jokingly collects his phones and assigns him extra household chores.

    ‘It’s better than having two wives’

    Perry said the arrangement has strengthened their relationship and discouraged any thoughts of polygamy.

    “You must have that kind of understanding so you can enjoy your relationship. It’s not good to have two or three wives,” he said.

    When asked what would happen if one of his outings resulted in another relationship, Perry laughed off the suggestion, saying it would only cost him his next “free day.”

    Social media reacts

    The comments have generated mixed reactions online, with some users praising the couple’s level of trust and understanding, while others questioned whether such an arrangement could encourage infidelity.

    Others argued that the agreement reflects the couple’s personal choice and should not be used as a standard for other marriages.

     

  • FCCPC Denies Approving 48 New Loan Apps, Warns Against False Reports

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has dismissed reports claiming it approved 48 additional digital loan applications, describing the information as false and misleading.

    The commission said it has not expanded the list of approved digital lenders to 505, contrary to reports that circulated over the weekend. It added that no new approvals have been granted because it remains bound by a Federal High Court order suspending the implementation of its 2025 Digital Lending Regulations.

    Court order blocks fresh approvals

    According to the FCCPC, it cannot issue new approvals under the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, because the framework is currently under judicial review.

    The commission said it will continue to comply with the court order until the case is determined and will not take any action under the suspended regulations.

    Why the clarification matters

    The FCCPC noted that its approval has become a key benchmark for Nigerians seeking to identify legitimate digital loan platforms.

    Since the agency began its crackdown on abusive loan apps in 2022, it has repeatedly warned consumers against borrowing from unregistered operators accused of illegal debt recovery practices, privacy breaches and harassment. It said false reports about new approvals could expose borrowers to unlicensed platforms and create confusion within the industry.

    Background to the legal dispute

    The FCCPC introduced an interim registration framework for digital lenders in 2022 following widespread complaints about unethical practices in the sector.

    In July 2025, the agency replaced the interim framework with the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, giving operators until January 5, 2026, to comply.

    However, on April 15, 2026, the Federal High Court granted an interim order restraining the implementation of the regulations after a suit filed by the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN). The substantive hearing has been fixed for July 20, 2026.

    The commission also recalled that earlier in June it debunked similar reports linking it to fresh approvals involving fintech firms in Nigeria’s airtime credit market. It advised the public to rely only on its official communications for updates on digital lender approvals while the court case is pending.

     

  • Top 10 News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. Dangote Refinery Imports First Crude Cargoes from UAE

    Dangote Petroleum Refinery has purchased two crude oil cargoes from the United Arab Emirates, marking its first supply from the Middle East as it expands crude sourcing beyond Nigeria. The development follows improved shipping conditions in the Gulf region and forms part of the refinery’s strategy to secure stable feedstock for its 650,000 barrels-per-day facility.

    The refinery plans to process a wider mix of crude grades while reducing dependence on domestic supplies, which have faced production and allocation challenges. Industry analysts say the move strengthens operational stability and supports Nigeria’s drive toward energy security as the company targets further expansion over the coming years.

    2. Tobi Amusan Wins Paris Diamond League Title

    World record holder Tobi Amusan claimed victory in the women’s 100 metres hurdles at the Paris Diamond League, equalling her season’s best time of 12.28 seconds. She overtook early leader Nadine Visser before finishing ahead of American athletes Grace Stark and Alaysha Johnson.

    The victory is Amusan’s second Diamond League win of the season following her triumph in Rabat. Her consistent performances continue to boost Nigeria’s profile in global athletics as preparations intensify for the Diamond League final and the Commonwealth Games.

    3. State Police Bill Moves to State Assemblies

    The National Assembly has forwarded the proposed State Police Bill to the 36 state Houses of Assembly for consideration, bringing Nigeria closer to one of its most significant security reforms in decades. The proposal seeks to establish state-controlled police services alongside the existing federal structure.

    Supporters argue that decentralised policing will improve responses to kidnapping, banditry and other security threats, while critics continue to raise concerns over funding and possible political interference. The outcome of deliberations across the states will determine the next stage of the constitutional amendment process.

    4. Police Arrest 10 Suspects Over Killing of Benue MACBAN Chairman

    Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects over the killing of the state’s Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria chairman, Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate, Yakubu Isa. The arrests followed intelligence-led operations after the victims were attacked while returning from a security meeting in Otukpo.

    The incident drew condemnation from both the Federal Government and Governor Hyacinth Alia, who called for justice and calm. Investigators say efforts are continuing to identify other individuals connected to the attack.

    5. NDLEA Seizes N12.4bn Cannabis at Lagos Port

    The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has intercepted cannabis valued at about N12.4 billion at Lagos Port while dismantling a drug trafficking syndicate linked to passenger shipments. The operation is one of the agency’s biggest seizures in recent months.

    Officials said the action forms part of ongoing efforts to disrupt narcotics networks operating through Nigeria’s maritime routes. Investigations are continuing as authorities work to identify additional members of the syndicate.

    6. Nigeria Records 24 Universities in 2026 Global Rankings

    Twenty-four Nigerian universities have featured in the latest global university rankings, giving the country the highest representation in Sub-Saharan Africa. The rankings reflect improvements in research output, academic performance and institutional development.

    Education stakeholders say the achievement could strengthen international partnerships and attract more research opportunities. The Federal Government also described the rankings as encouraging for Nigeria’s higher education sector.

    7. Court Decision Creates Fresh Uncertainty for NDC Registration

    A Federal High Court in Lokoja has set aside its earlier judgment directing INEC to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress as a political party. The ruling restores the previous position while the substantive case continues.

    Leaders associated with the proposed party have insisted the platform has not been deregistered and have announced plans to challenge the decision. The development has renewed discussions over political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    8. DSS Releases Wrongfully Detained Herder, Awards N3 Million Compensation

    The Department of State Services has released a herder who spent two years in detention over alleged Boko Haram links after an internal review cleared him of wrongdoing. The agency also approved N3 million as compensation.

    The decision has attracted attention from human rights advocates, who say it highlights the importance of accountability in security operations. Observers believe the move could help strengthen public confidence in the justice process.

    9. Ogun Police Arrest Seven Suspected ‘One-Chance’ Robbers

    Ogun State Police Command has arrested seven suspected members of a robbery gang linked to ‘one-chance’ operations, armed robbery and cult-related activities. Security operatives also recovered stolen vehicles during the operation.

    Police said investigations are continuing to identify additional suspects and recover more stolen property. Residents have welcomed the arrests amid growing concerns over highway robberies and commuter safety.

    10. Nigerian Athletes Continue Global Success as Sports Momentum Grows

    Nigeria’s sporting profile continues to rise following another impressive weekend on the international stage, highlighted by Tobi Amusan’s Diamond League victory and strong performances by Nigerian athletes across several competitions.

    Sports analysts say the recent successes demonstrate the country’s growing depth in athletics and other disciplines. Many have called for increased investment in grassroots development to sustain Nigeria’s international competitiveness.

     

  • Tinubu Approves Free CAC Registration for 250,000 Small Businesses

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the free registration of 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as part of efforts to support small businesses across Nigeria.

    The approval was announced during the 8th National MSME Awards, with the initiative aimed at reducing the cost of formalising businesses and expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs.

    Application through SMEDAN portal

    Eligible entrepreneurs are required to submit their applications through the official Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) portal.

    The registration exercise is expected to help more small businesses gain legal recognition, improve access to government support programmes and strengthen their participation in the formal economy.

    SMEDAN-registered businesses qualify automatically

    According to the announcement, businesses already registered on the SMEDAN database but without Corporate Affairs Commission registration will automatically qualify for the waiver.

    The initiative forms part of the Federal Government’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship, support MSMEs and encourage business growth across the country.

    You can apply through portal.smedan.gov.ng

     

  • My Mother Sold Akara to Train Me, I Hawked Plantains in Jos, Sunday Dare Defends Remi Tinubu

    Presidential aide Sunday Dare has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s recent advice encouraging Nigerians to embrace small-scale businesses, saying there is dignity in starting with modest ventures.

    Dare made the remarks while reflecting on his childhood, revealing that his mother sold akara, bananas and oranges to pay for his education, while he hawked plantains in markets in Jos, Plateau State.

    Dare backs First Lady’s message

    According to the presidential aide, the First Lady’s comments were intended to encourage Nigerians to develop entrepreneurial skills and take advantage of opportunities available to them.

    “When you look at the informal sector of our country, its resilience continues to lift this economy. It’s also because of these small-scale entrepreneurs, those that sell akara. You find them predominantly everywhere, including in the North. They are also significant,” he said.

    He added that the message was not about limiting people’s ambitions but encouraging productivity.

    “Our point is that whatever it is, try and do something. Have some level of entrepreneurial skill,” Dare stated.

    Shares personal story

    Dare said his family’s experience shows that small businesses can create opportunities and transform lives.

    “Look at me. Wherever I am today, my mother sold akara. My mother sold bananas. I carried bananas on a tray on my head to markets in Jos, Plateau State. My mother sold oranges, and through that, they were able to train me. What is wrong with that? If that was right 60 years ago, what is wrong with that now?” he said.

    Cites Dangote’s journey

    The presidential aide also pointed to the success story of businessman Aliko Dangote, saying many successful entrepreneurs began with small ventures.

    “It’s about the capital you have. When you grow these small businesses, you start small. Go and read Dangote’s story. He also started like a trader,” Dare said.

    His remarks come days after the First Lady faced mixed reactions over her suggestion that Nigerians could consider businesses such as frying akara or roasting corn as a means of earning a living.

  • Okpebholo Reaffirms Promise of 2.5 Million Votes for Tinubu, Cites Edo Projects

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has restated his commitment to delivering 2.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, saying the administration’s ongoing infrastructure projects will earn the support of the people.

    The governor made the declaration on Friday during an inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Jattu Market in Etsako West Local Government Area.

    Governor links votes to development projects

    Okpebholo said his administration’s investments in infrastructure were already improving the lives of residents and would translate into massive support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general election.

    “People wonder how we will get the 2.5 million votes, but they forget that this government is doing a lot for Edo people. Our votes will come from the numerous projects we have embarked upon for the benefit of our people,” he said.

    He described the Jattu Market as a modern commercial facility that would boost trade and economic activities in Edo North and neighbouring communities.

    “We are not just building a market but a modern standard market for our people in Edo North, Edo State, as well as Nigerians who will benefit from this project when completed,” the governor added.

    Appeal to residents

    In a video from the event that has circulated widely online, Okpebholo urged residents to mobilise support for President Tinubu.

    “When you get home, tell your mother, your child, and your boyfriends and your husband that the governor has promised Asiwaju 2.5 million votes,” he said.

    The statement has generated reactions on social media, with some questioning the feasibility of the target, while others argued that ongoing development projects could strengthen the APC’s support base.

    APC leaders commend projects

    The inspection was attended by the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Blessing Agbebaku and other APC leaders.

    Momoh praised the reconstruction of the Jattu Market, describing it as an important economic project made possible through the collaboration between the federal and state governments.

    Oshiomhole also commended the initiative, saying the market’s redevelopment would improve trading conditions and enhance commercial activities in the area.

    The governor said similar projects, including the redevelopment of Oba Market in Benin City and the Ekpoma Modern Market, reflect his administration’s commitment to improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities across Edo State.

  • Top 10 News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. Security Agencies Arrest Seven Suspected Boko Haram Commanders Returning from Hajj

    Security agencies have arrested seven suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina after they returned from the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The suspects were identified through Nigeria’s integrated National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database before being handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.

    Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo described the operation as a major breakthrough made possible by improved identity management and inter-agency collaboration. Security analysts believe intelligence gathered from the suspects could support further operations against terrorist networks in the North-East while reinforcing the role of digital identity systems in national security.

    2. Tinubu Creates National Health Technology and Data Analytics Office

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of the National Health Technology and Data Analytics Office (NHTDAO) to coordinate Nigeria’s digital health initiatives and strengthen data-driven healthcare delivery. Former NIPRD Director-General, Dr Obi Adigwe, has been appointed as the pioneer National Coordinator.

    The office will oversee efforts to integrate health information systems, improve disease surveillance and expand the use of digital technology across the healthcare sector. Stakeholders say the initiative could accelerate electronic health records, telemedicine and artificial intelligence applications while improving coordination within Nigeria’s health system.

    3. Political Violence Raises Fresh Concerns Ahead of Osun Governorship Election

    Concerns over security are growing ahead of the August 15 Osun governorship election following reports of election-related violence, attacks and killings in parts of the state. Civil society organisations, journalists and security agencies have called on political actors to embrace peaceful campaigns.

    The rising tension has renewed concerns about voter safety and the credibility of the election. While Governor Ademola Adeleke’s camp has dismissed fears of widespread violence, opposition parties continue to demand stronger security measures as campaigns intensify.

    4. Victor Osimhen Receives Hero’s Welcome During Lagos Homecoming

    Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen attracted large crowds during a visit to his hometown in Olusosun, Lagos, where he met residents, posed for photographs and distributed cash support to local traders and businesses.

    Videos from the visit quickly spread across social media, with many Nigerians praising the footballer’s humility and connection to his roots. The visit has added to conversations around Nigerian football as Osimhen continues to enjoy a successful club career with Galatasaray.

    5. National Assembly Ranked Least Trusted Public Institution

    A new 2026 Social Cohesion Report released by the Africa Polling Institute has ranked the National Assembly as Nigeria’s least trusted public institution. According to the report, 77 per cent of respondents expressed little or no confidence in the legislature.

    The findings reflect growing public concerns over governance, accountability and institutional performance. Analysts say the report could increase pressure on lawmakers as the National Assembly continues work on major legislative reforms ahead of the 2027 election cycle.

    6. Burkina Faso Cuts Diplomatic Ties with France

    Burkina Faso’s military-led government has officially severed diplomatic relations with France, accusing its former colonial ruler of interfering in the country’s internal affairs and undermining its sovereignty.

    The decision marks another shift in political alliances across the Sahel region and could have wider implications for regional security and ECOWAS. Security experts say the development will be closely monitored because of its potential impact on cross-border terrorism and migration across West Africa.

    7. World Cup Knockout Stage Keeps Nigerian Fans Engaged

    The 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered the Round of 32, with players of Nigerian heritage continuing to make headlines despite the Super Eagles’ absence from the tournament.

    Football fans across Nigeria remain actively engaged with the competition while discussions continue about reforms needed to return the national team to future World Cup tournaments. The performances of diaspora players have also generated renewed interest among supporters.

    8. Building Collapses Renew Safety Concerns in Lagos

    Recent building collapses across Lagos have renewed public concern over construction standards and the enforcement of building regulations in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

    Government agencies have continued investigations into the affected structures while residents and safety experts call for stricter compliance with planning approvals. The incidents have intensified demands for stronger oversight to prevent further loss of lives.

    9. Atiku Urges Tinubu to Protect Opposition Politics

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged President Bola Tinubu to emulate former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan by protecting opposition parties and preserving Nigeria’s democratic space.

    His comments come amid ongoing debates over political inclusion and electoral reforms. The remarks have generated reactions across the political spectrum as parties continue preparations ahead of the 2027 general election.

    10. Digital Identity Reforms Gain Momentum in National Security

    Nigeria’s expanding digital identity system is gaining renewed attention following recent security successes and fresh government reforms aimed at improving public administration.

    Officials say the NIMC platform is becoming increasingly important in border security, financial inclusion and identity verification. Experts believe wider adoption of the system could improve service delivery while strengthening efforts to combat crime and terrorism.