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The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria has vehemently rejected a proposed bill seeking to convert 37 Local Council Development Areas in Lagos State into full-fledged Local Government Areas.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Kaduna, the NYCN National President, Isah Abubakar, described the proposed bill as ”

unjust and a threat to the principles of equity and fairness that must underpin our nation’s governance.

The NYCN president argued that the development could lead to increased fragmentation and division within Nigeria’s national structure, undermining the unity and integrity of the country.

Abubakar also advocated for a fair and comprehensive review of local governance structures across the country.

The NYCN boss also called on Nigerian governors, especially northern governors, to protest against the bill, noting that northern interests must be protected.

He said, “We believe that the creation of new LGAs should not be a measure that benefits only Lagos State at the expense of other states in the federation.

“If these 37 LCDAs are allowed to transition into LGAs, it sets a dangerous precedent – inevitably, other LCDAs across the country will demand similar recognition.

“We call on Nigerian governors, especially those from Northern Nigeria, to protest against this bill. It is crucial that they stand as guardians of equitable governance, ensuring that any policies or legislation reflect the needs and rights of all Nigerians, not just those in a particular region.

“Any discussions around LGA creation should involve concerted dialogue with all stakeholders, ensuring that decisions consider the diverse needs of the entire nation rather than catering to a select few.

“We call on Nigerian governors, especially those from Northern Nigeria, to protest against this bill. It is crucial that they stand as guardians of equitable governance, ensuring that any policies or legislation reflect the needs and rights of all Nigerians, not just those in a particular region.

“As we move forward, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria remains committed to promoting unity, equity, and fairness in governance. We urge all lawmakers to reconsider the implications of this bill and to work towards the betterment of all Nigerians.”

PUNCH Online reports that the proposed bill, which has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives, has sparked intense debate across the country. While some lawmakers support the bill, others have expressed reservations about its potential impact on the country’s governance structure.

The Lagos State Government has plans to conduct local government elections in 2025, covering all 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs. However, there are ongoing debates about the desirability of LCDAs and their role in governance.

In the meantime, the NYCN has urged lawmakers to reconsider the implications of the bill and work towards the betterment of all Nigerians

“As we move forward, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria remains committed to promoting unity, equity, and fairness in governance,” Abubakar said.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Capital Territory Command, has mobilised 4,000 personnel to ensure the safety and security of residents during the upcoming Eid-Fitr celebrations.

The NSCDC FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu, announced the deployment, which spans all areas of the FCT, aimed at protecting lives, property, and critical national assets throughout the festive period.

“The Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Capital Territory Command, Olusola Odumosu, has ordered the deployment of 4000 Personnel across the nooks and crannies of the FCT ahead of the Eid-Fitr Celebrations.

“The deployment is in a bid to ensure security of lives and property as well as Critical National Assets and Infrastructure in the FCT and its environs before, during and after the celebration,” the command spokesperson Monica Ojobi said in a statement on Thursday.

The officers deployed include personnel from specialised units such as the Female Strike Force, Arms Squad, Operation Adkasu, Counter-Terrorism, and Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosives.

Their focus will be on securing vulnerable locations such as prayer grounds, shopping malls, markets, recreational centres, and government buildings.

Special attention is also being given to areas like motor parks, amusement parks, and diplomatic offices.

In addition, covert operations and surveillance are already underway, with undercover units monitoring potential security risks.

The NSCDC is also targeting locations known to harbour criminals, including uncompleted buildings that could pose a security threat.

Odumosu has instructed all Area Commanders and Divisional Officers to ensure their teams remain vigilant and proactive.

“All hands must be on deck, I will not tolerate any form of breeches, ensure you deploy your personnel adequately,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining a visible presence throughout the celebration period to prevent any security breaches.

The Commandant further urged officers to collaborate with other security agencies, maintain discipline, and respect citizens’ rights, while ensuring a smooth, peaceful celebration for all.

Odumosu also appealed to residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

He reassured the public that NSCDC personnel are ready to provide a secure environment, urging the community to play its part in keeping the festivities safe.

Lastly, the Commandant warned criminals to avoid targeting critical national infrastructure, noting that covert officers are actively monitoring the capital city and will take swift action against any offenders.

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to investigate the excessive use of explosives by quarry companies nationwide and especially in the Federal Capital Territory.

The House took the decision on Thursday after adopting a motion of urgent public importance brought before it during plenary by the member representing Ifelodun/Offa/Oyun Federal Constituency, Kwara State, Mr Tijani Ismail.

The lawmaker informed the House that ZEBERCED Quarry, located along Arab Road in Kubwa, Abuja, has been operating with significant negative impact on the surrounding communities, particularly in relation to degradation of houses, buildings and other infrastructural decay.

According to him, “The House is aware that the persistent detonation of explosives from the quarry has led to serious noise pollution, resulting in auditory impairments, respiratory health issues, and psychological distress, especially among children and elderly residents

“We are concerned that the continuous ground vibrations from quarry explosions have weakened buildings and infrastructure in the area, creating the potential for structural collapse and severe property damage, endangering lives;

“We are also concerned that heavy-duty trucks transporting materials from the quarry have deteriorated road infrastructure, leading to increased vehicular accidents, economic losses, and mobility challenges for residents.”

He added that the activities of quarry companies violate the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, “which prohibits mining operations that endanger human life, property, and the environment (Sections 61 & 116).

He also accused quarry companies of breaching provisions of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act (1992), which mandates that any industrial activity likely to affect public health among others must undergo proper and relevant assessment and mitigation planning.

He lamented “That despite clear violations of environmental and public health laws, no substantial regulatory action has been taken to protect affected residents.”

Following the adoption of the motion, the House directed its Committee on Solid Minerals to recommend the immediate revocation of ZEBERCED Quarry’s operating license if found guilty of violating health and safety regulations.

It also mandated the Committee on Solid to summon the management of ZEBERCED Quarry, the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development and other relevant agencies for an investigative hearing to assess the health impact of the quarry’s operations among others.

Ramadan Delight: Enjoy Flexible Payments, Huge Discounts & Exclusive Gifts with Adron Homes

In the spirit of Ramadan, Adron Homes and Properties is spreading joy and making homeownership more accessible with its “Ramadan Delight” promo. This special initiative offers incredible rewards and discounts, reflecting the company’s commitment to providing affordable housing solutions while embracing the essence of generosity during this sacred month.

As part of the promo, customers can enjoy up to 30% discount off land prices and the convenience of spreading payments for up to 24 months with flexible, zero-interest installment options. This incredible offer allows aspiring homeowners to invest in premium estates without financial strain, making their homeownership dreams a reality.

To make the season even more rewarding, Adron Homes is gifting subscribers valuable items, ensuring they experience the true delight of Ramadan. Customers who take advantage of this special offer will receive exciting gifts, including provision packs, provision hampers, standing fans, fruit baskets, microwaves, smart TVs, refrigerators, and many more luxurious rewards. Additionally, essential food items such as bags of rice, cartons of noodles, gallons of cooking oil, and Ramadan hampers will be shared, along with prayer mats and Qur’ans to support spiritual reflection.

Adron Homes estates are; in Lekki-Epe, Badagry, Shimawa, Ibadan, Abeokuta, Ede Osun, Osunjele, Ilisan, Jos, Sagamu, Ado Ekiti, Atan Ota, Ikorodu, Papalanto, Ijebu Ode, Abuja, Nasarawa, Niger, and more. With strategically located estates and a commitment to excellence, the company ensures that clients have access to premium and affordable properties in fast-growing areas.

Beyond offering attractive property deals, Adron Homes is reinforcing its commitment to corporate social responsibility by giving back to communities, mosques, and underprivileged individuals. The company has embarked on a charitable drive, donating food items and relief materials to support those in need, embodying the true essence of Ramadan’s spirit of generosity and kindness.

With the “Ramadan Delight” promo, Adron Homes continues to redefine real estate accessibility while celebrating the beauty of giving. Now is the perfect time for individuals and families to take advantage of this remarkable opportunity to own a home while enjoying heartfelt rewards.

The University of Port Harcourt has promoted the Director General of NESREA, Innocent Barikor, to a Professor of Political Economy and Development Studies.

His promotion came alongside that of 45 other staff members of the institution.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Onwunari Georgewill, disclosed that the promotion of Barikor and 45 other staff of the school was approved during the 187th meeting of the Governing Council, chaired by the Pro-Chancellor of the institution and Chairman, Mao Ohuabunwa.

“Prof. Georgewill further stated that 30 senior academics were promoted to the rank of Professor, and 16 others to associate professor after undergoing the rigorous assessment process set up by the university,” the statement read.

Barikor assumed office as the Director General of NESREA in May 2024.

Since he assumed office, he has recorded remarkable progress in promoting environmental sustainability in the country.

“Under his committed leadership, the Agency is vigorously implementing the Extended Producer Responsibility Programme in the Food and Beverage, Battery, Used Tyres, and Electrical/ Electronics sectors. He championed the development of key legislation to promote environmental governance, including the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024, the development of National Guidelines for the Implementation of EPR for (Plastic) Packaging, and the National Environmental (Plastic Waste Control) Regulations, which is awaiting gazette.

“Prof. Barikor, among numerous achievements, also supervised the review of the National Environmental (Permitting and Licensing Systems) Regulations 2009; and the National Environmental (International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora) Regulations 2011. Under him, the agency carried out 1,671 Compliance monitoring inspections/visits to various facilities and a total of 96 facilities shut down for environmental infractions. To achieve greater efficiency and take environmental governance close to the grassroots, he unbundled NESREA offices in key states of the federation.

“With the support of the Fleming Fund, funded by UKAid, and implemented through Management Sciences for Health MSH and the Food and Agricultural Organisation, he is equipping the National Reference Laboratory Port-Harcourt with State-of-the-art equipment for environmental research and laboratory investigations and installation of a 30Kva solar power system designed to provide 24hrs power supply to the laboratory.

“The agency in March this year, launched a National Industrial Decarbonisation Programme with the aim of tackling emissions from the industrial sector and other sources, and also hosted an International Conference on Upgrading the Lead-Battery Recycling Sector in the African Region, under the Partnership for Responsible Battery and Metal Recycling. He has provided the needed zeal and dedication to attract support from international partners such as the European Union, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the German and Japanese Governments, the African Center for Protection, and the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation,” the statement added.

Troops of the special military task force, Operation Safe Haven, have arrested two suspected killers of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu.

This is contained in a statement issued by the OPSH media officer, Maj. Samson Zhakom, on Wednesday in Jos.

The News Agency of Nigeria repots that Okechukwu, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Kafachan, Kaduna State, was abducted on March 4, at about 9:15 p.m.

Okechukwu, who was abducted at his residence in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area of the state, was later found dead on March 5.

Zhakom said that the suspects were arrested on Tuesday following a raid by troops in a settlement at the Warsa-Piti community of Lere LGA of the state.

He stated, “The suspects were arrested following a raid on the prime suspect’s hideout located at a Ruga settlement in Warsa-Piti community, following a raid by troops in a settlement at the Lere LGA of Kaduna State.

During preliminary investigation, the prime suspect, a 33-year-old man, confessed to having been contracted by another man, living in the same house as the slain priest, to kidnap him.

He added, “Troops in a follow-up operation arrested the suspect at Agwan Sarki, Tachira in Kaura LGA.

“The suspects are in custody undergoing further interrogation,” he said.

The media officer said that investigations were still ongoing to unravel the whereabouts of the remaining persons who participated in the heinous crime.

(NAN)

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has lauded the Super Eagles for their resilience and sportsmanship in Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe.

In a post on X.com on Wednesday, Obi, who travelled to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to witness the match firsthand, praised the players for their dedication and fighting spirit.

He wrote, “Yesterday, I travelled to Uyo, Akwa Ibom state capital, where I joined a host of other sport-enthusiastic Nigerians to support The Super Eagles as they played the Warriors of Zimbabwe in their sixth match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match.

“As usual, our team demonstrated the true Nigerian spirit of strength, resilience and dedication on the field of play. Football, and indeed sports, has remained a strong unifying factor for our nation battling with disunity.”

He added that while the Super Eagles did not secure the win, their determination and sportsmanship had won the hearts of Nigerians.

While we may not have clinched the victory on the field of play, our dear players have, again, won our hearts with their obvious display of sportsmanship.

“I sincerely appreciate our dear national football team and, indeed, everyone whose efforts and sacrifices got us far in this journey. Our labours were not in vain,” he wrote.

PUNCH Online reports that Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico suffered another setback on Tuesday with a potentially damaging 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

After enduring a frustrating first half, Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock for Nigeria in the 74th minute of the game but Eric Chelle’s men couldn’t hold on to their lead as they were pegged back by the visitors in stoppage time.

Nigerian football fans also expressed mixed reactions following the Super Eagles’ disappointing home draw, with many pointing out the team’s lack of coordination, poor finishing, and reliance on individual talent.