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Author: Ibironke Ariyo

  • Corps Marshal directs sector commanders to intensify enforcement of speed limit regulations

    Corps Marshal directs sector commanders to intensify enforcement of speed limit regulations

    Directive

    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 6, 2024(NAN) The Federal Road Safety Corps Marshal (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has directed Sector Commanders to intensify enforcement on installation of speed limit device as well as enhance awareness

    This is contained in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO) Corps Commander, Olusegun Ogungbemide in Abuja,

    The FRSC boss said that the Corps was perturbed by the increasing number of explosions involving cargoes, particularly tankers conveying inflammable products on Nigerian roads.

    Mohammed further said that recently there was a fatal road traffic crash that involved a Mazda saloon car and a tanker conveying gas that exploded and went into flames.

    “The crash killed two people and destroyed properties, had occurred on Obirikwerre bridge, East-West road in Rivers State on Tuesday June 4 at 08:00am,’’ he said.

    According to him, the FRSC preliminary investigation reports revealed that the crash was caused by speed violation.

    “The crash involved a total of five people, while two were killed, the remaining three were rescued without injury”, Mohammed said.

    He added that the action would be part of the concerted proactive measures to mitigate the avoidable road carnage.

    “Sector Commanders must amongst other things ascertain that these categories of vehicles comply with the policy on the installation of speed limit device.

    “This includes safety valves (anti spill), and other necessary safety components among others,” he said.

    He explained that the directive was in line with the United Nations conventions acceded to by the FRSC, especially on international carriage of dangerous goods by road.

    Mohammed also commiserated with the families of the bereaved praying God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.(NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

    ICA/AH/SH

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    Edited by Abdul Hassan/Sadiya Hamza

  • Organisation states values of cycling

    The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Malam Shehu Mohammed with cyclists at the event to mark the 6th annual celebration

    Cycling
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 3, 2024 (NAN) The President, Africa Urban Cycling Organisation, Mr Emmanuel John, has advocated for cycling in Africa for affordable, reliant and environment-friendly mode of transportation.

    John made the call during a media briefing to mark the celebration of the 6th World Bicycle Day on Monday in Abuja.

    He said that world leaders recognised the uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle which he said had been in use for two centuries.

    He also said that the theme of the observance — “Cycling as a tool for Urban Freedom” — would be a way to call for change in mindset.

    “What we are saying as regards this year theme is that we need freedom from congestion.

    “Freedom from delays and man hour losses in traffic, which health and socio-economic losses are estimated to be more than three per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in developing countries.

    “We need freedom from road accidents that claim lives, damage property and render families helpless with its costs estimated at 3.5 per cent of GDP in developing countries.

    “We need freedom from car centric mindset that has forced all road infrastructure budgets into building and expansion of wide roads for speeding cars instead of sustainable mobility systems,” he said.

    John said that there ought to be freedom from emissions that “pollute the air, damage human health and environment and put the human future existence in danger.

    “Cycling emits nothing because it burns nothing other than calories, achieving this freedom means that all hands must be on deck.

    “We need all stakeholders to go to work, the press should champion the mindsets change; and we need government at all levels to take steps towards the change we need’.”

    John call on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to provide the lead by recovering bicycle lanes on all arterials and higher road corridors in Abuja as provided for in the master plan.

    He also urged the FCT minister to include cycling in the light rails and other public transport development.

    He called for the provision of bicycle parking facilities in all rail and bus terminals, public building, markets and office premises.

    Earlier, the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Malam Shehu Mohammed, said that many might wonder why the international for safety bodies, FRSC and key stakeholders attached so much relevance to a simple age long non-motorised machinery such as the bicycle.

    “The answer is not far-fetched as the bicycle is not only simple and reliable but it is also environmentally fit and sustainable means of transportation that has a positive impact on the climate.

    “FRSC is dedicated to creating a safer and more supportive environment for cyclists throughout Nigeria”, he said.

    Earlier, the Director General, Nigeria Building and Road Research Institute (NIBRRI), Prof. Samson Duna, said that the agency would provide technical support.

    He commended the FRSC for championing the course of cyclists to enhance transportation system in the country.

    Highlights of the event included the FRSC Corps Marshal riding a bicycle with pupils of a private primary school in Abuja to symbolise the beginning of the activities to mark this year’s World Bicycle Day.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    ICA/KAY
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    Edited by Kayode Olaitan

  • Embrace cycling for healthy living, transportation – FRSC tells Nigerians

    Embrace cycling for healthy living, transportation – FRSC tells Nigerians

    Cycling
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 3, 2024 (NAN) The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Malam Shehu Mohammed has urged Nigerians to embrace cycling for healthy living and transportation.

    Mohammed gave the advice while addressing newsmen  mark the 6th edition of the United Nations World Bicycle Day on Monday in Abuja.

    He said that the FRSC had provided leadership on the subject since 2010, adding that the corps would continue to uphold the cause while streamlining the objectives with policies and programs for maximum impact.

    He also said that the corps has reviewed the Nigeria Highway Code to reflect this new thinking of safe and sustainable transport system as witnessed across the world.

    He added that advocacy had also been adequately captured in the Nigerian Road Safety Strategy II, 2021-2039 as approved by President Bola Tinubu.

    This, he said included all legal and regulatory documents, which where were being aligned to ensure that cyclists could ride safely on the roads.

    According to him, the motoring public should therefore be reminded that we shall continue to enforce the provisions of the law including the protection of the rights of cyclists.

    ”Without mincing words, no mode of transport promotes the culture of serenity, orderliness, friendly neighborhood and urban peace as the bicycle.

    ”It is the only individual means of mobility fit for all residents irrespective of age, gender and class.

    ”We hereby emphasise the use of bicycle as a panacea for promoting health, preventing disease, promoting tolerance with a sense of community, mutual understanding and respect and facilitating social inclusion”, he said.

    The FRSC boss implored relevant authorities to create an enabling road features and environment that would aid stakeholders and all motoring public to advance the use of the bicycle.

    He assured that the corps would continue to champion the course in solidarity with the objectives of the United Nations and desire of all safe and sustainable transport enthusiasts all over the world.

    Mohammed cautioned cyclists to remain vigilant on the road and assume responsibility for safe roadway cycling.

    He also admonished the motoring public to treat cyclists with the same precautions and respects accorded any other vehicle on the roads.

    He further assured that the renewed hope of scaling road traffic administration and safety management in Nigeria would stand the test of time.

    ”Roads must be safe to unleash the pore of cycling and encourage riders to have buy in.

    ”The corps responds to this concern by pledging to continue the use of the powerful and effective tool of advocacy to get the desired change.

    ”We will not relent in bridging the gaps to ensure cycling is a shining priority and gets appropriate attention”, he added.

    Similarly, Mr Emmanuel John, President, African Urban Cycling Organisation, said that since the inception of the World Bicycle Day in 2018, the organisation had been resolute and committed to promoting the use of bicycle as a means of eradicating poverty.

    John said that the organisation had also been committed to furthering sustainable environment and development as well as strengthening education.

    This he said included physical education for children and young people, promoting health, preventing disease and facilitating social inclusion and a culture of peace.

    ”We have collaborated with relevant stakeholders for the hosting of activities to mark the day in Nigeria including workshops, cycling rallies among others.

    ”We call on relevant stakeholders at all levels to join hands to champion the course”, he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the year 2024 is the 6th annual World Bicycle Day with the theme ”Cycling As a Tool For Urban Freedom”. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    ICA/DCO/SH

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    Edited by Deborah Coker/Sadiya Hamza

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • FRSC Corps Marshal Commiserates with Bauchi state Governor

    The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Malam Shehu Mohammed

    FRSC Corps Marshal commiserates with Bauchi state Governor

    Death
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 2, 2024(NAN)The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Malam Shehu Mohammed has commiserated with the Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State over the death of the Commissioner For Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs, Ahmad Jalam.

    This is contained in a statement issued by the FRSC Spokesman, Mr Olusegun Ogungbemide stated this on Sunday in Abuja.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Victim was involved in a ghastly road crash which on Saturday, June, 1.

    The Corps Marshal however, expressed sadness over the incident, describing it as unfortunate.

    He vowed to intensify the safer road campaign to avert such incidents in the future.

    He said “the unfortunate incident was another sad reminder of the need for us at the FRSC to increase the tempo of our campaign on the nation’s highways which the Corps is committed to doing.

    Mohammed prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and enjoined the Governor and people of Bauchi State to have the fortitude to bear the great and irreparable loss.

    “We therefore pray Allah’s for forgiveness for his shortcomings while on the earth and for him to be granted Aljanah Firdaus,” the Corps Marshal added.

    The FRSC boss reiterated the commitment of the FRSC to dealing with the menace of road traffic crashes in collaboration with relevant stakeholders at the various levels.(NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

    ICA/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • NDLEA intercepts over N2.1bn worth of Codeine syrup, Loud consignment

    Illicit drugs intercepted by NDLEA operatives

     

    NDLEA intercepts over N2.1bn worth of Codeine syrup, Loud consignment
    Drugs
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 2, 2024 (NAN) The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted large consignments of codeine-based syrup and Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis worth over N2.1 billion in street value.
    The NDLEA spokesman, Mr Femi Babafemi said this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.
    Babafemi said that the consignments were seized at Onne port, Rivers and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, (MMIA) Ikeja by the NDLEA operatives.
    According to him, at the Lagos airport, NDLEA officers with the cooperation of other security agencies on Friday May 31, intercepted a large consignment of Loud.
    He said that the drugs were in eight suitcases, containing 320 parcels with a total weight of 164.50kg of the strong psychoactive substance.
    He added that they were coming from Canada on a KLM flight via Amsterdam, Netherlands.
    Babafemi said that the consignment estimated to be worth N960 billion, which was brought in by a passenger, Ughenu Francis, was discovered at the E-arrival hall of the airport by personnel of NDLEA, Customs and others.
    “This was during a joint search operation by the security operatives while the suspect was attempting to smuggle the suitcases out of the hall.
    “Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is a resident of Germany but travelled to Toronto, Canada to transport the drug to Nigeria.

    “During his interview, he claimed that he was recruited as a mule to convey the drug to Nigeria for an agreed fee of N6 million,” he said.

    Codeine syrup seized by the NDLEA operatives
    In another development at the Onne Port in Rivers, NDLEA operatives on Monday May 27 intercepted a container marked TEMU 6807401 imported from India enroute C to C bonded terminal in Enugu.
    According to Babafemi, during a joint examination of the container by personnel of NDLEA, Customs and other security agencies, 1,750 cartons of codeine were discovered.
    He said the cartons, which collectively weighing 26,250kg, contained 175,000 bottles of the opioid worth N1,225,000,000, in street value.
    “Also, in Abuja, a 25-year-old lady, Blessing Thomas, was arrested with 1.0kg methamphetamine by NDLEA operatives on patrol along Kwali – Gwagwalada expressway,” he said.

    Babafemi said that the suspect was arrested on Friday May 31 while travelling in a commercial bus from Lagos to Yola, Adamawa state.

    Illicit drugs intercepted by the NDLEA operatives
    Also, Babafemi said that operatives in Nasarawa state on Wednesday May 29 nabbed a 70-year-old man, Muhammadu Ibrahim, with 57.2kg of  marijuana in Lafia, the state capital.
    The NDLEA spokesman further said that two suspects: Suleiman Kazeem, 35, and Sunday Gbenga, 20, were arrested when NDLEA officers raided Ara forest in Ara-Ekiti, Ekiti state.
    He said that the operatives recovered 426 kilogrammes of marijuana already processed and packed in big sacks.
    Babafemi added that the NDLEA operatives also destroyed over 4,000kg of marijuana on 1.66 hectares of farmland on Thursday May 30.
    According to him, operatives of the agency also seized 76 blocks of marijuana, weighing 42kg, from a Nigerien, Suleman Audu, 29, in Katisna State.
    He said that the suspect was arrested on the Zaria – Malumfashi road on Wednesday May 29.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    ICA/ISHO/AOS
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    Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Bayo Sekoni

  • Foundation donates food items, clothing to 250 widows in FCT

    Some of the beneficiaries at the widows empowerment programme

    Foundation donates food items, clothing to 250 widows in FCT

    Widows
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 2, 202 ((NAN) Still Waters Foundation has distributed food items and clothing to over 250 vulnerable widows in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to support their efforts in catering for the family.

    Speaking during the event in Abuja, the Founder, Dr Femi Lanre-Oke said that the theme of the event tagged: “Renewed hope” was timely due to the present economic situation of the country.

    Lanre-Oke said that the basis for diligently driving the foundation was derived from the passion and need to impact lives.

    He emphasised the importance of food in the lives of people especially the underprivileged widows who were facing series of societal challenges and had gone through pain, discrimination and neglect.

    Lanre-Oke said that the foundation was not just about helping the widows and the less privileged but also discovering and empowering the youths to become ambassadors of peace.

    “This is because the first thing about a widow was that you see a person whose joy has been taken away.

    “The husband is no more and more likely to be the strength of that family; so, when you identify with people like that, you are fulfilling the covenant of God In Isaiah 58, ” he said.

    According to him, when you see a widow, you see somebody whose joy was stolen, whose strength failed, and who is now alone.

    “So when you identify with that, you bring encouragement to them, you bring support to them, you are bringing strength to them. That is the major thing, “ he said.

    Lanre-Oke, who is also the Lead Pastor, Jesus Praise Evangelical Ministries International (JPEMI) urged government to identify with the windows and their children for the growth of the society.

    He also urged government at all levels to make life easy and convenient for widows, adding that granting them access to soft loan for a business would go along way.

    “If these widows are strengthened number one, they take care of their children.

    “If they are encouraged and supported, they make provisions for them, make assistance for them, ” he said.

    He reiterated the commitment of the foundation to continue to impact the lives of the less privileged people in the society and other vulnerable.

    In their separate remarks, some of the widows expressed gratitude to the foundation as some were seen with smiles and relief on their faces.

    Some of the widows that got Tailoring/ Sewing machines, hair dressing materials among others

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that aside the food items and clothing materials donated, five widows were empowered with two hair dressing machines, two tailoring machines and one melon grinding machine.

    The Foundation also promised to help the widows by paying the children’s school fees, setup some of them with business among others in the next edition of the program.(NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

    ICA/BEN/SH

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    Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Sadiya Hamza

  • 107,646 produced passport booklets uncollected nationwide, says CG

    The Comptroller General, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) Kemi Nandap

    107,646 produced passport booklets uncollected nationwide, says NIS

    Passport
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, May 31, 2024 (NAN) The Comptroller General, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) Kemi Nandap has said that 107,646 produced passports remained uncollected nationwide.

    The Service Public Relations Service (SPRO) Mr Kenneth Udo said this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

    The CG however, appealed to applicants whose passports have been produced to go for pick-up at the various Passports Issuing Centres across the country.

    Nandap lamented that efforts being made at reaching out to the owners had proved abortive.

    “Applicants are therefore strongly advised to always provide verifiable addresses and phone numbers when filling their online passport application forms for easy contact, “she said.

    The NIS CG directed that all Passport Offices in Lagos should operate on Saturdays between 9am – 2pm.

    This, she said would enable officials attend to applicants coming for the collection of their produced passports only.

    “Therefore, those concerned are hereby informed to take advantage of this opportunity.

    “For further enquiries, complaints or feedbacks, the Service can be reached through the following channels:

    “Twitter: @nigimmigration, Instagram: @nigimmigration, Official Website: http://www.immigration.gov.ng, Contact centre: 09121900655;09121556359;09121477092, “she said. (NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

    ICA/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza