The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

Underage drinking: NAFDAC pushes tighter sachet alcohol regulation
- ….as Rivers, Lagos and Kaduna top survey on access by minors
The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has reiterated the need for stronger enforcement of age restrictions, regulation of packaging, and community participation to curb alcohol abuse among minors.

She said the issue should not be treated lightly, warning that underage drinking increases the risk of early addiction, road accidents, and wider social problems.

She said her concerns were supported by a national survey conducted by NAFDAC in collaboration with the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN), which revealed high levels of alcohol access and consumption among minors and underage children nationwide.

The study, carried out by Research and Data Solutions Ltd, Abuja, between June and August 2021, surveyed 1,788 respondents in six States representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Children under 13 were classified as minors, those aged 13–17 as underage, while adults were 18 and above.

According to her, additional qualitative data were obtained from 161 participants through focus group discussions and key informant interviews with retailers.

Findings, she said, showed that 54.3 percent of minors and underage children purchase alcohol for themselves, while 49.9 percent obtain it from friends and relatives, 45.9 percent at social gatherings, and 21.7 percent from parents’ homes.

Read Also: NAFDAC resumes sachet alcohol ban enforcement despite protests

According to her, sachets and PET bottles were the most common forms, with 47.2 percent of minors and 48.8 percent of underage children buying alcohol in sachets, while 41.2 percent of minors and 47.2 percent of underage children used PET bottles.

The survey indicated that glass bottles were procured by 27.6 percent of the underage, the DG said.

The highest access via sachets and PET bottles, according to her, was reported in Rivers (68 and 64.5 percent), Lagos (52.3 and 47.7 percent), and Kaduna (38.6 and 28.4 percent).

On consumption, she noted that the survey found that 63.2 percent of minors and 54.0 percent of underage children drink alcohol occasionally.

However, according to her, alarmingly, 9.3 percent of minors and 25.2 percent of underage children drink daily, while 11.3 percent of minors and 9.4 percent of underage children consume alcohol at least once a week.

Commenting on the findings, Adeyeye said, “Alcohol is one of the most widely used substances of abuse among youths, and it is a growing public health concern in Nigeria

“Access to alcohol by children can be limited if pack sizes that can be easily concealed are not available. A ban on small pack sizes (sachets and less than 200 ml bottles) can reduce the menace of underage drinking.

“Consumption of alcohol should raise alarm for parents, teachers, religious leaders, and the community at large,” she admonished.
February 3, 2026
Reps launch probe into airport, seaport concessions

The House of Representatives on Tuesday commenced an investigation into the concessioning and management of Nigeria’s seaports and airports to assess whether the arrangements have delivered value for money and contributed to the country’s economic development.

The probe was announced at the inaugural meeting of the ad hoc committee constituted to conduct the investigation.

Speaking at the meeting, Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, said the legislature was determined to ensure that the concession of critical national infrastructure was achieving its intended objectives.

According to him, the committee is mandated to investigate, examine, and evaluate the performance of concessionaires operating federal airport and seaport terminals, as well as related shipping activities, from 2006 to 2025.

It will also assess the benefits that have accrued to the Federal Government within the period.

Abbas explained that the decision to concession key assets, particularly airports and seaports, was aimed at improving efficiency, attracting private sector investment, modernising infrastructure, enhancing service delivery, and increasing government revenue, while reducing the operational burden on the state.

He added that nearly two decades after the introduction of the concession framework, it has become necessary for the National Assembly, in its representative capacity, to undertake a comprehensive review of the outcomes of the policy.

He said, “For the avoidance of doubt, this exercise is not an attempt to undermine legitimate private sector participation. It is rather an expression of the House’s constitutional mandate to conduct oversight, ensure accountability, and safeguard national interests.

“Nigerians deserve to know whether these concessions have delivered value for money, complied with contractual obligations, enhanced national competitiveness, protected public assets, and contributed meaningfully to economic growth, employment, and revenue generation.”

Thew Speaker said further that the scope of the Committee’s assignment is broad and critical, including, “An examination of the terms and conditions of concession agreements entered into from 2006 to 2025; an assessment of revenue flows, remittances, and other financial benefits accruing to the Federal Government and its agencies and a review of compliance with contractual, regulatory, and safety obligations by concessionaires.”

The committee is also to conduct an appraisal of infrastructure development, operational efficiency, service quality, and labour issues.

Identify the challenges, gaps, and systemic weaknesses within the concession framework, and formulate clear, practicable recommendations to improve policy, legislation, and future concession arrangements.

Read Also: FG signs PPP deal to upgrade Enugu Airport

Turning to members of the committee, the Speaker told them that “the House has reposed enormous confidence in your integrity, competence, and sense of patriotism. You are expected to carry out this assignment with objectivity, professionalism, and transparency, guided solely by facts, documents, and the overriding national interest. Your work must reflect fairness to all stakeholders while remaining firm in the defence of public assets and public trust.

“I urge you to openly and constructively engage relevant stakeholders; Let your proceedings be thorough, evidence-based, and free from preconceived conclusions. Above all, ensure that your findings and recommendations will strengthen governance, deepen accountability, and enhance the sustainability of Nigeria’s transport and maritime sectors”.

He said the outcome of this investigation will not only shape public confidence in concessioning as a policy tool but will also inform future reforms in public-private partnerships across critical sectors of our economy. History will judge us by how faithfully we discharge this responsibility to the Nigerian people.

Chairman of the committee, Kolawole Akinlayo, said the Committee was constituted in response to growing national concern over the management, performance, transparency, and value outcomes of concession arrangements governing some of Nigeria’s most strategic public assets.

He said these assets, which include seaports, airports, terminals, and jetties, are not ordinary commercial facilities but are sovereign economic gateways, national security infrastructure, and critical enablers of trade, mobility, and development.

The Ekiti lawmaker said the House recognizes the critical importance of the nation’s maritime and port infrastructure to economic growth, trade facilitation, and national revenue generation, and resolved to establish this Committee to ensure a thorough and evidence-based review of the benefits accruing to the Federal Government from these operations.

Her assured that the Committee will engage relevant government agencies, regulatory bodies, and private sector stakeholders, including the Nigerian Ports Authority, concessionaires, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Bureau of Public Procurement, the Shippers’ Council, operators of crude oil and gas terminals, domestic vessel owners and charterers, importers, shipping companies and Banks.

He said, “Our engagements will focus on compliance with applicable laws, operational efficiencies, complaints of statutory breaches, and revenue performance, among other critical areas.

“Our objective is clear: to ensure that the Federal Government and the Nigerian people derive maximum benefits from our port and terminal operations, that revenues due are fully captured, and that operational lapses or inefficiencies are identified and addressed.

“This is not only an exercise in review but a critical step toward strengthening governance, promoting accountability, and fostering an enabling environment for sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime sector.”

February 3, 2026
COAS: Army adopts multi-domain strategy to combat insecurity

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Nigerian Army deliberately recalibrated its operational doctrine, force posture, and employment of capabilities through a comprehensive multi-domain strategy in order to tackle the country’s current security threats.

He said the approach integrates decisive kinetic action with intelligence fusion, inter-agency cooperation, joint operations with sister services, and sustained international partnerships.

The COAS said this when he delivered a lecture titled “Combating Asymmetric Threats to National Security in Nigeria: The Nigerian Army in Perspective” at the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, on Tuesday.

General Shaibu noted that the contemporary global security environment has undergone a fundamental transformation, shifting from traditional state-centric warfare to complex intra-state conflicts dominated by non-state actors, including cybercriminals and transnational organised crime networks that deliberately exploit governance gaps, societal vulnerabilities, and emerging technologies.

He highlighted the growing impact of advanced technologies, enhanced training regimes, and deeper jointness with sister services in improving situational awareness, operational reach, and mission effectiveness.

General Shaibu stressed that enduring peace can only be achieved when military operations are reinforced by effective governance, justice delivery, and inclusive socio-economic development.

He reaffirmed the Army’s unwavering commitment to a dynamic, intelligence-driven, and technology-enabled approach in confronting asymmetric threats to national security.

Read Also: Army prioritises troop welfare, cautions personnel against substance abuse

The COAS said, “Asymmetric threats thrive on adaptability, anonymity, and the targeting of civilians to erode public confidence and state authority.

“Our response must therefore be equally adaptive, proactive, intelligence-led and collaborative, leveraging military power alongside technology, whole-of-government coordination and strategic partnerships.”

He explained that across Nigeria’s geo-political zones, the Army operations have been deliberately tailored to prevailing threat dynamics.

“In the North-East, sustained counter-insurgency operations have continued to degrade terrorist capabilities through a combination of offensive manoeuvres, intelligence-driven strikes and population-centric stabilisation efforts,’ the COAS said.

Shaibu noted that in the North-West theatre, wide-ranging joint operations have intensified pressure on bandit groups, disrupted their logistics and financing networks, and strengthened the protection of vulnerable communities.

“Meanwhile, in the North-Central region, enduring stabilisation operations have focused on area domination, protection of civilians and the containment of communal and militia-related violence,” he said.

February 3, 2026
PENGASSAN denies issuing statement on alleged IOCs maltreatment of staff

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) national secretariat said it was yet to issue an official statement on the alleged International Oil Companies (IOCs) maltreatment of Nigerian staff.

This was contained in the rejoinder that the association’s Comrade Jerry Amah issued.

He said, “The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) National Secretariat has noted with concern a recent publication in one of the national dailies (not The Nation) alleging that the Association accused TotalEnergies Nigeria Limited of maltreatment of Nigerian employees, harassment by expatriates, violations of the Nigerian Local Content Act, racism, among other claims.

“The National Leadership of PENGASSAN categorically states that it has neither issued any statement on this matter nor provided any document to the media. The cited publication referenced an internal document between staff and their management without authorization, constituting a breach of privacy and confidentiality, which the Association strongly condemns.”

Read Also: PENGASSAN pays tribute to late president 20 years after Sosoliso tragedy

The rejoinder explained that PENGASSAN is a structured organization, and only the National Leadership is authorized to communicate the Association’s official position.

The rebuttal reads in part, “While we respect the rights of individuals and groups to raise concerns of national interest, we caution against misusing PENGASSAN’s name to lend weight to unverified allegations.

“Such actions risk creating unnecessary workplace tension and damaging the reputation of both the Association and the industry. We wish to state clearly that PENGASSAN has no connection with the said MIND group.

“The Association remains committed to dialogue and constructive engagement with all stakeholders in the oil and gas industry. Our mandate is to protect the welfare and professional interests of our members while ensuring industrial harmony.

“We will not condone sensationalism or unverified claims that may undermine the stability of the sector.

“PENGASSAN is taking immediate steps to investigate the circumstances surrounding this breach and will take appropriate actions against those responsible. In the meantime, we urge all stakeholders to disregard any statement not duly issued by the National Secretariat.”

February 3, 2026
Drama as suspect dares court to jail him over alleged death threat

There was mild drama on Tuesday at the Akungba-Akoko Division of the Magistrates’ Court in Ondo State as a suspect, Mr Segun Orungbeja, openly challenged the magistrate during his arraignment over an alleged threat to kill a man with a cutlass.

Mr Orungbeja, who was brought before the court by the police, stunned the courtroom when Magistrate K. A. Kolawole asked what led to his arrest.

Visibly angry, the suspect fired back, “If you want to sentence me, you can go ahead; my God is watching you.”

The outburst briefly disrupted proceedings before order was restored.

Read Also: Senate okays Justice Oyewole for Supreme Court

Police prosecutor in the case, Inspector Ola Boboye, told the court that Orungbeja allegedly threatened to kill one Abiodun Akintunde with a cutlass.

He accused the suspect of conduct likely to cause a breach of peace by persistently demanding money from the complainant, who reportedly owed him nothing.

According to the charge sheet, the alleged offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 86 of the Criminal Code, Cap 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

Defence counsel, Eniayewu B. J., pleaded for leniency and bail, urging the court to temper justice with mercy and assuring that his client would not abscond.

In his ruling, Mr Kolawole granted the suspect bail but ordered that he be remanded pending the perfection of the bail conditions.

The case was adjourned until February 4, 2026.

February 3, 2026
FG seeks increased investment in ports, targets productivity boost — Dantsoho

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to attracting increased investor participation in port development, while outlining measures aimed at improving productivity across Nigeria’s maritime gateways.

Dantsoho spoke at the Investopia forum held in Lagos, which brought together stakeholders from the United Arab Emirates and the Lagos State Government.

He said Nigeria is positioning itself to embrace development partnerships through the sustained modernisation and rehabilitation of its port infrastructure.

According to him, recent federal initiatives are geared towards making Nigeria a leading port destination in Africa.

He noted that Nigerian ports are investment-ready, offering significant opportunities for public-private partnerships, citing the Lekki Deep Seaport as a successful example.

The NPA managing director highlighted ongoing modernisation programmes, including the National Single Window, which is expected to become operational by the end of the first quarter of 2026.

He also referenced approvals for port rehabilitation projects and the introduction of electronic truck call-up systems as evidence of government commitment to reforming the port sector.

Dantsoho further disclosed that approvals have been granted for the development of new ports in locations such as Badagry, Olokola, and Bonny, describing the projects as part of efforts to create a more attractive investment environment for both local and foreign investors.

On the African Continental Free Trade Area, he said modern and resilient ports, supported by integrated logistics systems, are critical to unlocking Africa’s trade potential, improving efficiency, and strengthening transparency across maritime and logistics value chains.

He added that the NPA has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strategic partnerships by presenting its vision for efficient and future-ready port infrastructure at the Investopia Global Lagos Summit.

Read Also: How blue economy can boost job creation in Africa, by Dantsoho

The strategic panel session, themed “Infrastructure and Logistics for Africa’s Next Phase of Trade,” also featured the Regional Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, Mohamed Almenhali. Discussions focused on port modernisation, corridor connectivity, and the deployment of digital trade infrastructure, including port community systems and the Electronic Truck Monitoring System, aimed at reducing congestion, improving compliance and enhancing cargo movement from ports to inland depots.

The summit, co-hosted by Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), brought together global investors, senior government officials, and industry leaders to explore opportunities across infrastructure, logistics, energy transition, financial systems, and secure supply chains.

According to him, Nigeria’s size and location position it as West Africa’s trade gateway, supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and providing access to landlocked markets. The NPA MD emphasised the importance of integrated logistics platforms, streamlined customs processes, and coordinated inland depots to improve trade flow and reduce congestion at ports.

The summit builds on momentum from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to the UAE, during which Nigeria and the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to deepen cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure, logistics, and digital trade.

President Tinubu’s announcement of Lagos as the co-host city for Investopia reflects Nigeria’s commitment to attracting global capital and translating bilateral agreements into actionable investments.

He underscored that mobilising private capital through bankable projects and credible public-private partnership frameworks, alongside strategic partnerships with global investors like the UAE, will strengthen Nigeria’s supply chains and position the country as a hub for regional and global trade.

He reaffirmed its commitment to advancing port reforms, improving operational efficiency, and promoting sustainable maritime practices, demonstrating Nigeria’s readiness to embrace development and investment that will transform its ports into a driver of regional integration and economic growth.

February 3, 2026
Customs clamps down on smugglers, seizes cannabis sativa, rice worth N3.3b

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ Ikeja, has intercepted 6,954 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 1,431 kilogrammes of synthetic cannabis, popularly known as “Ghanaian Loud”, and other prohibited items worth N3.32 billion within Lagos and its environs.

Addressing reporters in Lagos yesterday, the Area Controller, Aliyu Gambo, described the seizures as the outcome of a strategic operation anchored on intelligence-led enforcement.

Gambo added that the unit made 144 seizures after reorganising patrol patterns, strengthening internal supervision, and shifting from predictable checkpoints to targeted deployments across the Lagos metropolis.

According to him, the seizures included 6,954 bags of foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to 12 trailer loads), 77 bags of foreign sugar, 21 units of used vehicles, 3,362 jerrycans of foreign vegetable oil, 20,700 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 915 bales of used clothing, and a 20-foot container loaded with stone-coated aluminium roofing sheets.

In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, Gambo revealed that officers intercepted 3,029 parcels of synthetic cannabis weighing about 1,431kg, describing the operation as a significant disruption of criminal supply networks fueling insecurity in the country.

“These seizures occurred against the backdrop of rising banditry, terrorism, and other societal vices threatening national stability. Drug trafficking fuels these crimes by providing chemical stimulants that embolden perpetrators and erode social order,” he said.

He disclosed that the command lost one of its officers in the line of duty on Tuesday, noting that the development had been formally communicated to the Customs high command.

The Comptroller also announced notable environmental and wildlife-related interceptions, including four live pangolins rescued along Alapa Creek, Ajilete, and handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre.

Similarly, the unit seized 581 used refrigerator compressors concealed in a vehicle, which Aliyu said posed serious environmental and public health risks due to hazardous substances and greenhouse gas emissions.

Read Also: Customs to fix trade leakages with tech

He explained that the seizure aligned with Section 55(1)(d) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and the Basel Convention, both of which regulate transboundary movement of hazardous waste.

Aliyu said eight suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures and are currently under investigation.

In line with inter-agency collaboration, he disclosed that the seized cannabis would be formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

Beyond enforcement, Gambo said the unit recovered N36.89 million between December 10, 2025, and the date through demand notices issued over cargo misdeclaration and other import-export compliance breaches.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to combating smuggling, trans-border crimes, and economic sabotage, while facilitating legitimate trade through professionalism, intelligence-driven operations, and collaboration with sister security agencies and border communities.

He expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the opportunity to serve, and urged officers of the unit to sustain the momentum in safeguarding Nigeria’s economy, environment, and national security.

February 3, 2026
Tinubu pledges federal support as Ondo marks 50th anniversary
- …as Aiyedatiwa pays tributes to founding fathers
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to supporting Ondo State in harnessing its economic potential through improved infrastructure, enhanced security, and community empowerment.

The president said the federal government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, would work with the state to unlock opportunities in agriculture, education, technology, tourism, and the blue economy, to promote inclusive growth and development.

Tinubu gave the assurance in a goodwill message delivered by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, at the celebration of Ondo State’s 50th anniversary held on Tuesday at the Akure Township Stadium.

The event attracted several dignitaries, including Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji; former Ondo State Governor Dr Olusegun Mimiko; Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunusi; as well as other prominent indigenes of the state.

In his message, the President commended the people of Ondo State for their resilience, industry, and commitment to democratic governance, noting that their participation in the last general elections contributed to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

He also praised traditional rulers, elders, civil servants, farmers, artisans, and traders for their roles in the state’s development over the past five decades.

According to him, since its creation, Ondo State has made notable strides in education, public service, culture, and economic development, producing leaders and professionals who have contributed significantly to national progress.

“Fifty years ago, Ondo State was created to empower its people, harness local talent, and bring governance closer to communities. Today, we celebrate a state that has distinguished itself in education, public service, culture, and economic contribution.

Read Also: Ondo at 50: River Basin chief lauds Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to state

“From Akure to Owo, from Ondo to Ikare, and from Okitipupa to the riverine communities of Ilaje, the people of this state have consistently demonstrated diligence, innovation, and unity. You have produced leaders, educators, professionals, and citizens whose contributions have shaped Nigeria’s growth and stability.

“This golden jubilee is not only a celebration of the past but also a vision for the future. Ondo State is blessed with fertile land, a long coastline, mineral resources, and a vibrant youth population. Agriculture, education, technology, tourism, and the blue economy are areas where the state can excel, creating prosperity for all.

“The federal government under the Renewed Hope Agenda remains committed to supporting Ondo State in harnessing these opportunities, improving infrastructure, strengthening security, and empowering communities, ensuring that every citizen benefits from growth and development,” he said.

Describing the golden jubilee as both a celebration and a call to action, President Tinubu urged residents to prioritise unity, peace, and cooperation to sustain development.

He described the youths in the state as the architects of the next fifty years and encouraged them to embrace innovation, education, and discipline.

He further emphasised the need for tolerance and mutual respect, adding that diversity in religion, politics, and culture should serve as a source of strength rather than division.

Tinubu added that the federal government would continue to support initiatives that promote social cohesion and equitable opportunities.

He, however, applauded the government and people of Ondo state on attaining the 50-year milestone and expressed optimism that the next phase of the state’s development would surpass its past achievements.

Earlier, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the golden jubilee as both a celebration of the past and a call to shape the future.

Aiyedatiwa said his administration’s development agenda would focus on security, economic diversification, infrastructure renewal, education, healthcare, and transparent governance.

“Our administration is guided by a clear and unwavering conviction that development must be people-centred, inclusive, and sustainable. Accordingly, our vision for Ondo state is anchored on the security of lives and property, economic diversification and value creation, infrastructural renewal and connectivity, human capital development, and accountable governance.

“Fifty years ago, Ondo state emerged not as a bureaucratic adjustment but as the fulfilment of a people’s long-held aspiration for self-expression, self-governance, dignity and destiny.

“Today, it is a living, breathing reality, and tomorrow, by the grace of God and the unity of our people, Ondo State shall stand even taller as a beacon of excellence and progress,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa also declared that his administration’s vision for the next phase of the state’s history would be anchored on people-centred, inclusive, and sustainable development.

He paid tribute to the founding fathers and mothers of the state, as well as farmers, teachers, civil servants, and youths whose sacrifices laid the foundation for development.

“We remember with gratitude our founding fathers and mothers, our revered traditional rulers, visionary political leaders, and courageous students whose sacrifices laid the foundations upon which we now stand,” he said.
February 3, 2026
2027: APC women’s group launched in Jigawa, targets mass mobilisation

A women-led political group within the All Progressives Congress, Danmodi Mata Zallah (Danmodi Purely Women), has been inaugurated in Jigawa State, with plans to mobilise at least 500,000 votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Malam Umar Namadi in the 2027 general elections.

The group was inaugurated by the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Ibrahim Garba Hannungiwa, who commended the initiative, describing the women’s political engagement as timely and unprecedented within the party.

Hannungiwa praised the organisation, vision, and commitment of the group, noting that its structure and defined objectives distinguish it from other women’s associations within the political space.

According to him, the level of coordination and political awareness demonstrated by the group reflects a growing consciousness among women in the state. He said he was impressed by their decision to mobilise in support of the party’s leadership at both federal and state levels.

The commissioner also briefed members on the progress of the party’s electronic registration exercise, following a recent stakeholders’ meeting convened by Governor Namadi to review the process. He described the exercise as progressing satisfactorily.

He further urged religious leaders to intensify public enlightenment efforts, stressing the importance of education and knowledge as enduring legacies.

“Our ulama must rise to their responsibility of enlightening the people, both men and women. When women are left uneducated, they become vulnerable to misinformation and external influence,” he warned.

Read Also: APC Delta North coalition calls for inclusion of pioneer members in governance

According to him, empowering women through education and enlightenment would strengthen society, preserve moral values, and promote inclusive political participation.

Speaking earlier, the State Coordinator of Danmodi Mata Zallah, Hajiya Maryam Muhammad Abubakar, said the association was established to sensitise and mobilise women to support and vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Malam Umar Namadi, and all APC candidates.

She described the group as a movement of patriotic women in Jigawa State who are committed to the re-election of President Tinubu and Governor Namadi for second terms in 2027, by the grace of God.

“Our objective is clear: to secure at least 500,000 women’s votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Malam Umar Namadi in the 2027 elections, God willing,” she said.

Hajiya Maryam disclosed that the group has a well-structured grassroots network, with coordinators at the local government level across all 27 local government areas of the state.

She added that the movement also has ward coordinators in all 287 wards, as well as 4,522 polling unit coordinators, aimed at ensuring effective mobilisation and voter outreach ahead of the polls.

February 3, 2026
Enugu police rescue woman from transnational human trafficking, arrest suspect

The Enugu State Police Command has foiled another transnational human trafficking operation, rescuing a 25-year-old woman who was trafficked to Mali for prostitution.

The police also arrested a 69-year-old man, identified as Eze Boniface, in connection with the crime.

The arrest was effected on January 21, 2026, by officers from the Igbo-Eze North Police Division, following a complaint filed by the victim’s parents.

The victim’s identity has been withheld for security reasons.

Read Also: Southeast Vision 2050 forum opens in Enugu, sets agenda for shared prosperity, regional integration

Preliminary investigations indicate that in May 2023, the suspect and his accomplices allegedly lured the victim and her parents with promises of lucrative employment in a foreign textile company, offering a daily wage of $100.

Contrary to these promises, the victim was trafficked to Mali, where she was reportedly forced into prostitution.

The syndicate is said to have profited approximately 500,000 CFA francs from her exploitation.

Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to dismantle the trafficking network, uncover other criminal activities linked to the syndicate, and apprehend all those involved.

CP Giwa also issued a stern warning to parents, guardians, and young people to be cautious of false promises of employment abroad and to avoid falling prey to human traffickers.

SP Daniel Ndukwe, the Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that the command remains committed to protecting citizens and curbing human trafficking in the region.

February 3, 2026