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First Batch of Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Arrives Lagos Airport

Returnees touch down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport as government intensifies efforts to ensure citizens’ safety abroad

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Returnees touch down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport as government intensifies efforts to ensure citizens’ safety abroad

The first group of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Thursday, 11 June 2026. The evacuation was coordinated by the Nigerian government following reports of heightened safety concerns for its nationals residing in South Africa.

Authorities facilitated the safe return of citizens amid rising tensions and calls from families back home. The flight, carrying the initial set of evacuees, touched down in Lagos under the supervision of relevant agencies, who received the returnees upon arrival and provided immediate assistance where necessary.

The evacuation exercise comes against a backdrop of repeated incidents affecting Nigerians in South Africa, prompting urgent intervention by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other stakeholders. Many families had expressed anxiety over the welfare of their relatives, intensifying calls for government action to bring them home safely.

Officials said arrangements are underway to process and resettle those who have returned. “We are committed to ensuring every Nigerian is protected regardless of where they find themselves,” a senior official involved in the operation stated. Efforts are ongoing to support the evacuees with temporary accommodation and reintegration support as more batches are expected in coming days.

The federal government has assured that it will continue to monitor developments in South Africa and take further steps if required. Additional flights have been scheduled as part of ongoing measures to evacuate all willing Nigerians facing difficulties abroad.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/886802-breaking-first-batch-of-nigerians-evacuated-from-south-africa-arrives-in-lagos.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Trump Declares World Peace as His 80th Birthday Wish Amid Iran Tensions

US president’s remarks come as global observers watch ongoing diplomatic efforts in Middle East conflict zones

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June 11, 2026

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US president’s remarks come as global observers watch ongoing diplomatic efforts in Middle East conflict zones

United States President Donald Trump has stated that his wish for his upcoming 80th birthday is for world peace, making the announcement on Tuesday during a recent interview focused on global affairs and ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The comment comes at a time of heightened international attention on diplomatic discussions involving Iran and other conflict-prone regions.

Trump, speaking from Washington, addressed questions about his milestone birthday by expressing a desire for peace across the world. He noted the impact of persistent conflicts and highlighted the need for diplomatic solutions to ongoing disputes, particularly in areas where US foreign policy has played a significant role. “My wish is simple – I want to see an end to violence and more stability globally,” Trump said during the interview, reflecting on both current crises and broader hopes for international cooperation.

The US president’s statement marks a noticeable shift from his usual hardline tone regarding foreign policy and security matters, especially concerning Iran. Tensions between the United States and Iran have remained high, with frequent discussions around sanctions, security threats, and efforts towards diplomatic engagement drawing worldwide attention. Trump’s call for world peace has been interpreted by analysts as an indication of potential openness to dialogue, even as security concerns persist.

While Trump did not outline specific steps his administration would take to achieve global peace, he emphasised the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions through diplomatic channels. International observers continue to monitor developments closely, with many noting that major powers like the United States hold significant influence over outcomes in volatile regions.

As he approaches his 80th birthday, Trump’s public statement adds to ongoing conversations about global stability and the responsibility of world leaders to pursue peaceful outcomes. The international community is expected to pay close attention to any further signals from Washington regarding future diplomatic moves in conflict areas such as the Middle East.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/trump-reveals-what-he-wants-for-his-80th-birthday-2026061112332844790

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Nigeria News (Standard)

House of Representatives Names Bayelsa Lawmaker as Minority Leader in Abuja

New minority leadership unveiled on Thursday as South-South gains strategic slot; opposition parties expected to respond to appointments

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June 11, 2026

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New minority leadership unveiled on Thursday as South-South gains strategic slot; opposition parties expected to respond to appointments

The House of Representatives on Thursday announced its new minority leadership, naming a lawmaker from Bayelsa State as the Minority Leader during a plenary session at the National Assembly complex in Abuja. The announcement marks a significant development for South-South representation within the current legislative cycle.

Details of how the selection unfolded were not immediately disclosed during the session, but the decision was confirmed by presiding officers who read out the list of new minority leaders on the floor. The appointment is seen as part of ongoing efforts to balance political interests and regional representation in Nigeria’s lower legislative chamber.

The unveiling of a Bayelsa representative for this key post comes at a time when opposition parties are seeking to assert greater influence within the House. Minority leadership positions play a crucial role in shaping debate and holding government accountable, especially given Nigeria’s dynamic multiparty landscape.

Official statements regarding the selection process were yet to be released as at press time. However, party chieftains from opposition blocs are expected to make their positions known in coming days, particularly on how these appointments reflect internal party agreements and regional equity. Stakeholders have long called for broader inclusion across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

With new minority leaders now named, attention will shift to how these changes affect legislative priorities and negotiations with the majority All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus. Political observers say this development could set the tone for future debates on national policy, resource allocation, and oversight responsibilities during this Assembly’s tenure.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/886821-reps-announce-minority-leadership-name-bayelsa-lawmaker-as-leader.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

DSS, Army Thwart Kidnap Plot Targeting WAEC Students in Enugu, Anambra and Imo States

Security agencies recover arms, NYSC uniforms and arrest suspects linked to planned attacks on examination centres

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June 11, 2026

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Security agencies recover arms, NYSC uniforms and arrest suspects linked to planned attacks on examination centres

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and soldiers from the Nigerian Army have foiled a coordinated attempt to kidnap students writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in parts of Enugu, Anambra and Imo states. The operation took place on Wednesday, following credible intelligence about the planned abductions by members of the proscribed Eastern Security Network (ESN).

According to a statement released by the DSS on Thursday, security agents raided an ESN armoury located in the Agbani axis of Enugu State. The statement said intelligence revealed that ESN members intended to disguise themselves in National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) uniforms while launching attacks on selected schools during the WASSCE period. During the raid, security operatives recovered eight AK-47 rifles, 12 AK-47 magazines, 323 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a smoke grenade launcher, two teargas canisters, as well as NYSC clothing items including trousers, T-shirts and lanyards.

The DSS noted that the motive behind the planned attack was to create panic and give an impression that bandits had infiltrated the South-East region. The targeted schools were identified across multiple locations in Enugu, Anambra and Imo states. Security operatives also confirmed that several suspects were arrested during the operation.

Further operations continued on Tuesday in the Garki area of Enugu State where another ESN armoury was raided. This led to additional recoveries including a rocket launcher, two rocket-propelled grenade warheads, three RPG chargers and three AK-47 rifles. Other items seized include six AK-47 magazines, two handheld grenades, a teargas gun with canisters, a baton and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

Security agencies have increased surveillance around examination centres in affected states as at Thursday. The DSS stated it will continue working with other security outfits to ensure safety for students sitting for national examinations across Nigeria’s South-East zone. No casualties were reported from these operations as at press time.

Source: https://punchng.com/dss-military-foil-kidnap-of-waec-students-in-south-east-recover-weapons/

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