The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Seyi Law now SEMA Ambassador as LASEMA storms Lagos streets for awareness 

    Seyi Law now SEMA Ambassador as LASEMA storms Lagos streets for awareness 

    Ahead of the maiden State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) conference slated to begin Thursday, Lagos State Government has unveiled popular Comedian, Oluseyitan Aletile alias Seyi Law as Ambassador. 

    The unveiling was done by the Permanent Secretary (PS) Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu and the General Manager, Lagos State Command and Control Centre (C3), Femi Giwa, after a road show to drum public support for the conference, yesterday. 

    According to Oke-Osanyintolu, Seyi Law was chosen as ambassador to give the youths an icon to look up to, adding that plans had commenced to train young people working as area boys as local emergency responders in order to get them off the streets. 

    The Nation reports that the roadshow which commenced at the agency’s office in Alausa, proceeded to the Fire and Rescue Services before moving to the relevant stakeholder ministries inside the state secretariat on Awolowo Way and back to the C3. 

    In an interview with reporters after the roadshow, Oke-Osanyintolu said that LASEMA, NEMA and other stakehodlers were committed to emplacing a robust national emegency response strategy. 

    He said the goal was to ensure that across the country, emergency workers understood the importance of saving lives and efficiently utilising the golden hour. 

    The LASEMA boss said already President Bola Tinubu, through his policies, has shown that the safety and security of Nigerians were paramount to him. 

    He re-emphasised that the 112 national emergency number was currently working, adding that part of the deliverables from the conference would be to sync emergncy responsiveness at state and local government levels so that the SEMAs in all the states of the country would be in tune with global best practices. 

    “I want to assure the good people of Lagos that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has put everything in place to ensure a smooth summit for a more resilient Nigeria as it was President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that created LASEMA when he was the Lagos State Governor, so we are fully ready for the task ahead and we promise participants a more fulfilling time in Lagos,” he said. 

    Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental relations,Gbenga Oyerinde, during a brief interview in front of his ministry, said the SEMA summit was for participants to brainstorm with relevant stakeholders’ on efficient disaster management.

    “This administration has invested heavily in emergency and disaster management in ensuring the protection of lives and property of the residents of the state, so we are inviting all stakeholders’, professionals and the general public to join us for the three days SEMA conference to chart a new course for national emergency management for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he said. 

    Representatives of NEMA, Fire Service, LASAMBUS, Health, among others participated in the walk for the summit awareness with the theme Strengthening a sub-national emergency management for a resilient Nigeria.

  • SON unveils ISO 37003 for fraud control management system

    SON unveils ISO 37003 for fraud control management system

    The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has officially launched ISO 37003:2025, a Fraud Control Management System designed to strengthen transparency, accountability, and governance across the country.

    Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Abuja, SON Director-General, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, described the standard as a globally recognised framework that helps organisations prevent fraud before it occurs, detect it efficiently, and respond decisively to minimise damage.

    He added that ISO 37003:2025 also fosters a culture of integrity by embedding fraud prevention into the core of organisational operations.

    Dr. Okeke explained that adoption of the standard will benefit both the public and private sectors — reducing leakages and rebuilding trust in government while positioning Nigerian companies as credible and trustworthy partners to investors.

    He further stressed that widespread implementation would improve Nigeria’s global rankings and attract foreign direct investment.

    SON, he noted, will embark on awareness campaigns, training, and certification programmes to ensure effective adoption, calling for active participation from government leaders, industry captains, professional bodies, and civil society.

    Also speaking, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, Convener of ISO/TC309/WG8, highlighted that ISO 37003:2025 serves as a guardian for organisations managing fraud risks, noting that the process of developing the standard began during the ISO TC 309 plenary in Sydney, Australia, in November 2018.

    “There was awareness of fraud risks in organisations and existing fraud controls within the organisations, including internal fraud, whistleblowing, code of conduct, anti-fraud policies, fraud training, and management reviews to mitigate the impact of fraud.

    “With the existence of these internal mechanisms and statutory regulations, there was a clear need for an ISO standard dealing with fraud control. Research findings from the literature published by reputable sources show that fraud costs the global economy about $4 trillion per year. The chief executive of the Strategic Institute of Forensic Examiners put it at $4.7 trillion a year, so it is increasing.

    He added that this Amounts to a total loss of 7% in the annual turnover of the organisations. Based on the findings, the leadership of TC309 in 2022 approved the proposal and established Working Group 8 to develop a fraud control management system standard. After going through all the different stages of development, from working draft to committee draft, draft international standard to final draft international standard, the document was published as an international standard on 29th May 2025.

  • A’Ibom govt procures 50 units of CNG buses to boost transportation

    A’Ibom govt procures 50 units of CNG buses to boost transportation

    • …771km of roads ongoing, 31 bridges completed

    The Akwa Ibom State Government has procured 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and commenced the construction of ultra-modern terminals and bus stations across the state.

    Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, disclosed this on Tuesday during a joint press briefing with the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, and the Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh.

    Umanah also revealed that about 771km of roads are currently at various stages of construction, while 31 completed bridges are set for commissioning.

    He noted that the achievements reflect the progress made under Governor Umo Eno’s administration in just two years, across sectors guided by the ARISE Agenda, as Akwa Ibom marks its 38th anniversary.

    In the aviation sector, the commissioner said, “The aviation sector continues to soar with the acquisition of four new aircraft for Ibom Air, construction of the Aviation Village, and completion of the new Terminal Building and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Victor Attah International Airport.

    On security, he said, “In security, the establishment of the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways, recruitment of 4,500 community watch personnel, provision of gunboats and patrol vehicles, and creation of a Security and Command Centre have strengthened the State’s safety architecture”.

    Speaking on tourism, the commissioner said, “ecological remediation of 70 hectares of gullies and construction of the ARISE Resort are underway, alongside works at the 5,000-capacity Ibom International Convention Centre and Hotel and the ARISE Shopping City.

    “In training and empowerment, more than 10,000 youths and SMEs have benefited, and the administration is constructing a 2,000-capacity Amphi-Theatre to host the Annual Christmas Unplugged Event.

    “In addition, the newly established ₦100 million Creative Industry Fund is being deployed to strengthen talent development, drive capacity building, and expand opportunities for the entertainment and film sector, thereby positioning Akwa Ibom as a creative hub in Nigeria.

    “In roads and bridges, over 771 kilometres of roads are at various stages of construction, and 31 bridges have been completed.

    Umanah disclosed that, “In agriculture, the State has established the Ibom Model Farm, rolled out the Arise Home Farms Scheme and the Back-to-Farm Initiative, while distributing inputs to farmers.

    “In healthcare, there are now functional health centres across all LGAs, a State Health Insurance Scheme, a 350-bed International Hospital under development, an Emergency Ambulance Service, a Medical Oxygen Production Plant, and an expanded workforce of medical personnel”.

  • NYCN presidential aspirants sign peace accord ahead of national congress

    NYCN presidential aspirants sign peace accord ahead of national congress

    Five aspirants contesting for the position of President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) have signed a Peace Accord, pledging to accept the outcome of the forthcoming election.

    The accord, signed on Monday at the Ministry of Youth Development in Abuja, is aimed at fostering harmony and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere during the NYCN national elective congress, scheduled for October 5–8, 2025, in Abuja.

    Chairman of the NYCN National Transition Committee (NTC), Prince Gbenga Adedamola, who announced a progress report at the ceremony, said the committee has been working closely with the Congress Planning and Electoral Committees to guarantee a credible process.

    He noted that the congress, themed “Redemption Congress: Repositioning the Youth Council for Greatness,” marks a fresh chapter in NYCN’s history, following the dissolution of two factional executive councils earlier in August 2025.

    The aspirants expressed confidence in the process and reaffirmed their commitment to the unity and progress of the organization.

     “This Congress aims to reposition the NYCN for greater impact and effectiveness in advocating for youth development in Nigeria,” Adedamola said.

    He further explained that the NTC has secured a convenient location in Abuja for the national congress, with adequate security arrangements in place to ensure a smooth and successful event.

    “This development marks a significant milestone in the organisation’s efforts to promote youth development and empowerment in Nigeria.

    “The NYCN leadership expresses heartfelt gratitude to State Chapters and Voluntary Youth Organisations for their unwavering support and dedication, past leaders and stakeholders for their invaluable contributions and guidance, and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development for its supervisory role in ensuring transparency and accountability.

    “These efforts underscore the NYCN’s commitment to promoting youth development and empowerment in Nigeria,” he added.

  • SUG election: Police arrest three over gunshot incident at Ebonyi University

    SUG election: Police arrest three over gunshot incident at Ebonyi University

    The Police in Ebonyi State have arrested three suspects in connection with a gunshot incident that disrupted the Students’ Union Government (SUG) election at Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki.

    The incident occurred on Monday at the College of Agricultural Science campus during the announcement of election results, when gunshots were reportedly fired to disperse students.

    According to the report, a student was hit by a stray bullet and rushed to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, for urgent treatment.

    READ ALSO: 2027: ex-President Jonathan just one of our options, says PDP

    Police spokesperson Joshua Ukandu confirmed the arrests on Tuesday, naming the suspects as Lawrence Azubuike, Ibe Kenneth, and Njoku Joshua. He added that a locally made pistol was recovered.

    Ukandu said the suspects remain in custody and will be arraigned after investigations.

    He further noted that the Commissioner of Police, Adaku Uche-Anya, has assured the public of the command’s commitment to peace and security, urging officers to remain professional and accountable while intensifying efforts to curb crime, especially as the festive season approaches.

  • 2027: Coalition backs Tinubu’s re-election, says only continuity can sustain IOC confidence in Oil sector

    2027: Coalition backs Tinubu’s re-election, says only continuity can sustain IOC confidence in Oil sector

    A civil society coalition, the Alliance for Energy Stability and Economic Growth (AESEG), has urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, noting that his administration has restored investor confidence in the oil and gas sector.

    In a statement on Monday, AESEG President Dr. Suleiman Garba Danladi said the recent approval for Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPco) and Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited (NAE) to acquire TotalEnergies’ 12.5 per cent stake in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 118 highlights renewed trust by international oil companies in Nigeria’s regulatory framework under Tinubu’s leadership.

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) confirmed that Shell purchased 10 per cent of the asset for $408 million, while Agip acquired 2.5 per cent for $102 million. 

    The approval, granted under Section 95 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, followed a rigorous due diligence process confirming the firms’ technical competence, financial strength, and managerial capacity to sustain deepwater operations in the Bonga field.

    Dr. Danladi said such transactions were not only reshaping Nigeria’s energy landscape but also strengthening the country’s economic base.

    “President Tinubu’s reforms in the oil and gas industry have shown clear results. Today, we see Shell consolidating its stake in Nigeria’s deepwater, we see Agip reaffirming its commitments, and we see a regulator that is firm in protecting government interests. This is the kind of progress that only continuity in leadership can sustain,” he said.

    Read Also: Massive turnout for CVR shows Nigerians’ confidence in electoral process, says INEC

    The group recalled that only last week, the NUPRC revoked an $860 million deal involving TotalEnergies and Mauritius-based Chappal Energies for failure to meet financial obligations. 

    According to AESEG, this underscores the regulator’s strengthened resolve to enforce accountability, a move the group credited to Tinubu’s “decisive political will to reposition the sector.”

    “With these bold steps, Nigeria is no longer seen as a playground for speculative investors. Instead, serious players with track records of performance are being encouraged. This has positive implications for revenue, jobs, and energy security,” the statement added.

    Dr. Danladi also pointed out that the Bonga oilfield, Nigeria’s first deepwater project, remains a strategic contributor to the country’s crude output and foreign exchange earnings. 

    “By ensuring the continuity of such assets in the hands of experienced operators, Nigeria is laying the foundation for production stability and gradual recovery to the 2 million barrels per day mark,” he said.

    The group further argued that Nigeria’s oil and gas industry is entering a period of “delicate balance” as IOCs divest from onshore operations while strengthening deepwater investments. 

    “Only a steady hand at the helm of government, backed by political stability, can guarantee that Nigeria reaps the full benefits of this transition. We therefore urge Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” the statement said.

    AESEG concluded by warning that reversing course in leadership could shake investor confidence.

     “The oil majors are watching Nigeria closely. They are reassured by the current pace of reforms, but they also value predictability. Changing direction in 2027 could disrupt the gains we are seeing today,” Dr. Danladi added.

  • Police probe ARISE News anchor’s death in Abuja

    Police probe ARISE News anchor’s death in Abuja

    ARISE New Channels was thrown into mourning yesterday when a female member of staff, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, died during an armed robbery.

    The incident occurred at her residence in Katampe District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja yesterday.

    According to a statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on behalf of the management of ARISE News Channel yesterday evening.

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the management said has, however, launched an investigation into the incident.

    Beyond the airwaves, ARISE News Channel described the 29-year-old journalist referred to as Sommie as “a lawyer who was a professional and supportive colleague and a friend to many.”

    Read Also: Olubadan: Arisekola, Mosadoluwa celebrate Ladoja’s historic ascension

    “It is with heavy hearts that the management and staff of the ARISE News Channel announce the passing of our beloved colleague, News Anchor, Reporter and Producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu. Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025 following an armed robbery incident in her residence in Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police.

    “Sommie, 29, was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers.

    “We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time. Sommie’s voice is now silent but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory.”

     We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits,” Usman-Ajayi stated.

    Also confirming the incident, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, who spoke with our correspondent said the police have started investigating the matter, adding though no arrest has been made.

    Adeh said: “yes, we (the police) are aware of the incident and we are investigating it.  Nobody has been arrested but all I can say is that we have commenced investigation”.

  • NAF’s fighter jets pound terrorists’ hideout in Kwara

    NAF’s fighter jets pound terrorists’ hideout in Kwara

    • PDP decries rising insecurity in Northcentral state

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF)’s Component of Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), Sector 3, has conducted successful airstrikes on hostile elements in Kwara State.

     Its Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, said this in a statement yesterday.

    According to the statement, the air component carried out multiple coordinated missions on Sunday across Kakihun, Oke-Ode, Babanla, and surrounding areas.

    Reconnaissance and close air support operations were launched to deter threats, targeting hostile elements spotted east of Babanla.

    Ejodame added that concurrent surveillance flights covered key settlements and military positions, gathering vital intelligence to support ground operations.

    “These missions reaffirm NAF’s commitment to protecting troops and civilians, maintaining air superiority, and sustaining pressure on hostile actors.

    “All operations were completed successfully,” he said.

    He further assured Nigerians of the Air Force’s resolve to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and protect communities from threats.

    “Citizens are encouraged to remain confident, vigilant, and supportive of the Armed Forces as decisive actions continue to restore lasting peace and security across the country,” he added.

    Also, the Kwara State Police Command, in collaboration with the National Forest Security Service (NFSS), has started manhunt for the killers of 12 persons in Kwara community.

    Gunmen suspected to be bandits last Sunday invaded Oke-Ode community, Ifelodun Local Government Area and shot dead a monarch and 11 vigilance members.

    Read Also: NAF strikes kill 25 terrorists in Borno, Yobe

    The spokesperson of the state Police Command, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said: “Manhunt operations are ongoing, and the command assures residents that those responsible will be brought to justice.”

    The state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)  has raised the spate of killings and kidnappings.

    The party expressed “our deepest sorrow and outrage over the gruesome massacre of innocent citizens in Oke-Ode community by heartless bandits.

    “To us, this is a despicable and senseless act and it is the height of man’s inhumanity to man which must be condemned by all people of conscience,” PDP’s Publicity Secretary, Olusegun  Adewara, said in a statement.

    Adewara added that “the PDP condoles with the entire Oke-Ode community, particularly the bereaved families who lost their loved ones in this callous onslaught by criminals that appear to have overpowered the Kwara State Government and are tactically taking over the state.

    “Our hearts are broken for the families and friends of those brutally killed and the many now struggling in hospitals. The gruesome videos of the casualties circulating online make it look like Kwara is at war.

    “It is painfully clear that these criminals have overpowered the Kwara State Government and are basically taking over our state. What makes this tragedy even worse is the casual, “levity hand” way the Kwara State Government is treating the whole situation.

    “A responsible and responsive leader should visit Oke-Ode, stand with the mourners, and assure citizens of decisive action.”

    “Sadly, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has chosen to focus his energy on attacking the opposition, particularly Senator Bukola Saraki, rather than confronting the deepening insecurity ravaging the state.

    “We re-echo the voice of our leader: the opposition is not the governor’s problem. His real challenge lies in his own incompetence, nonchalance, and confused handling of the state’s worsening security situation.

    “Under the governor’s watch, terror is reigning, kidnappers are taking over rural villages and nowhere is safe again

    “What Kwara is experiencing is unprecedented, unfortunate, and a monumental leadership failure.

    “While we pray for the repose of the souls of those killed in this senseless attack and wish the injured quick recovery, we urge Governor Abdulrazaq to wake up from his slumber and stop dismissing every call for action as mere politics.

    “The protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of the government, and any leader who fails in this duty has failed woefully in every other area of governance.”

  • TETfund BoT’s N70b mini grid for 18 tertiary institutions

    TETfund BoT’s N70b mini grid for 18 tertiary institutions

    Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Board of Trustees (BoT) has said 18 tertiary institutions have been selected to benefit from its sustainable mini grid energy solutions.

    The board added that it had also approved mini grid power project under the 2025 intervention cycle, with N70 billion allocation across the instructions.

    BoT member, Nurudeen Adeyemi, an engineer; said this yesterday in Ilorin, Kwara State, at a town hall meeting for stakeholders of beneficiary institutions and surrounding communities in the Northcentral.

    He said the aim ‘’is to address one of the most persistent challenges facing our tertiary institutions and high cost of electricity.’’

    Said he: “This bold step will ensure a stable, cost effective and renewable electricity supply to campuses, thereby reducing operational costs and enhancing research and learning.

    “In the Northcentral, several projects were extended by the fund under the direction of the board of trustees.

    Read Also: Baze University management visits TETFUND, showcases tech-driven growth

    “Under the special high impact projects, institutions that benefited from the intervention include University of Ilorin, Kwara State, University of Jos, Plateau State, Benue State University, Federal Polytechnic, Ny’Ak Shendam, Plateau State, College of Agriculture Science and Technology, Nasarawa State and Federal Polytechnic Bida, Niger State.

    “Similarly, Federal College of Education, Odugbo, Benue State, Kwara State College of Education and Federal College of Education, Okene, Kogi State.

    “This town hall meeting is more than a gathering; it is a partnership for progress.

    “It symbolises the board’s determination to institutionalise transparency, accountability and inclusivity in the way we deliver educational interventions.

    “It also reflects our deep conviction that sustainable solutions must be built through dialogue, trust and collective action.”

  • Lagos govt arrests five suspects over ‘illegal’ dredging in Lekki

    Lagos govt arrests five suspects over ‘illegal’ dredging in Lekki

    The Lagos State government has arrested five persons over illegal dredging and land reclamation on the Lekki shoreline.

    It also sealed multiple sites in a sweeping enforcement executed by a joint ministerial task force.

    The task force comprising the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, and the Lands Bureau, targeted ongoing infractions along the Lagos Lagoon.

    Leading the exercise, the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu, announced the sealing of a property at 13A, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, over illegal reclamation and unapproved extension of its fence. He described the defiance of the owners, who allegedly ignored previous government warnings, as an act of “legendary audacity.”

    Read Also: Lagos govt engages Computer Village stakeholders on relocation to Katangowa

    “This property has been sealed several times since last year, yet the owners continue construction and social activities. Today, we have returned with other ministries to enforce the law,” Alebiosu said.

    He said the culprits would be prosecuted, adding that they risk forfeiting the illegally reclaimed land.

    Commissioner for Physical Planning, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, said while the owner originally presented plans for 1,200 square metres, the reclaimed area had expanded to over 8,000 square metres.