Home Blog Page 7

NDLEA intercepts UK, Europe-bound cocaine, opioids in sanitary pads

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted packages of cocaine and opioids concealed in sanitary pads and hair treatment cream containers at courier firms in Lagos. The drugs were destined for the UK, Europe, and other countries. The agency also found tramadol pills hidden in custard containers and seized 11,096kg of illicit drugs in Edo, Borno, Ogun, and Katsina raids. Additionally, the NDLEA discovered cocaine hidden in shoes and containers. The agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, shared videos of the seized contraband..

The NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), commended the officers involved in the operations, saying, “The seizures and arrests in these operations across the country are a testament to the tireless efforts of our men and women who are working hard to stem the tide of drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria.”

He also called on all stakeholders, including parents, schools, and communities, to join forces with the agency to prevent the use of drugs among young people.

The NDLEA has made significant seizures and arrests in recent months, demonstrating its commitment to tackling drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria.

Prices of foodstuffs: Badagry Traditional chiefs force down prices in the market

By
Agency Report
-
0

Due to high end prices in the market, traditional chiefs in Badagry stormed Agbalata Market on Saturday to force down prices of foodstuffs and goods.

The development was reported by News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reporting that, the Traditional Ruler of Badagry, Aholu Menu Toyi 1, on August 28, dissolved market committees dictating the prices of foodstuffs and goods in Agbalata International Market, Badagry.

The Akran made the announcement at a meeting with Agbalata market men and women at his palace in Badagry.

The Akran, who was represented by Chief Michael Onu-Osekan, the Jengen of Badagry, said no committee should set the price of foodstuffs and goods brought to the market by sellers any longer.

Onu-Osekan sent town criers to assemble the traders at four different venues in the local government to address them.

He said the chiefs had come on instructions of the Akran in reference to the meeting he held at his palace.

“We have come to disseminate information around the market and see if the instructions issued to marketers are being followed.

“We heard that some marketers are not willing to pay waste, security and other fees, due to the instructions from the palace.

“The message is that they should not make things harder for our fellow people of the community, they should not overcharge people with the aim of gaining too much,” he said.

Similarly, Chief Anthony Oloyede, the Efiyentan of Badagry Kingdom, said they were in the market to ensure marketers regulate the price of foodstuffs according to the Akran’s directives.

Oloyede said: “Shortly after the directives on the dissolution of market committees and reduction of prices of foodstuffs, we heard that some traders are adamant and even refused to pay their normal market levies.

“The levies include security and waste fees which they used to pay monthly to ensure that the market is cleaned.

“This is part of what brought us here, Akran urges them to pay their monthly dues and have human feelings while selling their goods,” he said.

Also, Tunde Hundeyin, representing the Coconut Sellers Association of Agbalata Market, commended the traditional chiefs for coming to address the marketers on the high cost of foodstuffs.

Hundeyin, however, urged the traditional chiefs to appeal to the government to reduce the pump prices of petrol and diesel.

He said these were a major cause of the hike in prices of foodstuff.

Chief Solomon Alabi, the Otun Baba Oja of Agbalata Market, promised that all traders in the market would comply with the directives of the traditional ruler.

Alabi thanked the chiefs for coming to the market to brief the marketers on Akran’s directives.

News Agency Of Nigeria


PDD is dead, awaiting burial- Rabiu Kwankwaso

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

Rabiu Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is “dead” and awaiting burial. He made this statement while reflecting on his past involvement with the PDP and its deviation from its founding principles. Kwankwaso urged Nigerians, especially women and youth, to resist being swayed by bribes or superficial incentives during the next elections. He also expressed his confidence in becoming the next President in 2027.

The former Governor of Kano State said Nigerians should not be deceived by gifts or money during the next general election.

Also speaking, Katsina NNPP chairman, Armaya’u Abdulkadir, said the party in the state is doing everything possible to enlighten the electorate on the party’s new logo.

Abdulkadir said the new logo symbolises education for all, which is the main focus area of the Kwankwasiyya leader.

Presidency accepts Ajuri’s resignation as Tinubu’s spokesman

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

President Bola Tinubu has accepted the resignation of his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale. Ngelale had tendered his resignation due to personal and health reasons, and the President expressed his understanding and sympathy for the circumstances that led to the decision.

The President also acknowledged Ngelale’s tireless efforts and dedication in serving the nation, particularly in advancing national discourse and leading efforts on climate action and other key initiatives.

Ajuri Ngelale has stepped down as President Bola Tinubu’s spokesman due to medical issues affecting his immediate family. He was appointed as the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity and Official Spokesperson of President Bola Tinubu on July 31, 2023. He was also appointed as the first Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action for the Federal Republic of Nigeria on May 19, 2024.

Nigeria vs Benin Republic: Boniface leads attack, Lookman, Chukwueze start

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face the Cheetahs of Benin at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen is expected to field his strongest lineup, with Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface leading the attack. Boniface will be supported by wingers Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze. Captain William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Semi Ajayi will occupy the three-man central defense, while Nottingham Forest star Ola Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi will feature as wing-backs. Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi will take charge of the midfield.

The starting lineup for the Super Eagles includes:

– Francis Uzoho (goalkeeper)

– Ola Aina (right wing-back)

– William Troost-Ekong (center-back)

– Calvin Bassey (center-back)

– Semi Ajayi (center-back)

– Bruno Onyemaechi (left wing-back)

– Wilfred Ndidi (defensive midfielder)

– Alex Iwobi (attacking midfielder)

– Ademola Lookman (right winger)

– Victor Boniface (striker)

– Samuel Chukwueze (left winger)

Victor Osimhen, who was expected to lead the attack, was surprisingly benched, with Victor Boniface taking his place. The decision has raised eyebrows, but coach Augustine Eguavoen has expressed confidence in his starting lineup.

The match against Benin Republic is crucial for the Super Eagles, as they seek to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. A win would put them in a strong position in their qualifying group.

Governor Aiyedatiwa appoints 344 new aides

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has appointed 344 new aides, just weeks before the state’s governorship election. This move is part of his efforts to improve governance and service delivery in the state. The new appointees will likely play a crucial role in shaping the governor’s policies and programs. With less than ten weeks to go until the election, this decision may also be seen as a strategic move to strengthen the governor’s team and boost his chances of winning.

The 344 new aides include:

– 127 Special Assistants

– 77 Senior Special Assistants

– 60 Special Advisers

– 30 Executive Assistants

– 20 Personal Assistants

– 10 Chief Press Secretaries

– 10 New Media Assistants

– 10 Speech Writers

Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that the appointments were made to inject fresh ideas and perspectives into his administration, ensuring that his vision for the state is achieved. He also emphasized the importance of youth participation in governance, as many of the appointees are young professionals.

The opposition party has criticized the move, citing concerns about the financial implications and potential political motivations. However, supporters of the governor argue that the appointments will enhance the delivery of services to the people of Ondo State.

The new aides are expected to resume duty immediately, working closely with existing officials to drive the governor’s agenda forward.

Tukur Buratai pays tribute to Yar’adua’s late mother

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, the former Chief of Army Staff, visited the family of former President Musa Yar’Adua in Katsina to pay tribute to their late matriarch, Hajiya Dada Yar’Adua. He described her as a mother anyone could wish for, showing his respect and admiration for her. This visit was a condolence gesture to support the family during this difficult time. 

During the visit, General Buratai offered his condolences to the Yar’Adua family, praising Hajiya Dada’s exceptional qualities and the significant role she played in nurturing her children, including former President Yar’Adua. He emphasized the importance of family values and the impact of a mother’s influence on her children’s lives.

General Buratai’s gesture was seen as a sign of respect and admiration for the Yar’Adua family, highlighting the close relationship between the military and the political elite in Nigeria. The visit also demonstrated the general’s commitment to showing empathy and support during difficult times.

The Yar’Adua family appreciated General Buratai’s condolence visit, acknowledging his kind words and thoughtfulness. The visit served as a reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity in times of grief.

Flamanville EPR approved for start up

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

The Flamanville 3 EPR nuclear reactor in France has begun operations after receiving a divergence agreement from the French nuclear safety authority. The reactor will undergo a series of tests, including a power output of 25% before being connected to the national electricity grid. The reactor’s power output will be gradually increased in successive stages over several months.

The Flamanville 3 EPR is the first of its kind in France, following the commissioning of EPR reactors in China and Finland. The reactor’s construction began in December 2007 and has faced significant delays and cost overruns.

However, the reactor has already encountered a setback, shutting down automatically just a day after starting up for the first time. The shutdown was due to the reactor’s safety system working as intended, and staff are currently conducting technical checks and analysis before restarting the reactor.

Why Tinubu must resign as petroleum minister, say Olisa Agbakoba

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

Olisa Agbakoba, a senior advocate of Nigeria, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to step down as Minister of Petroleum Resources and appoint a substantive minister. Agbakoba believes that having the president as the minister of petroleum is not in the interest of the country and that the oil and gas sector needs a complete overhaul. He emphasized that the sector needs a minister who can devote 100% attention to it, as it is critical to the country’s development. Additionally, Agbakoba proposed a shift in the nation’s oil and gas sector governance from “contract oil” to “development oil,” which would help Nigeria reinvest oil revenues into infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and research.

Agbakoba further emphasized that the current arrangement, where the President serves as the Minister of Petroleum Resources, creates a conflict of interest and undermines the principle of separation of powers. He argued that the President’s role as Minister of Petroleum Resources concentrates too much power in one person, making it difficult to hold anyone accountable for the sector’s performance.

The senior advocate also pointed out that the oil and gas sector is critical to Nigeria’s economy, accounting for over 80% of the country’s foreign exchange earnings. He stressed that the sector requires a dedicated minister who can focus on reforming the industry, addressing the issue of oil theft, and ensuring transparency in the management of oil revenues.

Agbakoba’s call for President Tinubu to step down as Minister of Petroleum Resources has been supported by some civil society organizations and opposition parties, who argue that it is essential to have a separate minister for the sector to ensure effective governance and accountability.

In response to Agbakoba’s statement, the Presidency has not yet made any official comment, but sources close to the government indicate that the President is considering appointing a substantive minister for the petroleum sector in the near future.

Shettima calls for strong ties between FG and traditional institutions

By
Sekyen Yakubu
-
0

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for stronger ties between the federal government and traditional institutions, reaffirming the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s commitment to engaging royal fathers as key stakeholders in national development and social cohesion. He made this statement during a visit to Ningi Emirate in Bauchi State, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the government and traditional institutions to drive progress and unity in the country. Shettima’s call for stronger ties is a step towards recognizing the significant role traditional institutions play in Nigerian society and harnessing their influence to promote national development and social cohesion.

Shettima emphasized that traditional institutions possess a deep understanding of local communities and can serve as vital partners in addressing various challenges, including security, healthcare, and education. He acknowledged the significant contributions of royal fathers in promoting peace, stability, and development in their domains.

The Vice President also highlighted the importance of leveraging traditional institutions’ influence to drive social change, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. He assured that the federal government would continue to support and empower traditional institutions to fulfill their roles effectively.

In response, the Emir of Ningi, Alhaji Yunusa Danyaya, commended the Vice President’s commitment to strengthening ties between the government and traditional institutions. He expressed the willingness of royal fathers to collaborate with the government to address the nation’s challenges.

Shettima’s visit to Ningi Emirate is part of the federal government’s efforts to engage traditional institutions and promote national unity. The Vice President’s call for stronger ties between the government and traditional institutions is seen as a positive step towards harnessing their collective strength for Nigeria’s development.

1...678...593Page 7 of 593

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©