Nigeria News (Standard)
SEDC Defends ₦153 Million Expenditure on Abuja Liaison Office
Commission says spending aligns with budgetary approval, cites strategic need for federal presence in FCT
Commission says spending aligns with budgetary approval, cites strategic need for federal presence in FCT
The State Economic Development Commission (SEDC) has clarified its expenditure of ₦153 million on a liaison office in Abuja, stating that the funds were used strictly in line with approved budgetary provisions. The commission made this disclosure in Abuja on Thursday, responding to public concerns over the cost associated with establishing and maintaining the office in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to SEDC, the process leading to the establishment of the liaison office followed due procurement procedures and was intended to strengthen the state’s representation at federal government meetings. The commission explained that the allocation covered rent, furnishing, and essential operational needs required for effective engagement with ministries, departments, and agencies based in Abuja.
The move comes amid ongoing scrutiny of state expenditures by civil society groups and opposition parties, who have called for greater transparency and prioritisation of funds amid economic pressures. With inflation rising above 30 percent as at April 2026 (according to NBS data), many stakeholders have questioned large outlays by state bodies.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, SEDC noted: “This expenditure is not only necessary but also strategic for ensuring our state’s interests are well represented at the federal level. All disbursements were carried out according to established financial regulations and oversight mechanisms.”
Opposition lawmakers have urged an independent audit of all state liaison offices, arguing that such reviews are critical for public trust. The commission maintained that it is open to any probe as required by law. As debates continue over fiscal responsibility at subnational level, further legislative hearings on similar expenditures are expected in coming months.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Presidency Disowns Group Claiming to Represent Nigeria on Foreign Intervention
Aso Rock distances self from ‘Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council’, says group has no official mandate
Aso Rock distances self from ‘Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council’, says group has no official mandate
The Presidency in Abuja on Thursday disowned a group operating under the name ‘Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council’, clarifying that the body is not recognised by the federal government. The statement was issued amid concerns over unauthorised individuals or organisations claiming to represent Nigeria in diplomatic matters.
According to information released from Aso Rock, no such council has been established or authorised to speak or act on behalf of President Bola Tinubu or any official arm of government. The clarification comes following reports that the self-styled council had begun reaching out to foreign partners, presenting itself as a legitimate channel for intervention in Nigeria’s affairs.
This development is significant as it comes at a time when questions have been raised over the proliferation of unofficial groups claiming ties to State House, especially regarding sensitive diplomatic and international relations matters. Such claims have caused confusion among stakeholders and foreign missions, some of whom have sought verification from Nigerian authorities.
A presidency official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment publicly, said: ‘There is no Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council endorsed by this administration. Any group making such claims is acting independently and without mandate.’ Efforts to reach individuals associated with the purported council for comment were unsuccessful as at press time.
With this clarification, the federal government has warned both local and international stakeholders to verify all engagements with officially recognised bodies before taking further action. Observers say the move is aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s diplomatic image and preventing misrepresentation in international fora.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Super Eagles Fall 2–1 to Portugal as Iwobi Reaches 100th Cap in Lisbon Friendly
Portugal secures narrow win over Nigeria in international friendly; Alex Iwobi marks historic century appearance for national team
Portugal secures narrow win over Nigeria in international friendly; Alex Iwobi marks historic century appearance for national team
The Super Eagles of Nigeria were narrowly defeated 2–1 by Portugal in an international friendly match played at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon on Thursday night. The fixture, which provided both teams with a crucial test ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures, saw Alex Iwobi reach his milestone 100th appearance for Nigeria.
Portugal took the lead early in the first half through a well-taken effort, applying sustained pressure on the Nigerian defence. The hosts doubled their advantage before the break, capitalising on a defensive lapse from the Eagles. Nigeria rallied in the second half, with Alex Iwobi at the centre of attacking moves, eventually pulling one back to reduce the deficit. Despite several late attempts, the Super Eagles could not find an equaliser.
The match was significant for Nigeria, with Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi joining an exclusive list of players to have earned 100 caps for the national team. His performance was marked by creativity and leadership on the pitch as he orchestrated play from midfield and created key chances for his teammates.
While both sides used the friendly to assess squad depth and experiment with tactics, Portuguese manager and Super Eagles technical crew alike fielded strong line-ups. The encounter gave Coach Finidi George an opportunity to test new combinations ahead of future AFCON qualifiers. Speaking after the match, team officials commended Iwobi’s commitment and highlighted areas for improvement ahead of upcoming fixtures.
With this result, Portugal maintains momentum on home soil while Nigeria will look to regroup and address defensive lapses before resuming competitive action. Fans and stakeholders have praised Iwobi’s landmark achievement as a testament to his dedication and consistency for the Super Eagles.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Falana, Youth Groups Launch Nationwide Protest on June 12 Over Insecurity, Economic Hardship
Demonstrations set for major cities as organisers demand urgent government action on food prices, unemployment, and security
Demonstrations set for major cities as organisers demand urgent government action on food prices, unemployment, and security
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), youth groups, and civil society organisations have announced a nationwide protest to hold across major Nigerian cities on Wednesday, June 12, coinciding with the country’s Democracy Day. The organisers say the demonstration aims to spotlight rising insecurity, economic hardship, and governance challenges affecting millions of Nigerians.
According to statements released by the coalition, the protest was deliberately scheduled for June 12 because of its significance in Nigeria’s democratic history. Democracy Day commemorates the legacy of late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, regarded as winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. Organisers insist that this year’s anniversary offers a platform for peaceful citizens’ action on urgent national issues.
The groups behind the protest cite worsening living conditions as a key driver. They highlight soaring food inflation, high unemployment among young people, and persistent threats to security in several states. “Nigerians are facing daily hardships due to high cost of living and lack of job opportunities,” one organiser stated. They have listed their core demands as immediate action on insecurity nationwide; measures to reduce food prices; policies to alleviate economic suffering; job creation for young people; improved accountability from public officials; and protection of citizens’ constitutional rights.
The coalition has emphasised that the planned demonstration will be peaceful and conducted within legal boundaries. “Our intention is not to undermine democracy but to call for urgent intervention from government on issues that affect us all,” an organiser said during a briefing. At press time, federal authorities had not issued any official response regarding the planned protests.
With public concern mounting over inflation and security—as reported by National Bureau of Statistics data showing double-digit inflation rates—this year’s Democracy Day is expected to draw significant attention from both citizens and authorities. Organisers say mobilisation efforts are ongoing in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano and other cities nationwide.
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