France will ban smoking in outdoor areas where children are likely to be present, starting July 1, 2025. This includes beaches, parks, bus stops, school entrances, and sports venues.
Health and Family Minister, Catherine Vautrin, made this known on Thursday, May 29.
“Tobacco must disappear where there are children.
“The freedom to smoke stops where children’s right to breathe clean air starts,” Vautrin told Ouest-France newspaper.
The rule will also stop students from smoking in front of schools. Anyone who breaks the rule may be fined up to €135 ($154).
However, the ban does not apply to France’s famous outdoor cafe terraces or to electronic cigarettes.
France already bans smoking in many public places like workplaces, airports, train stations, and playgrounds.
Anti-smoking groups have long called for wider restrictions.
According to the World Health Organisation, about 35 per cent of France’s population smokes—more than the average in Europe (25 per cent) and around the world (21 per cent).
The Nigerian Air Force said airstrikes from its operatives with Operation Hadin Kai have killed scores of terrorists and destroyed their stronghold in Borno State.
The service air mission, which was carried out in the early hours of Friday, was conducted on fleeing Boko Haram elements in Bita, a known insurgent enclave in the North-East.
According to a statement on Friday, by the Director of Public Relations and Information at the NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the coordinated air assault marks a substantial milestone in efforts to degrade the operational capacity of the terrorists threatening national security in the region.
The statement read, “The Nigerian Air Force through the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, has recorded a major operational success against Boko Haram terrorists.
“In the early hours of today, NAF combat aircraft carried out precision airstrikes on fleeing terrorists in Bita, Borno State, neutralising scores of insurgents in what has been described as one of the most decisive blows against the group in recent times.
“The highly coordinated operation, executed under the cover of darkness, represents a major leap in ongoing efforts to dismantle the operational capabilities of terrorist elements undermining national security in the North East. Ground forces have since commenced clearance and exploitation operations to consolidate on the gains achieved from the successful air strikes.
“The NAF wishes to reassure Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting law-abiding citizens. All necessary measures are being taken to ensure that terrorist elements have no safe haven anywhere within the country.”
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has commiserated with the Niger State Government on the flood, which has claimed many lives in the Mokwa Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement signed by the NGF chairman, AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, on Friday, the forum said that it was shocked by the magnitude of the flood, which has claimed many lives and property in the community.
However, it commiserated with Governor Usman Bago, the government, and the people of the state for the loss of lives and property.
It would be recalled that no fewer than 21 people had died and property worth millions of Naira had been damaged by the flood which ravaged Mokwa in the state.
AbdulRazaq, who is the governor of Kwara State, wrote, “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum stands in solidarity with the government and people of Niger State on the devastating flood that has wreaked huge havoc in Mokwa town of the state.
“We are shocked by the magnitude of the flooding, which has resulted in the loss of lives and properties in the community.
“We sincerely commiserate with the affected families and express our support to the state government at this difficult time.
“We also commend the interventions of the Niger State Government and its coordination with the emergency responders to support the victims of this disaster.
“This flood again reminds us of the stark realities of climate change and the accompanying effects on how we live. We commit ourselves as leaders of our people to continue to work with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to not only help our people cope with this global challenge but also to strengthen mitigative actions and relief institutions.
“We pray God to console families who have lost loved ones and properties in the Mokwa incident, and we urge citizens to support the government’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and to cooperate with agencies working to assist those in urgent need at this time.”
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, all National Assembly members from Cross River State have endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu for a second term in office.
The endorsement was delivered under the banner of the ruling All Progressives Congress Caucus in the state within the party’s structure across the Senatorial districts and 18 local government areas of the state.
Speaking to newsmen and supporters on Thursday in Calabar, the Caucus Chairman and Senator representing Cross River Central Eteng Williams, described the endorsement as a collective and deliberate decision, urging all people of the state to rally behind Otu and Tinubu for a second term.
He said, “Our president has done so well, and for us in the National Assembly, we have seen it, especially the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which you and I shall enjoy.
“For that reason, we endorse him for a second term so that the road can be completed. Let us all vote for President Tinubu as our sole candidate for the 2027 elections.”
Williams applauded Tinubu for the student loan initiative and infrastructure development across the geopolitical zones in the country, as well as other developmental strides in other sectors of the economy, including the oil and gas industry, describing him as a courageous leader.
He further noted that Otu has made visible progress across the state, including the rehabilitation of the state library and the improvement in security through the recently launched Operation Okwok.
“Today, what we have seen is enough for us to go back and sleep and ask Sen. Bassey Otu to continue the good works.
“Our governor has done well and deserves our accolades. We are not mincing words; we are asking that he continue his good works in the state. So we endorse him for a second term,” he added.
In his remarks, Mike Etaba, representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency, stated that the endorsement is intended to allow both leaders to focus on governance without distractions.
On his part, Bassey Akiba of Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency echoed the same sentiment, aligning the endorsement with legislative practice.
A former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State, Kunmi Mustapha, on Thursday, backed Governor Seyi Makinde for President in 2027.
Mustapha, in a statement he signed in Ibadan, the state capital, to mark Makinde’s sixth anniversary as governor, said the bravery and leadership qualities the governor exhibited placed him a better candidate for the presidency.
“The current situation of the main opposition party in Nigeria is not an indication that the PDP cannot snatch power at the centre in 2027.
“Makinde’s giant strides in developing the state and his contributions to the progress of Nigeria are unequal,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to look out for real politicians who have their welfare at heart, rather than those who create suffering for them.
“Makinde has distinguished himself as a brave man who exhibits uncommon leadership traits.
“There has not been any politician in Yorubaland, apart from Pa Obafemi Awolowo, who has a vision for the development of the masses and put all his heart into actualising those visions.
“Urban renewal, education, health and infrastructural revamping are part of where he scored greatly, not to talk of promotion of agri-economy, workers’ welfare, unequal employment drive and care for the elderly and other neglected population of the state since he assumed office in 2015,” he said.
Mustapha, who is also the Special Adviser to Makinde on Political Affairs, said, “Come rain or shine, we commit our loyalty to him. We, therefore, urge him to start working towards 2027.”
The party chieftain appreciated the efforts of the acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, the Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja, BoT member, Chief Bode George and other national leaders for their efforts in uniting the party.
President Bola Tinubu has signed an Executive Order aimed at slashing oil and gas projects’ costs, improving government revenue, and accelerating investment inflow into Nigeria’s energy sector.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, the Federal Government said the directive introduces far-reaching fiscal reforms that prioritise cost-efficiency, operational accountability, and national value retention.
Titled “Putting Every Barrel to Work: Nigeria’s New Presidential Directive on Cost Efficiency Targets New Investments, Improved Revenues and National Value,” the order sets a bold agenda for reining in production expenses while offering globally competitive terms to serious investors.
According to the statement, one of the key provisions of the Executive Order is a cap on tax credits, limiting them to no more than 20 per cent of a company’s annual tax liability.
This measure, the government explained, is designed to protect public revenues while still rewarding efficiency and responsible operations in the upstream sector. The effective date of the Order is set for April 30, 2025.
The Upstream Petroleum Operations Cost Efficiency Incentives Order (2025) introduces performance-based tax incentives for upstream operators who deliver verifiable cost savings that meet defined industry benchmarks.
A copy of the official gazette read, “The operating costs in the Nigerian oil and gas sector have been observed to be high compared to the global average, arising mainly from prolonged project execution timelines and local content requirements. The President has, in response to the high operating costs, issued policy directives on the reduction of oil and gas sector operating costs, contracting timelines and local content compliance requirements.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to efficient management of petroleum resources and reduction of petroleum cost in the upstream petroleum sector to enhance competitiveness and efficiency; and it has become necessary to provide additional measures to promote fiscal discipline, reduce operating cost and maximise Nigeria’s economic gains from the upstream petroleum operations through monitoring mechanisms and appropriate regime of incentives.”
It also directed the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission to publish benchmarks annually according to terrain, onshore, shallow water, and deep offshore.
The commission shall, on an annual basis, conduct an assessment and benchmarking study to establish appropriate cost benchmarks for upstream operational activities and Unit Operating Costs for onshore, shallow water, and deep offshore terrains; determine the cost benchmarks in accordance with guidelines issued by the Commission pursuant to the Petroleum Industry Act, provided that prior to the issuance of guidelines, the Commission shall consult with relevant stakeholders and publish the underlying methodology for the annual benchmarking;
“With the objective of reducing the overall cost profile of petroleum operations, annually assign specific Unit Operating Cost reduction targets for each terrain, taking into consideration the peculiarities of their operating environment and production volume; and conduct annual reviews within the tax return cycle of the lessee’s or licensee’s performance with the key assessment metric being the Unit operating Costs to determine adherence to set targets,” it stated.
Additionally, detailed implementation guidelines for the new Order will be issued in due course. Among other provisions, the Order also caps available tax credits at 20 per cent of a company’s annual tax liability, protecting government revenues while still offering strong fiscal terms to incentivise efficient operators.
“Nigeria must attract investment inflows, not out of charity, but because investors are convinced of real and enduring value. This Order is a signal to the world: we are building an oil and gas sector that is efficient, competitive, and works for all Nigerians. It is about securing our future, creating jobs, and making every barrel count,” said President Tinubu.
To ensure effective implementation of the new Order, the President has tasked the Special Adviser on Energy to lead inter-agency coordination, ensuring alignment across key government institutions and translating policy intent into measurable outcomes.
“This is not a pursuit of cost reduction for its own sake. It is a deliberate strategy to position Nigeria’s upstream sector as globally competitive and fiscally resilient,” said the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Mrs Olu Verheijen. “With this reform, we are rewarding efficiency, strengthening investor confidence, and ultimately delivering greater value to the Nigerian people.”
The new Order builds on the administration’s 2024 presidential reform directives, which delivered improved fiscal terms, shortened project timelines, and aligned local content policies with global best practice.
Commenting via her official X handle, the Special Adviser to the President on Energy said the Executive Order links tax incentives to verifiable cost savings, introduces terrain-specific cost benchmarks for onshore, shallow water, and deep offshore operations, and caps tax credits to safeguard government revenue while incentivising operational efficiency.
She said, “Nigeria is raising the bar on upstream oil & gas reform. Today, I’m proud to share that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a landmark Presidential Order on Cost Efficiency, a bold and pragmatic step to make Nigeria’s upstream sector more globally competitive, fiscally resilient, and investor-aligned.
“At a time when oil prices are softening and capital is more selective, the Upstream Petroleum Operations Cost Efficiency Incentives Order (2025) does three powerful things: Links tax incentives to verifiable cost savings, Establishes terrain-specific cost benchmarks (onshore, shallow water, deep offshore) and Caps credits to protect government revenue while rewarding efficient operators
“This Order builds on earlier reforms, including improved fiscal terms, faster contracting, and commercially aligned local content rules. Now we are shifting from intent to execution with performance, discipline, and value at the centre. Let’s work together to put every barrel to work for our economy, for investors, and for the future of Nigeria’s energy security.”
Lasaco Assurance Plc has reinforced its commitment to youth empowerment, education, and meaningful community engagement with a visit to Agidingbi Primary School in Ikeja, Lagos.
In a statement, the firm said that the visit was in commemoration of the 2025 Children’s Day. The visit was characterised by lively interactions, motivational talks, and the generous distribution of educational supplies and refreshments.
The Lasaco Assurance team encouraged the children to pursue their dreams with discipline, integrity, and determination while emphasising education as the cornerstone of future success.
During the visit, the General Manager of Business Development at Lasaco, Muyiwa Anwoju, underscored the insurance firm’s deep-rooted commitment to educational development in Lagos State.
“Children’s Day is a powerful reminder that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. At Lasaco Assurance, we believe in investing in the future by supporting education and nurturing young minds,” he said.
Echoing this sentiment, Chief Financial Officer Bukola Moradeyo noted, “Our visit is more than a celebration—it’s an intentional act of impact. We want these children to feel seen, valued, and empowered to achieve greatness.”
In his remarks, Head of Strategy, Research, and Communications, Adetokun Adedayo, further emphasised the broader vision behind the initiative: “Lasaco Assurance Plc is not only committed to corporate growth but also community development through education. We believe strong communities are built on the foundation of knowledge and opportunity.”
The school’s head teacher, Mrs Hussein, expressed deep appreciation to Lasaco Assurance for their generosity and community spirit, noting that the visit complements ongoing efforts by educational stakeholders in Lagos to build strategic partnerships that improve student performance and create a nurturing learning environment.
Reflecting the company’s national footprint, Lasaco Assurance also celebrated Children’s Day through its regional offices. In Port Harcourt, the South-South Regional Office visited the State Primary School and Azuabie Primary School. Meanwhile, in the South-West region, the team commemorated the day with the pupils and staff of Methodist Primary School, Akintola Ekotedo, Ibadan.
The Heirs Insurance Group has announced the opening of applications for the fourth edition of its annual Heirs Insurance Essay Championship, targeted at junior secondary school students nationwide.
In a statement on Wednesday, it was indicated that N10.5m worth of prizes will be up for grabs in this year’s edition features N10.5m worth of prizes.
The winning student will receive an N5 m scholarship along with an N1m education grant for their school. The first and second runners-up will receive N2m and N1m scholarships, respectively. In addition, insurance-focused themes and quizzes have been embedded into the application process for students, ensuring early engagement with the concept of insurance.
To participate, students must submit original essays of not more than 500 words on the topic ‘The Role of Insurance in Keeping Families Safe and Secure’ via its website. Submissions are open from May 27 to July 8, 2025.
In a significant expansion of the initiative, the 2025 edition introduces the Teachers’ Insurance Awareness Prize, a new category designed to recognise and reward teachers who actively promote insurance education within schools and communities.
For the Teachers’ Insurance Awareness Prize, the top teacher will receive a N1m cash prize, with an additional N500,000 grant awarded to their school. To qualify, teachers must implement an insurance awareness project and provide evidence of their initiative and its impact.
Commenting on this year’s competition, Chief Marketing Officer, Heirs Insurance Group, Ifesinachi Okpagu, said, “We are excited to return with an even bigger edition of the Heirs Insurance Essay Championship. This year, we are not only empowering students and their schools but also shining a light on the critical role teachers play in shaping financially aware communities. Across our businesses, we see education as a powerful tool to build a more secure future, and we are proud to drive that vision forward.”
The Heirs Insurance Essay Championship remains a flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiative of Heirs Insurance Group, aimed at improving education outcomes and deepening insurance awareness among the younger generation. Winners of the programme will be announced at a Grand Finale event in August 2025.
Heirs Insurance Group is the insurance arm of Heirs Holdings, the leading pan-African investment company, with investments across 24 countries and four continents.
Startups and businesses across Africa have been invited to showcase their innovations at the upcoming Lagos Startup Expo, scheduled for June 18–19, 2025, at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, organisers disclosed in a statement on Tuesday.
With the theme ‘Connect, Invest and Innovate’, the Lagos Startup Expo 2025 promises to bring together the brightest minds, boldest startups, and most influential investors for two days of discovery, networking, and opportunity.
The organisers described the event as the premier platform for businesses, startups, entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts to connect, collaborate, and showcase the very best of African innovation.
The previous edition of the expo drew over 3,000 attendees and nearly 100 startups, with stories of new partnerships, product launches, and business growth echoing long after the event.
This year, the momentum is even greater, with about 200 startups and businesses from different regions expected to take centre stage. Attendees will have a front-row seat to the latest breakthroughs in fintech, healthtech, agritech, logistics, artificial intelligence, and more.
Registered participants can expect a vibrant expo floor packed with live demos, product showcases, and real-time conversations with founders and industry professionals. The event’s open, interactive format is designed to encourage genuine exchanges and build relationships that matter.
For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP passes will unlock exclusive access to masterclasses led by seasoned experts, as well as intimate networking sessions with top founders and investors.
The statement also confirmed that registration is ongoing, with both regular and VIP passes available. Regular passes grant full access to the expo floor, networking opportunities, and all product showcases, while VIP passes offer an enhanced experience, including access to masterclasses and the investors’ lounge.
The organisers added that the Lagos Startup Expo is Africa’s biggest startup showcase, designed to spotlight innovation, foster connections, and accelerate growth across the continent’s growing startup ecosystem.
The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has revealed that 70 to 80 per cent of the perpetrators of insecurity in the state are not in the forests but rather embedded within local communities as informants.
Speaking on Thursday during a special prayer event to mark his second anniversary in office, Governor Radda emphasised the critical need for intentional and decisive measures from all citizens to expose these individuals, asserting that the fight against banditry cannot succeed without addressing this internal threat.
Radda said, “We’re not here to celebrate power but rather to thank Allah and remind ourselves that leadership is a trust, not a trophy.
“This job is not about prestige. The money we manage is not ours. It belongs to the people. We are just caretakers”.
Radda admitted that the perpetrators of insecurity are not only from the forest saying those in the forest constitute only a migre number compared to those (informants) in communities.
He said, “It is no longer just about the forests. We cannot pretend, the Insecurity problem is not in the forests anymore. A lot of it is right inside our communities. That is where your voices matter the most.
“I am still calling on religious leaders and everyone on the issue of insecurity bedevilling our State. We had a security meeting yesterday and in our analysis, we discovered that only 30 to 20 per cent of perpetrators of insecurity are found in the forest, while 70 to 80 per cent are found among us in our communities.
“Those in the forest are getting information from those in our communities and they are the ones who are buying drugs, fuel for the bandits to ride to perpetrate their heinous crime, providing them with medication, taking ransom sum to them in the forest. I must say if we didn’t deal with these informants living amongst us, we would not succeed in this fight against insecurity. We should all be responsible in this course by exposing them.
“Another thing that we may not make right in the banditry fight is the lack of parental upbringings. Parents are not taking responsibility for the upbringing of their children anymore.”
He said the lack of parental upbringing has brought in another menace of insecurity, bedevilling the state.
He said, “Cases of one man with many children, while in the event he cannot take care of them, surely, they must become a nuisance.
“Religious leaders, you must rise up to create awareness on how we will curb the issues of lack of parents taking responsibility in the upbringing of their children, to let them also follow the law of the land and especially in exposing informants.
“As for us in the government, we will leave no stone unturned if anyone is found aiding bandits in whatever form. “We have given so much attention to those in the forest, and now, we will shift our focus more on those (informants) in our communities, which we believe will curtail insecurity.”
Secretary to the state government, Abdullahi Faskari, earlier said about 75 per cent of the administration’s goals have already been achieved, saying, “This government works with purpose and discipline.”
Also speaking, the Chief of Staff to the governor, Abdulkadir Nasir, said over 140 experts helped shape the governor’s development plan noting that the next phase of the administration will focus more on helping people, not just building projects.
“We have built the foundation. Now it is time for a continuation to empower people to stand on it,” he said.
