The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • ICRC calls for sanctions against abuse of Red Cross emblem

    ICRC calls for sanctions against abuse of Red Cross emblem

    The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has the raised alarm over the widespread misuse of the Red Cross emblem in Nigeria, warning that the abuse endangers humanitarian workers and erodes the emblem’s internationally protected status.

    Public Relations Specialist at the ICRC, Aliyu Dawobe, made the remarks in Lagos yesterday during the opening of a three-day First Aid and pre-hospital emergency training for journalists covering high-risk beats.

    He noted that the emblem, protected under international humanitarian law, is increasingly being misused by unauthorized businesses and individuals.

    Read Also: Nigeria opens door to new economy as Tinubu signs landmark tax reform laws

    He said: “The emblem of the Red Cross is not a marketing tool. It is a protective symbol meant to save lives during emergencies. We are seeing pharmacies, hospitals, private vehicles, and even vendors using it as a logo or decoration on goods. This misuse is dangerous because it diminishes the emblem’s credibility and puts real humanitarian responders at risk.”

    Dawobe called on authorities to take immediate action to curb the misuse.

    “The government should ensure offenders are called to order, issued warnings, or sanctioned. Protecting this symbol is crucial for the safety of those who serve in the frontlines of crises,” he said.

  • NDD condemns Plateau killings

    NDD condemns Plateau killings

    The Network for Democracy and Development (NDD) has raised the alarm over the recent surge in insecurity across the country, describing it as deeply troubling and a further strain on an already fragile nation.

    A jointly statement by its National Coordinator, Tajudeen Alabede, and General Secretary, Muhammad Jameel Muhammad, condemned the spate of violent attacks in parts of the country, including the suicide bombing in Borno State and the killing of innocent citizens in Benue and Plateau States.

    Read Also: Corporate Nigeria backbone of national development , says Faleke

    “The suicide bombing in Borno State as well as the killing of innocent citizens by criminal elements in Benue and Plateau States a few days ago, among others, constitute a further strain on the polity that is already beset by protracted challenges of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, sundry killings by the so-called unknown gunmen, communal crises, and widespread vandalism of economic infrastructure in different parts of the country”, the statement read.

    While acknowledging the recent gains made by security operatives in combating terrorism in the North East and tackling banditry in the North West, the NDD said the worsening security situation calls for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture.

    “The gravity of the current state of insecurity points to an urgent need for a genuine and thorough overhaul of the extant national strategy to make Nigeria safe again,” the group stated.

  • Police, Customs pledge stronger collaboration

    Police, Customs pledge stronger collaboration

    The Lagos State Commissioner of Police (CP) Moshood Jimoh, has reaffirmed the the force’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), especially in intelligence sharing and internal security operations.

    He gave this assurance during a visit by the Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, NCS, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, to the Command Headquarters in Ikeja yesterday.

    The CP described Customs Service as one of the most supportive agencies to the police and promised to strengthen existing relationship between both bodies.

    Read Also: James Omokwe: I hope Cheta M becomes a benchmark for authentic Nigerian narratives

    “We have been working closely with your predecessors, and there will be no missing link. What you have sought today, consider it granted,” he said.

    He stressed the need for continuous synergy among security agencies, especially in Lagos, which he described as a strategic state requiring coordinated efforts to ensure safety.

    Comptroller Shuaibu said his visit was aimed at consolidating the ongoing partnership between the agencies and fostering better cooperation in tackling crime.

    “We are here to synergise and collaborate in the interest of national security. The Nigeria Customs Service and the Police Force must continue to work hand in hand to secure the only country we call home,” he said.

  • Viral video: IG orders probe into police pensioners’ welfare concerns

    Viral video: IG orders probe into police pensioners’ welfare concerns

    The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an in-depth investigation into the issues raised in a viral video by a retired Superintendent of Police regarding the welfare and retirement benefits of police pensioners.

    Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, said the IGP directed the NPF Pensions Limited to urgently investigate the claims, identify any lapses, and take appropriate steps to address the concerns raised.

    “The Nigeria Police Force is not insensitive to the plight of its pensioners, many of whom dedicated their lives to the service and safety of our nation,” the statement read.

    The IGP emphasized that the welfare of both serving and retired personnel remains a top priority, noting that effective and timely pension administration is vital for maintaining morale and upholding the integrity of the institution.

    Read Also: Nigeria opens door to new economy as Tinubu signs landmark tax reform laws

    While acknowledging that efforts have been ongoing to improve the pension system, Egbetokun stated that constructive feedback, such as that shared in the viral video, is essential for driving needed reforms.

    “The IGP reassures all officers, both serving and retired, and their families of the Force’s unwavering commitment to improved welfare and to building a system that honors their sacrifices.”

    He also urged all stakeholders, particularly affected pensioners, to remain calm and patient as the NPF Pensions Limited works in collaboration with relevant agencies to investigate the matter and implement lasting solutions.

  • EFCC arrests 34 suspected internet fraudsters in Ibadan

    EFCC arrests 34 suspected internet fraudsters in Ibadan

    Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 34 suspected internet fraudsters.

    According to the Head, Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the alleged fraudsters were arrested in the early hours of Monday at Iworoko and Ijado areas of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti state following credible intelligence about their suspected fraudulent activities.

    Read Also: QEDNG unveils summit to shape Nigeria’s creative economy

    He said items recovered from the suspects include 11 exotic cars, laptops, several mobile phones, and incriminating documents among others.

    He added that the suspects will be charged to court when investigations are concluded.

  • Hijrah: MUSWEN, ADSN, MCLS urge unity among Nigerians

    Hijrah: MUSWEN, ADSN, MCLS urge unity among Nigerians

    As Muslims mark the beginning of Hijrah 1447 AH, prominent Islamic organisations—the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, and the Muslim Community of Lagos State (MCLS), have called on Nigerians to rededicate themselves to unity, peaceful coexistence, and the socio-economic advancement of the nation.

    In their separate New Year messages on Thursday, the groups urged citizens, regardless of religious affiliation, to work together in building a just, equitable, and inclusive society.

    MUSWEN, in a joint statement signed by its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and Executive Secretary, Prof. Muslih ‘Tayo Yahya, encouraged Nigerians to embrace mutual respect and justice while praying for global peace and prosperity.

    They also called on Muslims across the country and beyond to seek divine guidance and offer prayers for Nigeria’s peace, progress, and stability amid ongoing challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship, and global unrest.

    The groups emphasized the significance of Hijrah as a time for reflection, spiritual renewal, and renewed commitment to values that promote national growth and unity.

    “We urge leaders at all levels—religious, political, and traditional—to embody the spirit of compassion and justice in their actions. In these challenging times, leadership rooted in empathy and fairness is essential for fostering peace, progress, and unity in our society,” MUSWEN said.

    Read Also: Muslims urge Lagos Govt to declare Hijrah Holiday

    MCLS President, Alhaji Muhammed Danmole, advised Muslims to “purify our intentions, strengthen our bonds of brotherhood, uphold peace, and contribute positively to our communities. We also pray for continued guidance, protection, and mercy from Allah upon our state, our leaders, our families, and the entire Ummah.

    “The Hijrah reminds us of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering faith of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions as they migrated for the sake of preserving their religion. It is a time for reflection, renewal of faith, and a recommitment to living by the principles of Islam: justice, compassion, truthfulness, and unity.”

    ADSN National President, Prince Mosediq Kazeem, SAN, said: “Today, as we ponder and reflect on the significance of Hijrah, we cannot ignore the numerous trials facing our nation and our world – rising insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, hunger, and the pervasive sense of uncertainty, particularly among our youths.

    “Let this new Islamic year be a moment of renewed intention – to strengthen our connection with Allah, to serve our communities, and to uphold the noble values of Islam: justice, mercy, brotherhood, and sincere reliance on Allah.

    “We call upon our leaders to prioritise justice, good governance, and equitable policies that alleviate poverty, create employment opportunities, and promote lasting peace.”

    The organization hailed the Federal Government’s initiative to transform Federal Science Colleges into Vocational Technical Institutions with free tuition- a meaningful step towards empowering our youth and addressing unemployment.

  • FG begins review of anti-torture law to address existing gaps

    FG begins review of anti-torture law to address existing gaps

    …NHRC assures of commitment to ending torture, related crimes

    The Federal Government has commended the review of the Anti-Torture Act 2017 to address identified inherent defects to ensure effectiveness in efforts to end immunity and related crimes.

    The Solicitor General of the Federation (SG-F) and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba disclosed this in Abuja on Thursday.

    Mrs. Jedy-Agba, who expressed concern about the impact on citizens in confinement, said her ministry was working on other measures to end the practice of torture in the country.

    Represented by Mrs. Gladys Adegbaro, an official of the ministry, Mrs. Jedy-Agba spoke at an event to mark the 2025 International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, with the theme: “Justice and Dignity for All: Combating Torture Through Accountability and Reform.”

    The event, organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice (FMJ), brought together key stakeholders, drawn from security agencies, civil society and development partners. 

    Mrs. Jedy-Agba added that her ministry, through the Committee Against Torture in Nigeria (CAT-N), has concluded work on the Implementing Regulations for the Anti-Torture Act, 2017 an essential legal instrument designed to close operational gaps and bolster enforcement mechanisms. 

    She explained that the regulations outline procedures for prosecuting offenders, ensuring access to medical examination, and providing rehabilitation for survivors. 

    Mrs. Jedy-Agba said the document is currently undergoing gazetting to give it legal effect.

    She added: “The crime of torture is one that affects us all as a society, and requires collaborative efforts to, not only disabuse public officials from its use, but to discourage the practice, which appears to have become an abhorrent culture in our places of detention. 

    “Every human deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. The use of torture is a criminal offence and prohibited in all circumstances. 

    Read Also: New tax laws take effect from January 1, 2026 — Adedeji

    “All stakeholders, both in the public and private sectors must speak with one voice against the perpetrators of torture, and for all who suffer at their hands, in order to build a better, more humane society for all people everywhere,” Mrs. Jedy-Agba said.

    The Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu (SAN) assured of his agency’s commitment to championing the anti-torture campaign.

    Represented by Dr. Ben Agu, Ojukwu said preventing torture was not only about enacting laws, it is a moral imperative. 

    He added: “It requires consistent political will, strengthened oversight mechanisms, proper training of security and Law Enforcement Agencies, and the empowerment of victims fhrough legal, social, humanitarian and medical services. 

    “At the National Human Rights Commission, we remain committed to our mandate to promote, protect, and enforce the human rights of everyone, including all who have suffered grievous human rights violations/abuses with regards to torture. 

    “The NHRC continues to monitor and document cases of torture, provide avenues for victims to seek justice, and engage in advocacy and capacity-building initiatives to sensitize stakeholders and the public that there are no excuses for torture,” Ojukwu said.

  • Lagos holds workshop on converting diesel vehicles to CNG

    Lagos holds workshop on converting diesel vehicles to CNG

    In a significant step towards achieving cleaner transportation and reducing reliance on diesel, Lagos on Wednesday hosted a national workshop under the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi), focusing on retrofitting diesel-powered vehicles to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

    Held at Landmark Towers, the 2025 Fuel with CNG Diesel Retrofit Program Workshop brought together top government officials, leaders in the automotive industry, environmental experts, fleet operators, and green technology innovators.

    Coordinator of the P-CNGi Initiative, Engineer Michael Oluwagbemi, said the workshop demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to decarbonizing Nigeria’s transport sector while boosting job creation and improving public health.

    Read Also: How PCNGI is boosting supply to meet demand for CNG

    “We are not just retrofitting engines—we are reimagining Nigeria’s energy future,” Oluwagbemi said in his keynote address. “Our goal is to cut emissions, reduce urban air pollution, and build a resilient green economy through sustainable mobility solutions.”

    The event featured practical training sessions for auto technicians, as well as panel discussions on key issues such as regulatory frameworks, infrastructure needs, and financing models for CNG conversions.

    Participants lauded the workshop’s hands-on approach and its alignment with Nigeria’s broader climate goals. 

    Many described it as a timely intervention that could transform the country’s road transport landscape and reduce the economic strain caused by diesel dependency.

    The Lagos workshop forms part of a series of nationwide engagements by P-CNGi to fast-track the adoption of CNG as a safer, cleaner, and more affordable energy alternative across Nigeria.

  • Police, Customs pledge stronger intelligence sharing, security collaboration

    Police, Customs pledge stronger intelligence sharing, security collaboration

    The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening its collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), particularly in the areas of intelligence sharing and internal security operations.

    Jimoh made the pledge on Thursday while receiving the Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, NCS, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, during a courtesy visit to the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.

    Welcoming the delegation, the CP described the Customs Service as a vital partner to the Police and assured that the long-standing synergy between both agencies would be maintained and enhanced.

    “We have been working closely with your predecessors, and there will be no missing link. What you have sought today, consider it granted,” Jimoh said.

    Read Also: Police probe armed escort for actress Angela Okorie

    He emphasized the importance of sustained inter-agency cooperation, especially in Lagos, which he described as a critical hub requiring coordinated efforts to ensure public safety.

    In his remarks, Comptroller Shuaibu noted that the visit was aimed at reinforcing the partnership between the two agencies and boosting joint efforts in combating crime and securing lives and property.

    “We are here to synergise and collaborate in the interest of national security. The Nigeria Customs Service and the Police Force must continue to work hand in hand to secure the only country we call home,” he said.

    Shuaibu also noted that the Customs Police Unit was established to monitor officers’ conduct and handle internal investigations, adding that erring personnel are sanctioned accordingly.

    He appealed for continued intelligence support from the Police, especially in matters beyond Customs’ operational scope, and expressed readiness for collaboration beyond formal engagements.

    “This partnership is not just about our agencies; it’s about the safety, unity, and progress of Nigeria,” he added.

  • Omotosho named LYMP President

    Omotosho named LYMP President

    The Leadership Institute for Youth and Early-Child Management Professionals (L.Y.M.P) has appointed Amb. Dr. Bolarinwa Omotosho, CLMP, CYMP, FICSP, FIMC, as jts new President from June 23rd, 2025. 

    The Institute’s Secretary General, Surveyor. Oladapo Obanegha, CLMP, confirmed this. 

    The Leadership Institute for Youth and Early Childhood Management Professionals (L.Y.M.P) is a professional organisation dedicated to promoting excellence and professionalism in early-childhood and youth work, and research development in caregiving. 

    Part of our key focus and interventions are

    Resource development for early childhood and youth work professionalism,; addressing best practices in early childhood and youth caregiving professionalism; addressing brain drain in early childhood and youth work professionalism; creating opportunities for career advancement in early childhood education, youth work and research development.

    Omotosho is to lead the council team and bring over three decades of experience in youth work, humanitarian expertise, social work, and leadership development to youth work.

    “We are convinced that Dr. Omotosho will perform beyond our expectations,” Oladapo Obanegha, Secretary General of L.Y.M.P said . 

    “His experience, qualifications, and character make him the perfect candidate to lead our institute. We have confidence that he will work tirelessly to achieve our objectives, making L.Y.M.P a household name in Nigeria and adding value to the youth work and early-child management professionalism of our members.”

    As the President of L.Y.M.P, Omotosho will focus on linking the institute and its members to national and global networks, promoting professionalism, and advancing the cause of youth and early-child development in Nigeria. 

    Membership in L.Y.M.P is open to youth workers, early childhood workers, school owners, school administrators, counsellors, and all caregivers.

    Omotosho is a multi potentiality, experienced conference speaker, educationist, theologian, medical social worker specialising in Mental Health and Gender-Based issues, certified veteran youth therapist, and marriage counsellor. He is a certified management consultant, certified project manager, chartered manager, certified Leadership Coach, certified Peace and Conflict educator, and appointed Eminent Peace Ambassador by three different international organizations in the U.S.A. and Australia. 

    He is a youth work expert to the core. He is a multi-vocational educationist and marketing expert with a strong background in sales and advertising, which earned him a fellowship with the Institute of Certified Sales Professionals (ICSP). 

    Read Also: Omotosho bags meritorious leadership award, launches girl-child education initiative

    A full member of the Chartered Institute of Public Management of Nigeria, he is also a registered practitioner in Advertising, a certified and licensed Management Consultant, and a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants. Additionally, he is a member of various professional organizations, both locally and internationally. He is a prolific writer with over 40 books and resource materials on leadership and youth culture.

    He is the President of Anchor International Outreach Ministry and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Anchor Humanitarian Care & Social Medical Initiative. He has received numerous awards and recognition for his humanitarian work, including being named a World Citizen Peace Ambassador by three international bodies between 2021 and 2023.

    As a medical social worker, Omotosho is committed to advocating for good mental health and well-being, particularly among young people. He is also an expert in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and has worked tirelessly to promote gender equity.

    He is an alumnus of the prestigious St. Thomas Aquinas College, Lagos State Polytechnic, Lagos State University, West Africa Theological Seminary (an affiliation of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka), and International Institute of Church Growth (an affiliation of Kingsway Christian College and Theological Seminary, Iowa USA).