The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Tinubu is a blessing to Akure kingdom, says Deji of Akure

    Tinubu is a blessing to Akure kingdom, says Deji of Akure

    …As FUTA Teaching Hospital outlines progress work 

    The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of a Teaching Hospital and a College of Aviation in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

    The Akure traditional ruler gave the commendation when the management of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) Teaching Hospital, led by its Chief Medical Director, Prof. Olusegun Ojo paid him a courtesy visit at the palace in Akure on Monday.

    Oba Aladelusi said the Tinubu administration had brought immense benefits to Akure, noting that residents of the town had clamoured for a federal teaching hospital since the creation of Ondo State in 1976.

    According to him, what other state capitals took for granted had remained elusive to Akure until the emergence of President Tinubu.

    “With the establishment of the FUTA Teaching Hospital, the people of Akure and Ondo State will no longer need to travel to Osun, Oyo, and Lagos states for medical attention,” the monarch said.

    He also listed the College of Aviation and the appointment of a substantive minister from Akure as part of the gains recorded under the present administration, recalling that the last time the town produced a minister was when Chief Olu Falae served as Minister of Finance and Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

    Oba Aladelusi said access to quality healthcare was a major reason people in developed countries lived longer, stressing that the new teaching hospital would significantly improve healthcare delivery in the state.

    He applauded President Tinubu and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for ceding the Specialist Hospital in Akure to the Federal Government for the establishment of the teaching hospital.

    “President Tinubu loves Akure very much. He promised us a teaching hospital, and he has fulfilled his promise. He also gave us a substantive minister and the College of Aviation. We will always support him,” the monarch said.

    He, however, charged the management of the hospital to work towards reducing the death rate and making the institution one of the best in the country and globally, pledging to encourage Akure indigenes to donate buildings and facilities to support the hospital

    Earlier, Prof. Ojo said the management of the FUTA Teaching Hospital held the Deji of Akure and the traditional institution in high esteem, describing the host community as critical to the success of the hospital.

    He explained that the visit was to formally present the newly constituted management team to the palace and seek the royal father’s goodwill and support.

    Ojo said no meaningful institution could thrive within a community without the cooperation and support of its traditional ruler and chiefs, adding that the visit was deliberate and symbolic.

    According to him, the palace and the people of Akure had stood by the hospital at every critical stage of its development, describing the support as a show of love, ownership and partnership that would remain indelible in the institution’s history.

    He noted that although the FUTA Teaching Hospital was a federal institution, it remained a pride of Akure Kingdom.

    “Kabiyesi, FUTA Teaching Hospital is not only a federal institution; it is a pride of Akure Kingdom. It is our responsibility to ensure quality healthcare delivery, contribute to medical education, advance research, create jobs, and positively impact the wellbeing of our host community,” he said.

    He added that the new management team was committed to consolidating existing achievements, upholding professionalism, integrity and excellence, and fostering a harmonious relationship with the host community.

  • Police nab 14 notorious Sara-Suka thugs, recover knives, machetes in Bauchi

    Police nab 14 notorious Sara-Suka thugs, recover knives, machetes in Bauchi

    Operatives of the Bauchi State Police Command have apprehended 14 suspected dangerous Sara-Suka thugs in a rapid operation across Bakaro, Kofar Dumi, Tudun Yarima, and Kofar Madaki areas, retrieving machetes and sharp knives.

    Spokesman of the Command, SP Nafiu Habib, disclosed in a crime bulletin issued Monday.

    According to him, the suspects, armed with machetes and knives, have been terrorizing residents, snatching phones and cash, and causing injuries.

    “On 15th January 2026 at about 1630hrs, a patrol team acted promptly following reports on the activities of thug members (‘Yan Sara-Suka) around Bakaro, Kofar Dumi, Tudun Yarima, and Kofar Madaki areas,” he said.

    He added that the arrested suspects, aged 18 to 22, admitted to the crimes during interrogation.

    Read Also: Ogun police file six-count charge against blogger Adetoun over alleged cybercrimes

    The Spokesman stated that the police team, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of ‘A’ Division Bauchi, CSP Hassan A. Musa, arrested the suspects, including Abbati, 20 years, Mamman 21yrs, Adamu 22yrs, Khalid, 20 years, Abubakar 19yrs, Mahmood 22yrs, Jabir 21yrs, and Haruna 18yrs.

    The others are Khalid 18yrs, Abubakar 19yrs, Kabiru 20yrs, Anas 20yrs, Mr. Mohammed 19yrs, and Abdulkarim 22yrs.

    SP Habib also relayed a message from the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, commending public cooperation and urging continued vigilance.

  • Ondo Police raise alarm over judicial strike, warn of rising security risks

    Ondo Police raise alarm over judicial strike, warn of rising security risks

    The Ondo State Police Command has expressed concern over the prolonged judicial strike in the state, warning that the situation is impeding the prosecution of criminal cases and creating potential security threats.

    Addressing journalists in Akure, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, said the indefinite strike has compelled the police to release suspects who ordinarily should have been arraigned.

    Lawal noted that the shutdown of courts across the state for several weeks has severely hindered the administration of criminal justice.

    Courts in Ondo have remained closed following the strike by magistrates, presidents of Grade ‘A’ customary courts, and members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN).

    The striking judicial officers accuse the state government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, of failing to implement financial autonomy for the judiciary and of neglecting long-standing welfare concerns.

    In a statement, JUSUN also accused Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration of deliberately starving the judiciary of funds, plunging the state into what it described as a “constitutional crisis.”

    The union alleged that persistent delays in fund releases, reversals of approvals, and administrative bottlenecks had made it impossible for courts to function effectively.

    But speaking further, CP Lawal said the absence of sitting courts has compelled the police to grant bail to suspects in cases that should ordinarily be charged to court.

    “The strike by judicial workers in Ondo State is really affecting us. In cases which should ordinarily be charged to court, we are compelled to grant bail. And the risk is that if any of them jumps bail, it becomes the Nigeria Police’s problem,” he said.

    The police boss explained that although bail is granted based on set conditions, the situation exposes the command to avoidable risks.

    “When the conditions are met, and lawyers insist on bail, we are compelled to grant it. Whoever stands as surety will bear the consequences if the suspect jumps bail.

    “But on a serious note, the strike is affecting us because cases which ought to have been charged to court are stalled,” Lawal added.

    He expressed optimism that the strike would soon be resolved, noting that the Attorney-General of the state had met with the striking workers earlier in the week.

    “I know the Attorney-General met with them on Tuesday or thereabouts, and I want to believe that by next week they should resume sitting. We are looking forward to that,” he said.

    Meanwhile, JUSUN accused the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, SAN, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs Omowumi Isaac, of undermining the independence of the judiciary.

    “The Sunshine State is presently in constitutional free-fall. The light of the law has been extinguished. By starving the judiciary of its constitutionally mandated financial autonomy, the state government has effectively declared war on its own citizens,” the statement said.

    The judicial workers warned that the prolonged shutdown of courts was already having grave human and economic consequences, including overcrowding in police cells and correctional facilities, denial of access to justice, and lack of legal protection for victims of sexual and domestic violence.

    They also lamented economic paralysis arising from halted contractual enforcement, frozen land transactions, and suspended probate matters, warning that the situation was discouraging investment and threatening social stability.

    “A state without a functional court is not a democracy; it is a lawless land where might makes right,” the statement added.

    The union insisted that the Aiyedatiwa administration must immediately implement full financial autonomy for the judiciary, stressing that the courts are not a political bargaining chip but essential to the survival of the state.

  • Digital governance, AI central to legislative reporting — Reps Spokesman

    Digital governance, AI central to legislative reporting — Reps Spokesman

    Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akintunde Rotimi, has said issues of digital governance, data protection, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital rights are now central to democracy, accountability, and the protection of fundamental freedoms in Nigeria.

    The House Spokesman stated this on Monday while delivering the opening address at a one-day capacity building retreat for the House Press Corps and parliamentary media teams at the National Assembly Library, Abuja.

    Rotimi said the legislative environment now operates within complex digital questions that directly affect democratic institutions, economic development, and public trust, stressing that the responsibility of interpreting such issues accurately rests on legislative reporters and parliamentary media professionals.

    According to him, the work of the Press Corps and media teams directly shapes public understanding of Parliament, public confidence in democratic institutions, and the quality of civic engagement in the country.

    He noted that the retreat, organised by the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs with the support of Paradigm Initiative, reflects a deliberate commitment to professionalism, ethics, competence, and institutional coherence in legislative communication.

    “Our vision is to position the Tenth Assembly as The People’s House — a Parliament that is trusted, responsive and results-driven,” Rotimi said, adding that the mission of the committee is to deliver timely, factual and innovative public communication that strengthens institutional credibility.

    The House spokesman said the committee’s work is anchored on the values of transparency, engagement, and accessibility, explaining that transparency demands accuracy and clarity in reporting, engagement requires collaboration between journalists and parliamentary communicators, while accessibility ensures that legislative processes are understandable to citizens.

    Rotimi further said that as the volume of digital-related legislation before the National Assembly increases, the responsibility to report such matters with insight, balance, and technical understanding also grows.

    He explained that the retreat was designed as a professional engagement, featuring sessions on digital rights, the state of digital freedoms in Nigeria, legislative interpretation, and practical simulations.

    He thanked Paradigm Initiative for supporting the retreat and urged participants to engage actively and take full advantage of the training to improve the quality of legislative reporting.

    The Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Mr. Gboyega Onadiran, said information now travels faster than legislation, with public perception often moving quicker than policy in today’s digital age.

    Read Also: AI generated fake news, misinformation impacting society negatively, says Reps spokesman

    He said journalism and legislative communication no longer operate only through headlines and press statements but within a digital ecosystem shaped by data, algorithms, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and online rights.

    According to him, how these digital issues are understood and explained to the Nigerian public has become increasingly important, as they now influence public trust and democratic engagement.

    Onadiran said the responsibility of the Press Corps goes beyond reporting proceedings of the House, stressing that journalists covering the National Assembly must make parliamentary work understandable, credible, and relevant to citizens.

    “This is a duty we have continued to perform patriotically and ethically, and it can only get better,” he said.

    He described the retreat as timely and necessary, noting that it provides an opportunity to build capacity, strengthen collaboration, and align professional standards as digital governance increasingly shapes Nigeria’s legislative future.

    The Press Corps chairman commended the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs and House Spokesman, Rep. Akintunde Rotimi, and members of the committee for initiating the retreat and sustaining regular capacity-building engagements.

    He also appreciated Paradigm Initiative Nigeria for its collaboration and support for the programme.

    Onadiran urged participants to engage actively, learn from the sessions, and leave the retreat better equipped to report and communicate legislative issues around digital governance with clarity and responsibility.

  • ‘Why many female artists lose stardom after marriage’

    ‘Why many female artists lose stardom after marriage’

    Chief Executive Officer, Mother of Models International, Jolly Abani, has said many female artists lose relevance after marriage because societal expectations, spousal restrictions, and cultural stereotypes often force them to abandon their careers and personal ambitions.

    Abani, who doubles as the founder of 40andFabulousNaija, stated this at a press briefing in Abuja at the weekend while announcing the grand finale of the Reality TV Show, Season Three, where she addressed concerns about why several women who once dominated the entertainment industry quietly disappear from the spotlight after tying the knot.

    According to her, many women rush into marriage due to age-related pressure, family expectations, and societal stigma, often without considering the long-term impact on their careers.

    She explained that some female artists marry men who insist they abandon their careers in favour of domestic roles.

    Abani said, “Once a woman clocks 30 or 35, the pressure begins. Everyone starts asking when she will get married. In that rush, some women jump into marriages that do not support their purpose or career.

    “Some husbands will say, ‘I don’t want you to do anything, I want a housewife.’ And because of love, money, or pressure, the woman agrees and sits back. But when the money disappears, problems start, and separation follows.”

    Abani also cited religion, cultural norms, and negative stereotypes about female musicians as factors contributing to the decline of women’s careers after marriage.

    “Some men believe musicians are irresponsible or always on the streets, so they forbid their wives from performing. Others blame religion or society. These things silence women and push them out of the spotlight,” she added.

    She stressed that the core challenge is the failure of many women to rediscover themselves beyond marital and societal labels.

    “We tell them to remove the titles -wife, ex-wife, celebrity, qualification, and find themselves. When you know what you are called to do, even when it is painful, you will never give up,” Abani said.

    Using Season Three of 40andFabulousNaija as an example, she revealed that one of the housemates was a successful musician in the past who shared stages with international stars before her career stalled after marriage.

    Read Also: Tiwa Savage denies sabotaging fellow female artists

    “She was a star. Life happened. Marriage happened. And she faded out. This platform is announcing her comeback, and she is coming back strong,” Abani added.

    Abani dismissed claims that reality shows distract Nigerians from pressing national challenges, insisting that 40andFabulousNaija is fundamentally different from conventional entertainment programmes.

    She explained that the show includes entrepreneurship training, vision-board sessions, emotional healing through what is called the Healing Room, and deep personal storytelling where participants share real-life experiences.

    According to her, the initiative is designed to help women aged 40 and above rebuild confidence, acquire sustainable skills, and remain economically productive.

    She announced that filming for Season Three has been concluded and the programme will air for two months, as well as on YouTube for the first time to reach diaspora audiences.

    The Season Three Grand Finale, she said, will hold on March 21 in Abuja.

    Described as Africa’s first NGO-driven reality TV show, 40andFabulousNaija targets women aged 40 and above, offering training in entrepreneurship, health, counselling, and personal development, with the message that age is not a barrier to purpose or relevance.

  • PENGASSAN pays tribute to late president 20 years after Sosoliso tragedy

    PENGASSAN pays tribute to late president 20 years after Sosoliso tragedy

    The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the weekend paid tribute to its former president, Uche Okoro, 20, after the Sosoliso plane crash claimed his life.

    The remembrance, tagged “A Day of Tribute in Honour of Late Comrade U.M. Okoro,” held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, and brought together union leaders, former presidents, regulators, and stakeholders to honour Okoro’s remarkable contributions to the welfare of oil and gas workers and the broader Nigerian labour movement.

    On December 10, 2005, a Sosoliso Airlines plane flying from Abuja to Port Harcourt in Rivers State, crashed at Port Harcourt International Airport.

    The aircraft, with over 110 passengers on board, burst into flames after hitting the ground. Seven passengers who survived the accident were taken to hospitals, but only two people eventually survived.

    Speaking at the event, PENGASSAN President, Festus Osifo, described the gathering as both a celebration and a reaffirmation of the union’s enduring values.

    Comrade Osifo said the late Okoro had served as president of both PENGASSAN and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).

    Osifo said, “We are gathered to remember his immense contributions to the labour movement, his dedication, and the sacrifices he made to advance workers’ welfare in the oil and gas industry and Nigeria at large.

    Read Also: Sosoliso plane crash survivor Kechi Okwuchi marks 20 years with tribute

    “Remembering him after 20 years is our way of saying ‘thank you,’ and reassuring his family that PENGASSAN stands by its leaders, not only when they are alive, but even after they are gone.”

    Osifo said that PENGASSAN’s achievements in the oil and gas sector are products of firm and principled leadership, not government benevolence or employer generosity.

    He stated, “What workers enjoy today is because PENGASSAN has remained firm, principled, and courageous over the years. Leadership is transient; what matters is service, lifting people from poverty, ensuring quality healthcare, functional education, food security, and basic infrastructure.”

    He also highlighted the union’s ongoing advocacy for Collective Bargaining Agreements, stressing that these arrangements have been central to securing fair compensation for oil and gas workers.

    “Minimum wage is only the floor, not the destination. Every sector must negotiate conditions of service that reflect the skill and experience of its workforce. We are ready to export our expertise through the Trade Union Congress to other unions,” Osifo added.

    A former PENGASSAN President, Peter Esele, spoke about his personal connection to the union and the enduring impact of selfless leadership.

    “PENGASSAN does not owe me anything; for the rest of my life, I owe PENGASSAN. This gathering is not about mourning; it is about celebrating the sacrifices of our past leaders and reminding all Nigerian leaders that service, simplicity, and love define true leadership.

    “Without a legacy, nobody remembers you. When you serve well, you leave behind a legacy that people will always remember and refer to,” Esele said.

    He urged political and corporate leaders alike to focus on service to citizens and workers, stressing that wealth or power alone does not secure a lasting memory.

    “Leadership is about service. When you truly serve, you find fulfilment. Your family, your community, and the nation remember you,” he said.

  • Oborevwori flags off N59.7bn Agbor/Uromi Junction flyover, assures Deltans of even devt

    Oborevwori flags off N59.7bn Agbor/Uromi Junction flyover, assures Deltans of even devt

    … Okowa, Ebie, Dein of Agbor, others applaud governor’s giant strides

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Monday flagged off the construction of the N59.7 billion Agbor/Uromi Junction flyover in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of the state.

    Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Oborevwori described the project as a critical intervention aimed at enhancing road safety, preserving lives, and stimulating economic activities within Delta State and beyond.

    The governor said the flyover was conceived in response to persistent traffic congestion and frequent road accidents at the Agbor/Uromi Junction, a major federal highway intersection that has, over the years, recorded loss of lives and destruction of property.

    According to him, the dangerous interaction among vehicles, motorcycles, and pedestrians at the junction, compounded by poor traffic management, made a permanent engineering solution inevitable.

    Oborevwori disclosed that the contract for the design and construction of the flyover had been awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, with a completion timeline of 14 months.

    He assured residents that the project aligned with his administration’s commitment to even development across all parts of the state and the provision of safer, modern road infrastructure.

    He further urged the contractor to adhere strictly to quality standards and project timelines, while calling on residents and motorists to cooperate during the construction period to ensure smooth execution.

    The project, he explained, includes a 1.3-kilometre flyover bridge along the Uromi–Agbor Highway, dual carriageways with two lanes in each direction, ramps, roundabouts, concrete drainage systems, kerbs, and solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety and sustainability.

    Oborevwori, who was accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, and other top government functionaries for the groundbreaking ceremony, stressed the strategic importance of the corridor, describing it as a major economic and transportation link connecting the Eastern and Western parts of the Niger Delta, while also serving as a gateway to the North.

    “Anyone travelling from Lagos to the East or from the East to the West must pass through this route. Its importance to the national economy cannot be overstated,” he said.

    He noted that upon completion, the flyover would significantly enhance mobility, reduce travel time, expand economic opportunities, and safeguard the lives of thousands of Nigerians who ply the route daily.

    The governor also highlighted the employment opportunities the project would generate for engineers, artisans, labourers, transporters, food vendors, and others across the construction value chain.

    Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive and balanced development, Oborevwori said the state government had injected N100 billion as a special intervention fund, allocating N4 billion each to the 25 local government areas for infrastructure development, in addition to other sectoral investments.

    He added that Ika South LGA was also benefiting from other major projects, including the N15.4 billion contract awarded for 13.3 kilometres of concrete drainage systems and five kilometres of road construction to address flooding and erosion, as well as the planned N12 billion 15-kilometre Okpe–Abavo–Ekuku-Agbor Road.

    “As a government, we award contracts strictly on merit and competence. Excellence will always attract further patronage,” the governor assured, expressing confidence that the flyover would be completed on schedule.

    Read Also: Oborevwori flags off construction of N59.7bn Agbor flyover project Monday

    Earlier, the immediate past Governor of the state, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, described the Agbor/ Uromi Junction Flyover as a monumental and impactful project, commending Oborevwori for sustaining continuity and translating plans into tangible development.

    He said the scale and spread of infrastructure projects across the state under the current administration reflected purposeful and people-oriented governance.

    Okowa also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the ongoing economic reforms, though initially challenging, were deliberately steering Nigeria toward a more sustainable future.

    The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, described Oborevwori as an audacious and workaholic leader, reminding the Ika Nation of the many infrastructure projects executed by the administration in the area and urged continued support for the governor in the years ahead.

    Mr Frederich Weiser, who spoke on behalf of the management and Board of Directors of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government for the confidence reposed in it through the award of the project.

    The firm pledged to deliver the flyover to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency, and to complete it on schedule with minimal disruption, drawing on its experience with similar projects across the state, including the Ughelli Flyover.

    In his remarks, Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie, assured of the commission’s readiness to collaborate with the Delta State Government to complete the Abraka–Obiaruku–Abavo–Agbor Road, describing it as a vital feeder route to the new flyover.

    The Chairman of Ika South LGA, Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior described the flyover as a “project of destiny,” and thanked Oborevwori for what he called action-driven leadership, including the restoration of electricity to communities that had been without power for over 14 years.

    Other speakers, including the member representing Ika Federal Constituency, Hon. Victor Nwokolo; APC National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Felix Morka; the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, HRM Benjamin Ikenchukwu, Keagborekuzi I, and President-General of Agbor Community Union, Prof. Onyemaechi Ugboh, commended Oborevwori for his massive infrastructure drive and assured him of their unwavering support.

  • FG faults NEF over Lagos gold refinery ownership

    FG faults NEF over Lagos gold refinery ownership

    …says allegation, a deliberate mischief

    The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has dismissed as deliberate misinformation the allegation by the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) that the federal government established a gold refinery in Lagos.

    The NEF, in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, accused the government of siting a gold refinery in Lagos in breach of the federal character principle.

    In its response, the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Segun Tomori, clarified that the refinery in question is entirely a private-sector initiative, with no financial contribution or ownership from the federal government.

    “There is no iota of truth in the allegation. The new gold refinery is the initiative of Kian Smith, a fully private mining company committed to advancing Nigeria’s gold industry through innovative practices,” the statement read.

    Tomori added that the Minister, Dr. Dele Alake, never claimed or implied that the refinery belonged to the federal government, describing the NEF’s assertion as unfounded.

    “The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, was very clear, concise, and emphatic in the announcement of the proposed commissioning of the refinery that other gold refineries are in the works across the country – and all privately owned by different companies.

    “We are shocked at the debilitating degeneration in the quality of leadership of the NEF – an organisation that used to act as a think-tank of serious discourse decades ago, which, by its recent utterances, has become a parody of its pioneers.

    “How could the NEF expect the federal government to force a private company to locate its operations in a particular area of the federation when each company has its own operational and marketing strategy to ensure its profitability?

    “The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, through its policy reforms, has been creating the enabling environment for the private sector to thrive and flourish in the mining sector in the last two years, and the Lagos gold refinery and others are eloquent testimonies to the efficacy of the solid minerals sector reforms.

    Read Also: Dangote, Honeywell International seal deal on 1.4mbpd refinery upgrade

    “How could the NEF fail to conduct basic due diligence and research before displaying such embarrassing ignorance while purporting to act on behalf of the North, a region that boasts of accomplished academics and professionals?

    “This negligence could only have been the result of deliberate mischief, orchestration of mistrust, and acceleration of irresponsible militancy.”

    The Ministry then assured stakeholders and prospective investors in the sector of its readiness to continue to encourage more mining companies to set up processing and manufacturing plants across the country.

    It urged NEF to turn a new leaf and join the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to build a stronger, self-reliant economy that meets the needs of the Nigerian people.

    The statement then congratulated the founder and Managing Director of the refinery, Nere Emiko, for her doggedness in delivering a dream project after years of perseverance, enterprise, and leadership

    The refinery captures the response of the solid minerals sector to the policy of Value Addition enunciated by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, two years ago, which discourages the export of raw minerals and localizes the processing and manufacturing of minerals.

    This policy, the statement added, has stimulated the conversion of raw minerals export to processing factories across the country, generating a massive inflow of foreign capital and providing thousands of jobs to Nigerians.

    These include the $600 million lithium plant in Nasarawa state, the $400 million rare earth plant also in Nasarawa State, and the $200 million ASBA lithium plant in Abuja.

  • JUST IN: Sleepy driver rams into another vehicle on Third Mainland Bridge

    JUST IN: Sleepy driver rams into another vehicle on Third Mainland Bridge

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and officers of the Nigeria Police Force have evacuated two vehicles involved in a collision at the Third Mainland Bridge at Adeniji Intersection area of Lagos State.

    The Nation learnt that a yet-to-be-identified driver of a Lexus jeep had fallen asleep while driving, leading to loss of control and eventual collision with another vehicle early Monday, January 19.

    The Lexus Jeep had a number plate RBC-516EA, colliding with the other vehicle with number plate LND-327EH, and the Toyota RAV4 – BDG400FA.

    A video of the incident, sighted by our correspondent, showed emergency responders making efforts to control vehicular movements and also to remove the affected vehicles from the highway.

    Read Also: Police deploy patrols, gadgets to secure Third Mainland Bridge

    LASTMA on its verified X page formerly Twitter said, “A driver of a Lexus jeep was fast asleep while driving and ran into another vehicle on the Third mainland bridge at Adeniji Intersection.

    “Cones have been well placed behind for security measures, with ongoing efforts to evacuate both vehicles from the location. This is currently affecting traffic movement from Adekunle inward the Island.”

  • Road maintenance and national security coordination initiative

    Road maintenance and national security coordination initiative

    • By Samuel Charles-Odiase

    An Open Letter to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Your Excellency,

    With deep respect and unwavering patriotism, I write to draw your attention to a matter of urgent national importance—the state of our road transport system and its direct impact on national security, economic growth, and public safety.

    Nigeria’s population continues to expand, and entrepreneurship is rising at an unprecedented pace. Every day, goods worth billions of naira are transported across states, and millions of citizens migrate from one location to another in pursuit of livelihood, education, and business opportunities. This growing movement places heavy pressure on our road networks and security architecture.

    Recently, I observed the importation of hundreds of heavy-duty trucks by a single business entity, in addition to the many others cleared from our seaports daily. This increasing number of heavy-duty vehicles, while economically beneficial, significantly contributes to road congestion, road damage, and increased security risks.

    Read Also: Tinubu has ended Southeast’s roads nightmare, says Umahi

    Your Excellency, I humbly propose the introduction of a regulated movement schedule for heavy-duty trucks, assigning a specific time window—from 4:00 p.m. daily—for their interstate movement. This measure, already practised in several developed nations, would produce multiple benefits:

    1. Reduced road congestion:

    Lighter traffic during the day will ease movement for small vehicles, commuters, and transport services.

    2. Enhanced security monitoring:

    Security personnel will be better positioned to focus on screening smaller vehicles and travellers during peak hours, ensuring safer highways.

    3. Improved inspection of heavy-duty trucks:

    With trucks moving within a regulated time frame, security agencies can conduct more coordinated and effective checks for: Unlawful goods, illegal migration, human trafficking, and contraband items

    4. Reduction in road accidents:

    Segregating heavy-duty trucks from daytime traffic will help minimize fatal accidents involving commercial buses and private commuters.

    5. Enhance joint force:

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), with the support of the Police, can conduct routine daytime and night-time checkpoints to ensure that all vehicles on our roads are roadworthy and that their drivers are properly licensed.

    6. Strengthened National Security:

    The regulated movement window will help security personnel effectively monitor the large number of people and goods transported across states, ensuring that non-citizens or individuals with harmful intent are not exploiting our transportation system.

    Your Excellency, this single policy, if implemented, holds the potential to save lives, protect our roads, enhance national security, and boost economic productivity. It is a proactive step that aligns with your administration’s commitment to safety, infrastructure development, and national stability.

    I trust in your wisdom, leadership, and dedication to a safer, more prosperous Nigeria. May this humble recommendation contribute meaningfully to your vision for a stronger nation.

    With highest regards,

    Samuel Ehizojie Charles-Odiase

    Samuel Ehizojie Charles-Odiase is a member of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria and the Chief Executive Officer of Easyrite International. He is committed to driving value, accountability, and excellence in every professional engagement.