The Plateau State Police Command has arrested a 16-year-old teenager, Miracle Igwebuike, for having sexual intercourse with three sisters aged 6, 9, and 12 in the Tudun Wada community, Jos North Local Government Area.

According to the Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, “On 24/08/2024 at about 4:30 pm, one Victoria Livinus and one Kauna Stephen, both female of Tudun Wada Jos, reported at the ‘A’ division Police station that one Miracle Igwbuike male, 16 years of the same address, has been having carnal knowledge of their daughters…”

The suspect confessed to the crime and implicated a 38-year-old woman, Bongkat Dombin, who had allegedly been seducing and having sexual intercourse with him since he was 13 years old.

Bongkat Dombin has also been arrested and confessed to the crime.

The Commissioner paraded over 20 other suspects for various offences and assured that all suspects would be charged in court after investigation.

He appreciated the press, government, and citizens for their support and cooperation, saying, “I want to take this time to appreciate the members of the press for cooperating with the police… I also wish to appreciate the government of Plateau State for the overwhelming support given to the command.”

Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has emphasized the need for strategic growth and adaptability in women’s organizations, citing the Criterion, a Professional Muslim women organization, as a prime example.

While hosting the Criterion’s National Executives and members, Engr. Salako-Oyedele urged the organization to engage in innovative advocacy programs to attract young Muslim women.

“You have to continue to adapt because what works 40 years ago when the organisation started may not work today because we live in a different world,” she said.

Engr. Salako-Oyedele commended the organization for its efforts in empowering women and inaugurating the Abeokuta District, noting that some members were indigenes of Ogun state.

She encouraged the Criterion to initiate programs supporting the needy and addressing contemporary women’s issues.

Engr. Salako-Oyedele emphasized the importance of staying relevant and up-to-date to attract and retain members, especially with many similar organizations competing for membership.

On her part, Alhaja Medinat Akanni, the National Amirah of the Criterion, highlighted the organization’s 40-year history and its expansion plans.

“We were formed 40 years ago by six Muslim women who were actively involved in Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) and willing to continue after graduation,” she said.

The Criterion has over 1,000 members across Nigeria and Ghana, with plans to extend to the Northern and Eastern parts of the country.

In a significant move, the OGSIEC has reduced the minimum age qualification for candidates in the upcoming Local Government elections from 30 to 25 years.

This change follows a review of the laws governing the conduct of Local Government elections, aligning the guidelines with Section 7(4) & 106 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

According to OGSIEC Chairman, Babatunde Osibodu, “The law stipulates that a candidate is qualified for election if he or she has attained the age of 25 years.”

In addition to the age qualification change, the electoral body has extended the deadline for party primaries by one week. The new deadline is now Monday, September 16, 2024.

“The collection of personal data forms (CF001 and CF002) by each political party has also been extended to Friday, September 20, 2024”.

“Political parties that have already conducted their primaries may collect the necessary forms for each of their candidates starting from Tuesday, September 10, 2024, with submissions accepted between Monday, September 16, and Friday, September 20, 2024”.

“Additionally, a meeting with all political parties has been scheduled for Monday, September 9, 2024, at the Commission’s Headquarters in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, at 12 noon”.

“Each political party intending to participate in the forthcoming elections is requested to send no more than two representatives each to the meeting for further discussions,” the statement stated.

He released that “All other schedules in the previously published election timetable remain unchanged, including the Chairmanship and Councillorship elections set to hold on November 16, 2023”.

After a year-long wait for a promised state funeral, the family of Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of Nigeria’s national flag, has proceeded with his burial. Despite assurances from the Federal Government, the family was forced to take matters into their own hands due to the financial burden of keeping his body in the morgue.

With daily morgue fees amounting to N2,000, the family could no longer afford to wait for the government’s fulfillment of its promise. Fortunately, the Oyo State Government intervened, providing the necessary funds for a dignified burial.

In a ceremony attended by family, friends, and government officials, Akinkunmi was finally laid to rest, bringing closure to his loved ones. The delay in his burial has sparked questions about the government’s commitment to honoring its national heroes.

Akinkunmi’s legacy as the designer of Nigeria’s national flag will live on, but his family’s experience highlights the need for timely recognition and support for those who have made significant contributions to the country.

In a bid to restore order and align with the state’s THEMES PLUS Agenda, the Lagos State Taskforce conducted an early morning operation on Friday, demolishing over 50 illegal structures along Agungi Ajiran Road in Lekki.

According to Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Taskforce, the operation aimed to address environmental degradation, security risks, and disruption of peace in the neighborhood caused by the illegal structures.

Akerele noted that eviction notices had been issued to occupants two weeks prior, but they refused to vacate the premises. He emphasized that the structures violated physical planning regulations in the Lekki-Epe area and tarnished the planned residential zone.

The Taskforce Chairman assured residents that demolition efforts would continue, as more shanties in the Lekki area had been served removal notices.

He urged occupants to voluntarily vacate and dismantle illegal structures to avoid forced demolition.

Akerele also encouraged residents to report suspicious activities through the agency’s feedback channels, saying, “If you see something, say something,” to help curb the spread of illegal structures.”

Beijing, China – President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to building a prosperous Nigeria, urging Nigerians in the diaspora to support his vision.

Speaking to Nigerians living in China, President Tinubu emphasized the need for discipline and commitment to national service, citing China’s disciplined society as a model for Nigeria.

He highlighted his administration’s efforts to strengthen cooperation with China in key sectors, including infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, green economy, and mining.

President Tinubu also assured Nigerians in the diaspora that his government is committed to creating an enabling environment for them to contribute to Nigeria’s growth, adding that the Bank of Industry is ready to collaborate with them to tap into opportunities back home.

He said: “I cannot tell you more, except from the embassy, that China is a very disciplined society and we have to be disciplined too. Without discipline and commitment, we cannot build a nation that is respected everywhere in the world.

“We must exploit our diversity and be ready to do everything required of us within the laws of the communities that we live in and reflect a good image of our country,” the President said.

Highlighting the impact of investments in China’s economy, President Tinubu assured Nigerians in Diaspora that Nigeria’s Bank of Industry is prepared to collaborate with them to leverage opportunities back home.

“Nigeria is going through reforms, and we are taking very bold and unprecedented decisions. For example, you might have been hearing from home in the last few days about fuel prices.

“But, can we help it? Can we develop good roads like you have here? You see electricity being constant in quantity and quality. You see water supply, constant and running, and you see their good schools. And we say we want to hand over a banner without stain to our children?

“What is the critical part to get us there if we cannot take hard decisions to pave the way for a country that is blessed and so talented?

“So many of you are so talented, speaking very fluent Mandarin. It is what you contribute and tell them at home that will reflect in the attitude of our people. The more you want everything free, it will become more expensive and long-delayed to achieve meaningful development,’’ the President said.

To the applause of the audience, President Tinubu stated that one key takeaway from his visit to China is the commitment to replicate China’s infrastructure back home.

“We want our children to be in good schools, not tattered huts and dilapidated buildings. We must make our teaching innovative and allow businesses of all kinds and sizes to flourish.

“One economic action leads to another, and it is in your hand to build our nation. Mine is to provide the leadership, and I am committed to doing just that,” the President stated.

The President noted that while it is not always easy for a leader to have a national consensus on issues, he is ready to take the hard decisions to move the nation forward.

“We are focused, and I have a very good team,” President Tinubu added.

In his remarks, Dr. Oche Barnabas, President of NIDO China, commended President Tinubu for his commitment to strengthening Nigeria-China relations, particularly in trade, investment, and people-to-people collaboration.

He expressed NIDO China’s support for Nigeria’s 4Ds initiative, launched by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, earlier in the year.

He pledged that the organization is eager to drive the initiative forward within the diaspora community.

Mr. Barnabas requested President Tinubu’s assistance in advocating for Nigeria to be officially recognized as a native English-speaking nation, which would open up job and educational opportunities for Nigerians in China.

”Your Excellency, I wish to indulge your kind attention and use this rare opportunity to share a key challenge on behalf of the Nigeria community in China. Due to the peculiar nature of this country, the Nigerian community is mainly composed of students, expatriates, and businessmen.

”Our desire is that Nigeria is officially recognized as a native English-speaking nation in China. We believe your esteemed engagements with the high-level authorities can assist us in establishing this status.

”Presently, over 70% of available international jobs in China are reserved for native English speakers. In 2016, the local authorities listed South Africa as a native English-speaking nation.

”We believe Nigeria has a chance to receive similar recognition due to the fact that English language is our official language and we are also blessed with Professor Wole Soyinka who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986.

”We believe the enhancement of our status will open more opportunities to allow more Nigerians to study and work in China, thereby increasing diaspora remittance to Nigeria,” he said.

The Chairman of NIDO China pledged that the organization would continue to contribute their expertise and resources to support President Tinubu’s administration and efforts to elevate Nigeria’s global standing.

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has dismissed an appeal filed by two governorship aspirants of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Arthur Esene and Anselm Ojezua, seeking to disqualify the party’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, from the upcoming governorship election scheduled for September 21.

The appellants had appealed the April 17, 2024, judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which dismissed their suit as statute-barred. However, the Court of Appeal upheld the trial court’s decision, ruling that the suit was filed out of time.

In his lead judgment, Justice Hamma Barka concurred with the lower court’s ruling that the appellants failed to substantiate their claim that Ighodalo had forged his voter’s card. The appellate court also found that the case was without merit, as the appellants’ argument that not having a voter’s card is grounds for disqualification was flawed.

The panel noted that the appellants did not contest the trial court’s finding that Ighodalo had applied to transfer his voter registration from Lagos to Edo State and was subsequently issued a voter’s card by INEC.

Justice Barka struck out the appeal for lack of merit and ordered the appellants to pay N3 million in costs to Ighodalo, the PDP, and INEC. Justices Usman Musale and Okon Abang agreed with the lead judgment.

The dismissal of the appeal clears the way for Ighodalo to contest the governorship election as the PDP candidate.

The Federal Government has clarified that there is no age restriction for sitting for the National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC) examinations, contrary to recent reports suggesting a minimum age of 18 years.

Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tanko Sununu, made the clarification in Abuja on Friday while briefing journalists on activities to herald the 2024 World Literacy Day with the theme: “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.”

Dr. Sununu stated, “We have made ourselves clear in different fora, but the issue kept recurring. Nobody among us, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, nor the Minister of State, stated anything about the age limit for WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB. People just pick up some remarks the Minister made, misinterpreted the statements to imply that age restriction has been placed for WAEC and NECO examinations.”

He further explained, “What we have been mentioning in the past was the entry age for university, candidates sitting for the UTME. We have made this clear several times, and this is in line with the National Policy on Education.”

Dr. Sununu added, “The document stated that a child is expected to enter Primary School at six years, and he’s expected to spend six years in that school making it 12 years, three years each in junior and senior secondary schools, making it 18 years. That’s what is contained in the National Policy on Education document.”

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, Prof. Akpama Iboro, said the commemorative event resonates deeply with the values and goals of the Commission.

Prof. Iboro stated, “Literacy in a multilingual world transcends the ability to read and write in a single language; it encompasses the rich tapestry of cultural diversity and linguistic heritage that characterizes our nation and the world at large and reminds us that every language is a vessel of culture, knowledge, and wisdom.”

He added, “The Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting literacy across all regions of our country, recognising the unique challenges that come with multilingual education, especially in a diverse nation where hundreds of languages are spoken.”

Ekiti State Government has abolished the use of laterite as a base material for road construction in Ekiti State.

This decision was announced by the State Commissioner for Works, Mr Adesola Adebayo, during a 2-day media tour of major projects executed since the inception of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration.

Speaking in Ikole Ekiti where he warned contractors that substandard work would not be tolerated, Mr Adebayo disclosed that contractors handling road projects in the state have been directed to use crushed stones as the base material before laying asphalt, ensuring that roads are more durable and cost-effective in the long term.

“The base is the foundation for a long-lasting road, and it is critical to choose the right material to guarantee value for the funds spent,” Adebayo emphasised.

Highlighting the government’s focus on infrastructure development, the commissioner stated that the ongoing road projects are designed to reduce traffic congestion, improve the state’s interconnection, and enhance economic activities.

He listed 19 roads currently under construction, reconstruction, or rehabilitation, including key routes such as the Ilawe-Ikere Road, Igbara Odo-Ikere Road, Iloro-Ijurin Road, Temidire-Ayegunle Road, Ipoti-Ilukuno-Oke Oro Road, Itapa-Ijelu Road, Isinbode-Ara-Ikole road, Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki, the new Ado ring Road and the Ikogosi/Igbara-Odo Road.

Other projects include the Ado Township roads; Faglo-Dehead Road, and the new Ajilosun to Okeyinmi Flyover bridge.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun explained that the media tour was organised to keep the public well-informed about the government’s activities in line with the current administration’s transparency and inclusion policy which welcomes public scrutiny of the government’s efforts.

The media tour included members of the State Executive Council, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr Kayode Babatuyi, as well as other prominent media executives and correspondents.

A Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Church pastor, Victor Olusegun, 31, has been remanded in the Nigerian Correctional Centre for allegedly impregnating a 15-year-old girl in Ondo state.

The cleric was arraigned on a one-count charge of unlawful sexual intercourse before the magistrates’ court in Akure, Ondo State capital.

According to the prosecutor, David Ebiruku, “The cleric committed an offence that contravened section 31(1) of the Child Rights Laws of Ondo State 2007 and is punishable under Section 31(2) of the same Laws.”

The charge sheet read: “That you, Olusegun Victor, male, 31 years old, at about 1 pm on July 24, 2024, at No 73 Owode, off Airport Road, Oba-Ile, Akure within Akure magisterial district, did commit a felony, to wit, unlawful sexual intercourse on a minor, (name withheld), 15 years, thereby committed an offence contrary to section 31(1) of the Child Rights’ Laws of Ondo State 2007 and punishable under section 31(2) of the same laws.”

The suspect’s plea was not taken, as the prosecutor advised the magistrate to remand him. Counsel to the minor, Alex Odunayo Olademehin, requested time to respond to the remand application.

In his verdict, Magistrate Taiwo Lebi remanded Mr Olusegun to the correctional centre, adjourning the hearing to September 19, 2024, for the bail application hearing.

It was alleged that Mr Olusegun had impregnated five other minors before he was caught at Oba Ile in Akure North LGA of the state.

The Federal Government has increased the feeding allowance for inmates at the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCos) by 50 per cent.

The service spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, made the disclosure at the monthly news conference organised by the Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee (SCIPC) hosted by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Abuja.

Mr Abubakar stated that the review, effective from August 24, aims to cushion the high cost of food in the nation. He also debunked a viral video depicting poor nutrition of inmates, saying it does not represent the NCoS mandate on reformation and rehabilitation.

“The government has actually reviewed the feeding allowance of inmates in our custody by 50 per cent, and this is just the first phase of the review. The government is also looking at the next phase, where they will actually improve the allowances of the inmates,” Mr Abubakar said.

He highlighted the progress made in reforming inmates, citing over 1000 pursuing degree programmes, 1282 doing diploma and masters degree programmes, and six pursuing PhD programmes.

“We have what I refer to as public safety through our reformatory activities… The strides recorded are due to the care and serene environment provided by the service for the inmates to pursue their education and acquire life skills,” Mr Abubakar added.

He also mentioned the release of 72 and 185 inmates in Ondo and Gombe states, facilitated by the service in collaboration with the chief judges.

“The move is part of efforts to change inmates’ psyche and behaviour to help in their smooth reintegration into society,” Mr Abubakar said.

A public hearing on a groundbreaking bill aimed at revolutionizing electricity generation, transmission, and distribution in Ogun State has received widespread acclaim.

The legislation, spearheaded by the Ogun State House of Assembly, seeks to tackle the perennial energy challenges plaguing residents and businesses.

The forum, which brought together experts from Boston Power Limited, the Distribution Company (DISCO), the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Forum, the Nigeria Society of Engineers, and government officials, provided a platform for stakeholders to contribute to the legislative process and shape the future of the state’s power sector.

The importance of involving engineers and technicians with expertise in the power sector in the bill’s development was emphasized, as well as the need for Public-Private Partnerships to ensure the success and sustainability of the State Power Sector Law.

In his opening remarks, Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide highlighted the significance of addressing the nation’s energy crisis.

He praised the State Government’s efforts to create an efficient electricity market and the National Assembly’s initiative to decentralize electricity generation.

The bill, titled “House Bill No. 017/OG/2024,” aims to transform Ogun State’s electricity landscape by improving generation, transmission, and distribution, establishing a vibrant electricity market, and protecting consumer rights.

“In this wise, the House, in line with its legislative practice and procedure, organized this Forum to provide an avenue for stakeholders to participate in an elaborate discussion on the proposed bill and make recommendations for further consideration by the appropriate House Committee towards ensuring that the Bill has necessary impetus and legislative credence required for the achievement of the desired goals”.

“Distinguished Honourable Members, Ladies and Gentlemen, let me inform you that this Bill has been extensively debated at the Plenary Sessions held on the Floor of the Hallowed Chamber, so that the House, as partners in progress, could support the present administration in its mission to improve the living standards of its citizens, through appropriate legislation”.

“I therefore urge you all to contribute constructively and where necessary, you can forward your memorandum to the House for consideration”, he submitted.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Water Resources, Energy and Rural Development and the Sponsor of the bill, Hon. ( Dr.) Babatunde Tella, highlighted the need to address the erratic and epileptic nature of power supply in the country, which he noted had negatively impacted the socio- economic lives of the people.

He stressed that the bill had the potentials to create a more conducive environment for businesses and improve the overall quality of lives of the people and investors in the State.

According to him, the bill was aimed at achieving an efficient and effective electricity market for the State; establish a regulatory Commission for electricity market in the State, promote and support investment in electric power projects within the State as well as ensure that the State had enough electric power generation, transmission and distribution capacity to meet its demand at every time amongst others.

The Federal High Court in Lagos has scheduled September 12 for the hearing of all applications related to the suit seeking the permanent forfeiture of assets linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele.

Justice Deinde Dipeolu set the date after hearing submissions from counsel representing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Emefiele, and the occupants of one of the properties in question.

EFCC counsel Bilikisu Buhari-Bala informed the court that the commission had complied with the interim forfeiture order issued on August 15 by publishing the order in a newspaper on August 28. She also noted that two applications had been filed by Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), but were not yet ripe for hearing.

Ojo sought an adjournment to September 9 to hear his client’s applications, which aim to stay further proceedings in the forfeiture suit. “The law allows such an application to take precedence over the substantive application,” he argued.

Chibuzor Opara, representing the occupants of 8a Adekunle Lawal Road, Ikoyi, requested an adjournment to file his clients’ processes.

Justice Dipeolu adjourned the matter to September 12 for the hearing of all applications.

The suit seeks the permanent forfeiture of assets including $2,045 million USD, as well as several properties in Lagos and Delta State, and two share certificates of Queensdorf Global Fund Limited Trust belonging to Emefiele.

The court had previously ordered the EFCC to publish the interim forfeiture order in a national newspaper, allowing interested parties to show cause why the assets should not be finally forfeited to the Federal Government.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly denounced the recent fuel price increase by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) from N617 to approximately N900.

The NBA described the sudden price hike as harsh and unjustified, imposing an unbearable burden on ordinary Nigerians.

According to NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), the significant and abrupt hike will exacerbate economic challenges faced by millions, causing a cascading effect on the cost of living, transportation, and essential goods and services.

Osigwe emphasized that many Nigerians are already grappling with inflation, unemployment, and hardship, making this additional financial strain unsustainable.

While acknowledging the need for economic reforms, the NBA stressed that decisions must consider their impact on citizens’ welfare.

The association called on the Federal Government to immediately halt the policy implementation and engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders, including civil society organizations, labour unions, and economic experts, to explore sustainable and less punitive alternatives.

The NBA urged the government to prioritize citizens’ welfare, particularly the most vulnerable, and pursue policies that alleviate hardships.

The association remains committed to upholding the rule of law and advocating for Nigerians’ rights and well-being, standing ready to engage constructively with the government to find a more equitable solution.

Lagos State is poised to establish a drug manufacturing agency to enhance access to high-quality medications and consumables.

The announcement was made by State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, during the opening of the 7th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers’ Expo (NPME) in Lagos.

Prof. Abayomi revealed that a draft law for the proposed agency is being prepared and will soon be submitted to the State House of Assembly for approval.

The initiative aims to boost local drug manufacturing, ensure total quality assurance, and facilitate random drug testing in collaboration with NAFDAC. It also seeks to strengthen ties with the private sector.

He emphasized that the new agency would help Lagos keep pace with other states in drug production and ensure global best practices in the industry.

Abayomi stressed the importance of medicine security and national safety, noting that substandard drugs can pose significant health risks.

The commissioner urged local producers to adhere to high standards to avoid compromising public health and to contribute to the self-sufficiency of Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector.

President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the need for global leaders to adopt multilateralism and reject protectionism in order to achieve enduring peace, security, and stability.

Speaking at a high-level meeting on peace and security at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, China, President Tinubu stressed that the complex challenges facing the world today, including food insecurity and armed conflict, require collaborative efforts founded on mutual respect, fairness, and inclusiveness.

As Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Tinubu addressed the gathering on Thursday, highlighting the importance of partnerships in addressing global challenges.

He emphasized that only through collective action and cooperation can lasting solutions be found to the pressing issues affecting the world.

”I thank the African Union for being very consistent in their advocacy for global peace and working towards the realization of its vision for a peaceful and secure Africa as articulated in Agenda 2063.

”The AU’s Silencing the Guns Initiative has been pivotal in restoring peace across the continent and re-enforcing the call for global peace.

”Your Excellencies, as the world searches for new ways of establishing an enduring peace amidst complicated and dynamic security challenges across regions, I say that there is an urgent need to rethink the approach to global governance and economic development.

”Embracing multilateralism and rejecting protectionism and strengthening cooperative partnership is essential if we must achieve lasting peace, security, stability, and prosperity for future generations.

”We have very little time left and I send sincere appreciation to the People’s Republic of China for its unwavering commitment to building a shared future for the advancement of humanity,” the President said.

President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace, good governance, and security across West Africa while commending China’s contributions to Africa’s development through initiatives like the Belt and Road and FOCAC.

He also highlighted the importance of confronting the root causes of conflicts, such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice, emphasizing that true peace is not just the absence of war, but the presence of justice, equity, economic opportunity, and human security.

”Nigeria has played a pivotal role in ECOWAS evolution. Throughout the bloc’s transition from an economic bloc to an integrated regional security architecture for West Africa, Nigeria has been there at the forefront.

”Nigeria’s leadership has been critical in developing mechanisms for conflict resolution and management.

”ECOWAS remains deeply committed to upholding good governance, combating terrorism, providing humanitarian aid, and engaging in intensive peacekeeping, diplomacy, and mediation.

”Nigeria’s approach to fostering peace and stability in West Africa is comprehensive, combining military intervention, diplomatic engagement, dialogue, negotiations, and mutually-beneficial economic collaboration.

”Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to peacebuilding has solidified its position as a cornerstone of regional stability. We will continue to strengthen our efforts in support of a more secure and prosperous West Africa. I assure you,” the President stated.

As Nigerians face a prolonged petrol scarcity, the Federal Government is contemplating granting Aliko Dangote’s refinery the authority to set petrol prices.

This move comes after the NNPCL increased the pump price of petrol on Tuesday, exacerbating the crisis.

Sources revealed that the government plans to allow Dangote to set the price of gasoline for petroleum marketers starting next month.

Temitope Ajayi, senior special assistant to the president, stated, “Dangote Refinery will certainly not sell their products below market value… The role of the petroleum industry regulator will be to ensure product quality and fair pricing.”

Aliko Dangote, chairman of Dangote Industries Limited, presented the first sample of petrol produced at his refinery on Tuesday, announcing that it would meet the demands of Nigerians and sub-Saharan Africa.

He disclosed that the Federal Executive Council is working on a new pricing arrangement for petrol produced from the Dangote Refinery, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The sudden increase in fuel prices, rising from N600 to N855 per litre, has sparked concerns. Sources revealed that a directive was issued to retail outlets to adjust petrol prices upwards, following the NNPC Retail Management’s approval of the hike.

This price surge comes amidst the company’s acknowledged difficulties in importing fuel, citing an $8 billion debt.

• Price Hikes Not Caused by Government, Minister Clarifies

• NNPC, National Security Adviser Join Forces to End Scarcity

Vice President Kashim Shettima has summoned an urgent meeting with key stakeholders to tackle the persistent fuel scarcity plaguing the nation.

The meeting, held on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, who is currently on an official visit to China, included Minister of State for Petroleum Heineken Lokpobiri, NNPCL CEO Mele Kyari, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

Following the discussions, Lokpobiri addressed reporters at the State House, reassuring the public that the fuel crisis would soon be alleviated.

Lokpobiri assured Nigerians that fuel will be available throughout the country by this weekend.

He emphasized that the NNPC has sufficient fuel supplies to meet national demand, urging Nigerians to remain calm.

Lokpobiri also highlighted that increased availability of petroleum products would foster competition, driving down prices.

He further clarified that the government was not responsible for recent fuel price hikes, aiming to alleviate concerns and reassure the public of prompt resolution.

“The administration remains committed to addressing the challenges and ensuring that the supply chain can meet the demands of all Nigerians in the coming days,” the Minister stated.

The Lagos State Government has taken a significant step towards actualizing the Green Line Rail mass transit project by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC).

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced this on Thursday, stating, “Lagos, yet another Metro line? Absolutely! The Green Line Metro is here. Today, we signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated and China Harbour Engineering Company to bring this ambitious project to life.”

The Green Line, a 68km rail line, will connect the Lekki Free Zone to Marina, linking with the Blue Line at Marina.

Sanwo-Olu emphasized the project’s impact, saying, “This rail line is projected to carry over 500,000 passengers daily at launch, rising to over a million as demand grows. With the Ministry of Finance Incorporated and CHEC leading the design, financing, and operation, the Green Line will redefine public transport in Lagos.”

Sanwo-Olu added, “The Green Line complements our existing rail lines, including the Red Line, which has already begun partial operations. Together, these lines form the backbone of our Strategic Transport Masterplan, designed to create a fast, efficient, and connected Lagos.”

The Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, had earlier revealed that the state was seeking investors for the project.

The Green Line is part of the state’s Strategic Transport Masterplan, which includes six rail systems differentiated by colors: Green, Purple, Yellow, Orange, Blue, and Red.

A devastating attack on the Briun community in Bou-Ko kingdom, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, has left two residents dead.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night at approximately 8 pm, when unknown gunmen opened fire, striking fear into the hearts of residents.

Many residents who heard the gunfire remained indoors, while others fled the community in panic. The motive behind the attack is still unknown, leaving residents wondering about the assailants’ intentions.

Bright Nwiyorde, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Ken Saro-Wiwa Surveillance Group, and a resident of the area, condemned the attack and called for a thorough investigation.

He urged the government, police, and local authorities to work together to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Nwiyorde stated, “We need a thorough investigation to ensure those responsible face the law. We also need improved security measures to prevent such incidents from happening again.”

The State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, acknowledged that she had not received a report of the incident but promised to investigate and provide an update.

The attack has raised concerns about the security situation in the region, with many calling for increased measures to protect residents and prevent future attacks.