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Category: Metro

  • Nigerian airspace fully covered by radar, NAMA insists

     

     

     

     

    Radar

    By Itohan Abara-Laserian (08152358594)

    Lagos, June 15, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Airspace Management Authority (NAMA) has insisted that the Nigerian airspace is fully covered by radar.

    This is contained in a statement signed by the Managing Director of NAMA, Mr Ahmed Farouk, on Saturday in Lagos.

    Farouk said that the radar stations in Nigeria located in Kano, Lagos, Abuja, and Port-Harcourt are all serviceable.

    He described as false and misleading the claims by a blogger that an unidentified aircraft was spotted at the Presidential Villa, Abuja undetected.

    According to him, radar services for Terminal and Enroute flights are positively identified and provide air navigation services to airspace users.

    “The agency hereby wishes to state that the claim that the Nigerian airspace is not covered by radar is false and misleading.

    “The radar stations in Nigeria (Kano, Lagos, Abuja, and Port-Harcourt) are serviceable. Radar services for terminal and enroute flights are positively identified and provide air navigation services to airspace users.

    “Yes, it is true that the TRACON system, like any other electronics systems, is undergoing an upgrade of software and modernisation to meet the ever growing demand for efficient, effective and seamless air traffic management services.

    “Furthermore, the welfare of Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers in terms of salaries and allowances is not in contention, as to suggest that it is the lowest in the world.”

    Farouk added: “The reported ‘unidentified’ aircraft is a security terminology. In real terms, the aircraft in question is known, but only to the ATC.

    “The violation was in the interest of safety, as a result of adverse weather (serious thunderstorm) on the said date.

    “The purported circular issued by the NCAA is for airlines to be guided from straying into the marked and published prohibited or restricted areas of the Nigerian airspace.

    “It is obvious that the journalist in question does not understand the workings of the surveillance systems, hence his misconstrued and misguided information on Primary and Secondary Radar.

    “The agency shall willfully volunteer information on her services to anyone who requires them at any time,” said Farouk.”

    The NAMA boss assured of the agency’s commitment to ensure sustainable welfare packages for its staff, especially the Air Traffic Controllers.

    According to him, NAMA remains committed to its responsibility to provide safe, effective, economic, and efficient air navigation services in Nigeria.

    He said that the existence of robust, effective civil and military coordination and collaboration guarantees a secured airspace and air navigation.

    “We are pleased to say that the Nigerian airspace is safe and secured,” he noted. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

    ITM/ADA

    Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

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  • FEMD warns of imminent disaster as residents build on waterways

    Warning

    By Philip Yatai

    Abuja, June 15, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), has warned of an imminent flood disaster in Jahi and Gishiri Districts, Abuja, due to building on waterways.

    The acting Director- General (D-G) of FEMD, Mrs Florence Wenegieme, gave the warning in Abuja on Friday, after a risk assessment exercise in the areas by the department.

    Wenegieme said that the assessment has revealed that residents have built houses on waterways and flood plains, with drainage blocked in Jahi and Gishiri.

    This, according to her, can lead to flooding, which she said was a disaster waiting to happen.

    Wenegieme said,  “Most of the waterways have been obstructed. Residents have built houses on water ways; they have encroached the streams; they have encroached into rivers.

    “As you can see, the natural water course has been blocked, even the green areas have been overtaken by illegal buildings.”

    She explained that the risk assessment exercise was to enable FEMD to develop strategic mitigating measures against flooding and other disasters and effectively respond to emergencies.

    She said that FEMD would write to the Department of Development Control to visit the areas to ensure all developments in the areas were authorised and in conformity with the Abuja Master Plan.

    The acting D-G called on FCT residents to desist from building on waterways and sought the cooperation of the residents in the protection of lives and properties following increased volume of rainfall.

    In a related development, FEMD has trained 50 staff and volunteers on disaster response in line with global best practices.

    Wenegieme said that the simulation training, which began on Thursday, was tagged, “Disaster Response Simulation Exercise.”

    She said that the training focused on water safety, water rescue, building collapse, and fire outbreaks.

    She said that the simulation exercise was organized to enhance the capacity of the staff and volunteers.

    “This simulation exercise and drills are to build our capacity in terms of rescue operations of any kind while paramedics were trained on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation”.

    “The training exercise is aimed at equipping the staff and volunteers of the department with the needed skills and expertise to help them discharge their duties in line with global best practices,” she said.

    She explained that the volunteer local divers were selected from the six area councils of the FCT.

    This, she said, would better equip them with modern and improved methods of rescue operations.

    “We have local divers from the six Area Councils, as such, we need to polish their swimming skills, teach them the modern way of carrying out rescue operations during flooding,” she said.

    Wenegieme thanked the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike and the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud for the unflinching support to FEMD.

    The Facilitator, Mr Joe Oduah, Chief Executive Officer, RCL Industrial Safety Centre, said that building the capacity of FEMD staff and volunteers would significantly improve disaster response and save lives and properties. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    FDY/BRM

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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Initiative urges governments to address youth unemployment, human trafficking

    Unemployment

    By Philomina Attah

    Abuja, June 15, 2024 (NAN) A Pan African organisation on deepening democracy, Global Initiative for Africa Development, has called on governments at all levels to take proactive measures to address youth unemployment and human trafficking in Nigeria.

    The Director-General of the initiative, Dr Onwubuya Breakforth, made the call at the 4th Anniversary and Awards ceremony of Gospel Music Ally (GMALLY) in Abuja on Friday.

    Breakforth, a former presidential candidate and a public analyst also stressed the need for a robust support system to nurture and empower Nigerian youth.

    According to him, addressing unemployment is key to curbing human trafficking in the country.

    “Nigeria is endowed with immense talent, especially among our children.

    “This platform is designed to galvanize these gifted individuals by providing them with the support needed to reach international stages and fulfil their God’s-given potential.

    “Unemployment leads to desperation, which fuels human trafficking. Young Nigerians are often lured abroad with promises of better opportunities, only to face exploitation.

    “By creating more job opportunities and supporting local talents, we can reduce the risks they face.”

    He urged the governments to collaborate closely with organisations like GMALLY and the private sector to promote the music industry and create sustainable employment opportunities for youths.

    He said: “We need substantial investments to boost the music industry. Supporting ventures that harness local talent can help mitigate unemployment and discourage youths from seeking opportunities abroad under risky conditions.

    “We call on the government and non-governmental organisations to be more proactive. The current administration is making efforts, but much more is needed.

    “By working together, we can support our youth, reduce unemployment, and combat human trafficking,” he said.

    Pst. Ruby Chinenye, Chief Executive Officer and Convener of GMALLY

    On her part, Pst. Ruby Chinenye the Chief Executive Officer and Convener of GMALLY, emphasised the need for proper direction and guidance for the Nigerian youths.

    While highlighting the critical role of nurturing young talents to combat social vices, Chinenye said that the event marked the culmination of a month-long talent hunt across Delta, Lagos, Oyo, and the FCT.

    She said that the 15 finalists were competing for the top prize of one million Naira, while the first and second runners-up would go home with N500,000 and N250,000 respectively.

    She expressed concern over the challenges facing Nigerian youths, noting that their immense energy and passion needed to be channelled positively.

    She noted that: “Nigerians are among the most intelligent people on Earth. However, our youths need proper direction. With the right guidance, they can achieve great things.

    “Many young people are trafficked for prostitution and other vices because they lack opportunities and direction.

    “This talent hunt aims to show them that their talents can lead to a fulfilling and successful life.”

    She called on philanthropists, organisations, and governments to support initiatives that harnessed the talent of young people to discourage them from leaving the country in search of greener pastures in foreign land.

    She said that talent hunt was quite revealing, stressing that: “They are not just singers; we have seen incredible dancers, poets, and more.

    “Redirecting their energy through such platforms can significantly impact their lives and society,” she added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    APA/FDY
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    Edited by Philip Yatai

  • Nigeria’s civil service transformative, worthy of emulation – HOS

    Nigeria’s civil service transformative, worthy of emulation – HOS
    Transformation
    By Okon Okon
    Abuja June 14, 2024 (NAN) Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan, Head of the Civil service of the Federation (HOCSF), says Nigeria’s transformative processes in the civil service has placed the sector worthy of emulation among other nations of the world.
    Yemi-Esan stated this at a special Juma’at prayer, being part of the activities to mark 2024 Civil Service Week.
    The week is with the theme, ‘ Educate an African fit for the 21st century: Building resilient systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality and relevant learning in Africa’.
    Represented by Dr Sani Gwarzo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Police Affairs, Yemi-Esan said the ongoing reform was a reality which would transform the service to a different standard from what it used to be.
    “The reform is the reality, believe me, if you come to see the civil service of today as it is, it’s totally different from civil service that you knew before and the trajectory is upward and the speed in which we are moving is a phenomenal.
    “I believe that very soon Nigerians will see a civil service that is not only transformative but is worthy of emulation by any civil service in the world, ” she remarked.
    According to her, the civil service has undertaking the bold steps toward reformation and has reached a critical stage in the reform processes.
    “This is the right time to celebrate the success so far recorded as it has realigned with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
    “The African civil service day is also celebrated around the same time, we have harmonised our theme not only relevant to Nigeria but also aligned with the global efforts being made by civil servants all over the world and in Africa  particular.
    “The civil service is reforming and whatever Mr president is trying to achieve with the renewed hope agenda, we are ready to support him in that direction,” she said.
    Also, Prof. Ibrahim Maqari, Chief Imam of the National Mosque Abuja, commended the civil servants and the government in their efforts to reposition the sector to meet the global standards.
    Maqari said the nation’s civil service sector had contributed immensely to the present stage of the country, hence it’s transformation had influenced the greater part of the nation building.
    “Civil service is an integral part of  nation building without whom Nigeria would not be what it is today.
    “So our role as Muslims Umar in Nigeria is to do whatever we can’t to support the Nigerian civil servants in delivering their responsibilities.
    “We remained prayerful that Allah continues to guide our leaders to help them in all the transformational agenda they have in transforming the civil service to become a better civil service to Nigeria and for the whole world at large, ” Imam prayed.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ‘Civil Service Week’ is celebrated yearly in Nigeria, in compliance with the 1999 Tangier Declaration by African Ministers for Public Service, which is set aside every June 23 as African Public Service Day (APSD).
    This is to recognise the values and virtues of the service to the community. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    MZM/IAA
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    Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

  • Saudi Temperature: NACHON urges pilgrims to avoid direct sunlight

    Temperature

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Mina (Saudi Arabia), June 14, 2024 (NAN) The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has advised Nigerian pilgrims to use umbrellas to protect themselves from the scorching sun.

    The Executive Chairman of NAHCON, Malam Jalal Arabi, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Friday in Mina, a valley located eight kilometres South-East of the city of Mecca.

    NAN reports that this year’s hajj is taking place in sweltering temperatures that test the endurance of worshipers during the mostly outdoor rituals.

    He implored the pilgrims to always seek shade whenever possible to avoid direct sunlight.

    Arabi said,” It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty.

    ” Pilgrims are also advised to pay close attention to all health advisories and instructions provided by the medical team.

    ” To limit sun exposure, pilgrims should avoid going outside during peak heat. They should also stay cool by refraining from walking on or touching hot surfaces like rooftops.”

    Meanwhile, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health has issued a heat advisory for the pilgrims in the wake of scorching surface temperatures, which pose a significant health risk.

    The ministry highlighted the intense heat in Makkah as a major challenge for hajj, adding that prolonged sun exposure could be dangerous.

    NAN reports that on Saturday morning, pilgrims will proceed from Mina to the plain of Arafat for the major ritual of standing.

    Spanning approximately 33 square kilometers, Arafat hosts over two million pilgrims each year. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng),

    SSI/BRM

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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Shettima seeks public-private partnership to drive economic growth

    Partnership

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Abuja, June 14, 2024 (NAN) Vice-President Kashim Shettima has called for a more robust collaboration between the government and business leaders to propel Nigeria’s economic aspirations.

    The spokesperson of the Vice-President, Mr Stanley Nkwocha in a statement on Friday, said Shettima made the remark at the Heirs Holdings Group Directors’ Annual Dinner, held in Abuja.

    According to the Vice President, open dialogue, shared insights, and collaborative work between the public and private sectors are necessary tools to develop solutions tailored towards Nigeria’s unique realities.

    He called for synergy between the political class and economic stakeholders, emphasising that the two spheres are not opposites but complementary forces vital for national stability and progress.

    ” Politics is too important to be left to the politicians and enterprises that define our economic destination are too important to be left to the businessmen alone to develop.”

    The Vice-President urged conglomerates to serve as pipelines for the administration’s practical economic vision, departing from cosmetic reforms of the past.

    “Collaboration between the public and private sectors is the ingredients of a thriving economy.

    ” We must engage in open dialogue and share insights and work together to crop solutions that are peculiar to our realities.

    ” Whether it is tackling unemployment, reducing poverty, or enhancing education and healthcare, our partnership must aspire to drive sustainable development and create a safe future for all Nigerians.

    ” Our bragging right will not be about having the most unicorns on the continent but also about our entrepreneurial standing with global comparisons,” he said.

    Shettima, who commended the Chairman of Heirs Holdings Group, Tony Elumelu for his achievements, described him as an “enigma and a banking colossus whose entrepreneurial exploits have carved a niche in Africa’s economic landscape.”

    He also lauded the Heirs Holdings chairman’s visionary leadership and commitment to empowering young African entrepreneurs.

    “Tony Elumelu belongs to the class of wealthy men because he generates wealth and opportunities and is a harbinger of great tidings to the Nigerian people.

    ” For the dreams you have relegated to help build our nation, we offer our deepest gratitude and a promise to continue playing our part to enable the ease of doing business.”

    Earlier, Elumelu, reaffirmed the group’s unwavering commitment to the philosophy of Africapitalism and empowering young entrepreneurs across the continent.

    Elumelu, whose business empire spans 24 countries, noted that the annual gathering serves as a platform to review achievements, business practices, and learn from the experiences of over 100 board members.

    “Today, we started our Annual General Meeting, and it will continue until Saturday.

    ” Sessions like this afford us the opportunity to reflect on everything we have done within the year, look at things we should have done better, learn from our past mistakes, and re-strategize on how to accomplish our purpose,” he said

    Elumelu added that, at the core of Heirs Holdings’ ethos, was the belief that the private sector must play a leading role in Africa’s development, a philosophy he described as “Africapitalism.”

    He stressed the group’s focus on human impact, citing the empowerment of 20,000 young African entrepreneurs with non-refundable seed capital of 5,000 dollars each as their most significant recent achievement.

    Elumelu expressed confidence that the collective efforts of the holdings and other business groups would contribute to transforming the African continent and uplifting the black race globally.

    The Founding Trustee of the Tony Elumelu Foundation and Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Ltd, Dr Awele Elumelu, described Vice-President Shettima as an exemplary leader committed to public service and nation-building.

    ” In Heirs Holdings Group, one of our core values is excellence, and our guest speaker embodies excellence,” she said, adding that the group felt honoured by VP Shettima’s presence.” (NAN)

    SSI/ROT

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    Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

  • Sallah: LASPA urges event organisers to prioritise safe parking

    Parking
    By Chiazo Ogbolu
    Lagos, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) has called on event organisers to prioritise safe parking during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and beyond.
    The General Manager of LASPA, Mrs Adebisi Adelabu, made the appeal in a statement on Friday in Lagos.
    Adelabu emphasised the importance of proactive parking to mitigate the potential hazards associated with increased event attendance during this festive period.
    “With the Eid festivities fast approaching, we anticipate a surge in events across Lagos, which will translate to increased demand for parking spaces.
    “It is imperative that event-goers prioritise and pre-plan their parking arrangements to prevent haphazard parking, which can impede traffic flow and jeopardise public safety.
    “Let us come together to create a joyful and safe festive atmosphere, devoid of frustration and danger,” she said.
    Adelabu also underscored the necessity for strict adherence to parking regulations to ensure smooth traffic flow throughout the Sallah celebrations.
    “We must avoid blocking driveways or parking in unauthorised areas.
    “Non-compliance not only disrupts the joyous spirit of the season but also poses risks to the safety and convenience of fellow road users,” she said.
    She cautioned against converting sections of major roads into makeshift parking lots for events without proper authorisation and provision of parking marshals to oversee parking arrangements.
    Adelabu also encouraged event centres requiring parking assistance to liaise with LASPA.
    “We stand ready to assist event organisers by connecting them with nearby facilities that have available parking spaces and providing trained parking marshals,” she said.
    She, however, reiterated LASPA’s unwavering commitment to addressing all parking-related concerns, ensuring that residents and visitors alike enjoy optimal parking experiences across the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    CAN/JNC
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    Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

  • Lagos strengthens digital security, inaugurates cybersecurity advisory board

     

    L-R: Member of Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Board, Chinenye Chizea; Lagos State Deputy Gov. Obafemi Hamzat; Chairman, Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Board, Dr Osakwe Fene; and another member of the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Board, Dr Bharat Soni

     

    Cybersecurity
    By Oluwatope Lawanson/Stellamaris Ashinze

     

    Lagos, 14, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Friday inaugurated Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Board to strengthen digital security and drive technological advancement.

    Sanwo-Olu said that the inauguration marked a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to enhancing digital security and advancing its development agenda.

    The governor was representated by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, at the event  held at Lagos  House, Ikeja.

    He emphasised the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age, citing  escalating threats of cyber attacks and data breaches globally.

    The governor charged the board to develop and drive a robust cybersecurity framework for the state.

    He expressed confidence in the board’s ability to establish a robust protection ecosystem.

    “This initiative aligns with the state’s THEMES PLUS agenda, which prioritises technology and education to drive government efficiency, effective service delivery and improved quality of life.

    “It also solidifies the position of Lagos as a beacon of development in the region, paving the way for a smart, livable and cyber-protected city.

    “This public-private collaboration also aims to ensure a holistic cybersecurity approach that benefits both the government and the broader Lagos economy,” he said.

    Earlier in his address of welcome,  Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Tobosun Alake, said that the Sanwo-Olu administration had continued to advance technology and digital solutions to increase the quality of life of Lagos residents.

    The commissioner said that the inauguration of the board was a testament to the administration’s commitment to protecting the state’s ecosystem.

    The Chairman of the board, Dr Osakwe Fene, assured the government that the board would discharge its duties faithfully.

    “We will ensure that Lagos is not a smart city but a cyber-safe state.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that board comprised seven  cybersecurity experts including Mr Taiye Lambo, Dr Adewale Obadare, Mr Ben Oguntala, Mr Tunbosun Alake, Dr Bharat Soni and Mrs Chinenye Chizea. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    LAW/SKA/IGO

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    Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

  • FRSC deploys 3,500 officers in Lagos for Sallah

    The FRSC Lagos Commander, Patrick Davou in group photograph with Ojodu community, representative of Nigeria Police, Vehicle Inspection Service and others during the media conference in Lagos.

    Sallah
    By Chiazo Ogbolu
    Lagos, June 14, 2024 The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Sector Command, has deployed 3,500 personnel and 45 patrol vehicles for the safety of residents during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
    The Sector Commander, FRSC Lagos, Mr Patrick Davou, said this on Friday while presenting the FRSC Core Marshal, Mohammed Shehu’s message on the level of preparedness for the Eid-el-Kabir special patrol.
    “The Lagos command has commenced the deployment of 3,500 personnel, 45 patrol vehicles, three ambulances, 11 power bikes, three heavy duty towing trucks and others.
    “We hope that with this deployment in Lagos and others done nationwide, at the end of the Sallah celebration, we will record no death in the country.
    “All FRSC men will be working 24/7 to ensure the safety of the motoring public during the celebration,” he said.
    On Shehu’s message, Davou lamented the recent developments on our roads such as the ugly trend of using trailers/trucks to convey human beings, night trips and speed violations, among others.
    He noted that the corps had step-up measures to confront the challenges.
    He said the corps had collaborated with the Nigeria Bar Association and state judiciaries for timely prosecution of drivers and vehicle owners caught contravening established traffic regulations such as overloading and dangerous driving, among others.
    “The corps in collaboration with Beer Sectorial Group made available adequate breathalyzer and deployed to motor parks and highways to check drivers who control the wheel under the influence of alcohol.
    “The menace of drivers that convey human beings, goods and animals at the same time has led to the flag-off of the inter-agency Joint Task Force to enforce compliance and they have successfully arrested 222 trailers loaded with 3,169 passengers hanging on top of goods and animals,” he said.
    He said the objectives of the special operations was to achieve reduction in road traffic crashes, fatalities and injuries.
    He said  the corps would combine engagement of the motoring public through purposeful and impactful public education programmes, strengthening of surveillance activities to regulate unprofessional excesses.
    “Drivers should imbibe the culture of courtesy, civility and consideration for other road users, they should do the right thing at the right time.
    “I wish to call on the motoring public, especially commuters to know that the corps cannot achieve crash-free celebration unless they play their parts in checking the excesses of these drivers anytime they transit from one destination to another,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    CAN/JNC
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    Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

  • Illegal garage: LASTMA sanctions 52 commercial vehicles

     

    Garages

    By Chiazo Ogbolu
    Lagos, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has sanctioned 52 commercial vehicles for operating illegal garages and parking around Obalende and Iyana-Oworonsoki areas of the state.
    This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Taofiq Adebayo, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, on Friday in Lagos.
    According to Adebayo, this is part of efforts to ensure smooth traffic flow across Lagos.
    He said the 52 vehicle owners would be arraigned at the mobile court for traffic offences.
    Adebayo said the operation led by LASTMA Director of Operations, Mr Peter Gbegemede, was due to the directives of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr Sola Giwa.
    Adebayo quoted Giwa as saying that the drivers of these commercial vehicles, including private car owners, had been repeatedly warned by the government before the enforcement operations commenced.
    “These operations will continue, reflecting the authority’s zero tolerance for indiscriminate parking and any impediments to free traffic flow across Lagos,” he said.
    He added that Giwa was concerned over the unsightly and disruptive activities of commercial bus operators, which cause significant traffic issues for innocent motorists.
    “To ensure smooth and seamless traffic for Lagosians during this festive season and beyond, 52 commercial vehicles were sanctioned for obstructing the free flow of traffic at Obalende and Iyana-Oworonsoki.
    “The enforcement operations will be ongoing with zero tolerance for illegal garages and indiscriminate parking. We will also remove any impediments on our roads in Lagos,” he said.
    He urged motorists to take ownership of the roads and promptly inform LASTMA of any broken down or abandoned truck via the agency’s hotlines: 08100565860, 08129928490, 08129928515, and 08129928593. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    CAN/JNC
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    Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma