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  • MTN Foundation executive highlights importance of healthcare to economy

    Healthcare
    By Stellamaris Ashinze
    Lagos, June 14, 2024 (NAN) Executive Director and Board Member, MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya on Friday highlighted the importance of healthcare system to the economic growth of the nation.

    Sanya who made this known in her keynote address at the 10th graduation of CLI College in Lagos, said that strong healthcare system would enhance a thriving economy.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the graduation of over 50 students at the CLI College exemplifies its dedication to equipping Nigerians with the skills and knowledge needed to address the critical needs for qualified healthcare professionals.

    She said that a healthy workforce was essential for any economy.

    ‘’When there are issues with healthcare, it erodes the talents and hinder economic growth,’’ Sanya said.

    She noted the crucial roles of the private sector, encompassing not only corporations but also individuals and institutions in bridging the skills’ gap within the Nigerian healthcare industry.

    The executive director also encouraged the graduating class on the importance of collective action in building a stronger healthcare system for Nigeria.

    In her welcome address, Head of Health School, CLI College, Angela Chizea, acknowledged the graduates’ dedication and emphasised the importance of education in shaping their future.

    Chizea said that CLI College’s graduation exemplified its dedication to equipping Nigerians with the skills and knowledge needed to address the critical need for qualified healthcare professionals.

    According to her, the programmes empower graduates to enter rewarding careers and contribute significantly to the national healthcare workforce.

    She, however, expressed gratitude to the college staff and supportive families who played a role in the graduates’ journey.

    Chizea acknowledged critical roles played by the college staff, whose tireless efforts and unwavering support had helped shape the journey.

    The institution also announced the launch of new health care programmes including Health Office Administration, Developmental Support Worker and Pharmacy Assistant programmes to further enhance healthcare professionals’ knowledge and skills.

    NAN reports CLI College is a private career college in Nigeria offering Diploma and Certificate programmes designed to prepare students for success in healthcare, business, technology and creativity. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    SKA/AJA
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    Edited by Adeleye Ajayi

     

     

  • 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

  • National cohesion critical for fostering stability, progress -UNDP

     

    National cohesion critical for fostering stability, progress -UNDP

    Graduation

    By Muhammad Tijjani

    Jaji(Kaduna State), June. 24, 2024(NAN) The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) says good leadership and national cohesion are critical for fostering stability, progress, and prosperity within our great nation.

    The UNDP Team Lead, Governance, Peace and Security, Mr Mathew Alao stated this at the graduation ceremony of the Leadership and National Cohesion Course 1 (LNC), at Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peace Keeping Centre (MLAILPKC) Jaji, Kaduna State, on Friday.

    Alao said the graduation was a significant step towards the advancement of peace, security, and unity within our beloved nation, Nigeria and ECOWAS sub-region.

    ”Leadership start with us as parent that brings little children to this world. Leadership starts from grassroots.
    ”Unfortunately, we have lost it. Nigeria today is very individualistic. It’s all about i and my family. And this is leading us to no where. This is why this course is very critical at this moment.
    ”If nothing is done to address the leadership deficit from the family unit, from the community unit and community level, we are not going anywhere. Money can not save our society,” he said.
    He commented the participants of the training for dedication to the programme

    “Over the past two weeks, you have dedicated yourselves to an intensive programme that not only on leadership skills but also fosters an understanding of the essential tenets of national cohesion.

    “Your presence here signifies a commitment to making Nigeria a better, more unified country, “he said.

    ”Today, we recognize your accomplishments and the bright future that lies ahead.

    ”I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Commandant and his team of instructors and resource persons at the Centre for your unwavering commitment to equipping our future leaders.

    ”Also acknowledge the generous financial support and strong partnership of the Government of Japan,” he said

    He said the funding and partnership had made the course possible, and dedication to promoting peace and stability in the continent, ECOWAS and Nigeria is deeply appreciated.

    “Together, we are working towards a brighter and more unified future for our planet,” Alao said.

    The Chief of Training, Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen. Sani Mohammed, noted that the collaborative effort between MLAILPKC and the Japanese Government through the United Nation Development Programme (UNDP) which gave raise to the course.

    The Chief of Training was represented by Maj-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Infantry.

    He said a country without national integration was often implied as the country deprived of social cohesion, sense of nationalism and with a failed socio-politico-economy.

    “In bringing up these values, there lies a strong leadership role,” he said.

    He said the overall objective of the LNC was to develop human capacity to equip the participants to be able to handle challenges that arises with leadership.

    “It was aimed at identifying, analyzing and evaluating the drivers of disunity, disintegration and insurrection in the polity in order to provide a pathway for national integration and cohesion,” Mohammed said .

    Also in his remarks the Commandant, MLAILPKC Maj-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, said the LNC was designed to provide the participants with the skills and knowledge required to operate effectively in a complex dynamic multi-disciplinary, multi- cultural and religious environment.

    He said it was also aimed at equipping participants to become role models in their various establishments and in addition, good ambassadors of this Centre.

    “As you graduate today, as the pioneers of the LNC, please know you are vanguards of improved Leadership and National Cohesion.

    “You must always remember that so much has been given to you and as such, so much is expected from you as trained Leadership and National Cohesion Officers, “Adedoja said.

    Adedoja appreciate the Government of Japan, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for their enormous support towards achieving success of this course.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    TJ/IAA

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    Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Blood donation noble act of giving–NNPC

    Life

    By Franca Ofili

    Abuja, June, 14, 2024(NAN) Mrs Mirian Anabui, Manager Diagnostics Services NNPC Medical Services Limited (NMSL), has described blood donation as a noble act of giving that symbolises the essence of humanity.

    Anabui expressed this view on Friday in Abuja at an event to commemorate the 2024 World Blood Donor Day.

    The theme of the event was “20 years of Celebrating Giving: Thank You Donors!”

    “We stand united in gratitude and admiration for the noble act of giving; the act that sustains lives, fuels hope, and embodies the essence of humanity.

    “Today, we come together to celebrate a remarkable milestone: 20 years of giving.

    “With each donation, you have provided hope to those in need, strength to the vulnerable, and reassurance to the weary,” she said.

    According to her, donors have represented the spirit of solidarity and compassion; demonstrating that a single act of kindness has the power to transform lives and shape the course of our shared humanity.

    She urged them to reaffirm their commitment to supporting blood donation initiatives, raising awareness and advocating for equitable access to safe blood supplies for all.

    “Together, we can ensure that the legacy of giving continues to thrive and that future generations inherit a world where the gift of life knows no boundaries,’’ she said.

    Delivering a lecture, Mr Oyetunde Akinloye, a educator, Blood Safety Consultant, said that the event was to create awareness for blood donations to ensure the quality, safety and availability of blood and blood products.

    According to him, there is life in every drop; hence the need to give blood.

    Akinloye said that blood services were vital part of the healthcare system, providing life-saving transfusion for a variety of medical conditions.

    “However, maintaining a sustainable blood supply can be challenging due to factors like short shelf life of blood products, fluctuations in donor availability and increase demand for blood transfusions.

    “Others are fund, high turnover of trained, skilled personnel and infrastructure/equipment,” he said.

    According to him, blood transfusion situation in Nigeria lacks of reliable data.

    Akinloye said that enhancing blood service sustainably should be a national blood policy.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that certificates was given to donors.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

     

    FNO/CJ/

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    Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Customs intercepts N4bn illicit drugs at Tin Can Island Port

    From the middle, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi; the Zonal Coordinator Zone A, ACG Saidu Yusuf; the Customs Controller, Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi; and the representative of NDLEA, during the briefing of the intercepted cannabis, codeine in Lagos on Friday.

    Interception
    By Aisha Cole
    Lagos, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The Comptroller-General, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adeniyi said the service intercepted large consignments of illicit drugs including cannabis indica, prohibited codeine and other illicit drugs from Canada and India.

    Adeniyi made this known to newsmen in Lagos on Friday, saying that the intercepted drugs were valued at N4 billion.

    He said among the intercepted drugs by the Tin Can Island Port Command was 172kg of cannabis indica concealed in three drums and intercepted by the Intelligence Unit of the service.

    According to the comptroller-general, a breakdown of the drugs include three plastic drums of cannabis indica; 46 bags of cannabis indica; 877 codeine syrup and 82 cartons of other drugs valued at 4 billion.

    He said that the cannabis was intercepted in two 40ft containers while the intercepted codeine was also in two 40ft containers.

    Adeniyi who described the seizures as a warning to those involved in the unlawful acts, said that the service would ensure the dismantling of the network of people involved.

    “I promise to apply the heaviest sanction against customs officers found culpable.

    “Beyond revenue loss, some port operators and officers of the service are suspected to be involved in the illegal drug importation.

    “Intelligence indicated that a lot of terminals are involved in the customs’ findings and that there are abuses of procedures involving customs officers.

    .”The importer of the drugs gave two fake addresses which raised customs curiosity leading to the discovery,” Adeniyi said.

    He commended the Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port, Comptroller Dera Nnadi and his team for the seizures which he described as a fall-out of dedication and hard work.

    Adeniyi recalled that in recent months, the service had reported numbers of successfully-executed interceptions of illicit drugs, arms and ammunition, illegal wildlife and petroleum products at various locations which represented concerted efforts to prevent illegal entries into our country through diverse routes.

    He drew attention to the misuse and abuse of drugs, particularly cannabis indica and codeine which posed severe dangers to the society and also the devastating effects on youths.

    Adeniyi said that the proceeds from illicit drugs were often used to finance disruptions by non-state actors, which was inimical to national security and economy.

    “The Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration is determined to stabilise the economy and create an environment where all our citizens can thrive and prosper.

    “As part of these efforts, Nigeria’s customer service plays a crucial role, not only in revenue collection from legitimate trade but protection of our society.

    “Our mandates include ensuring that harmful and illegal substances do not find their way into our communities.

    “It is within this context that the ongoing collaborative efforts between Nigeria Customs Service, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and other sister agencies have consistently yielded positive results,” Adeniyi said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    AIC/AJA
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    Edited by Adeleye Ajayi

     

     

     

     

     

    From L-R the Representative of NDLEA; the Customs Controller, Tin Can Island Port,Comptroller Dera Nnadi; the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi; and the Zonal Coordinator Zone A, ACG Saidu Yusuf during the briefing of the intercepted cannabis, codeine in Lagos on Friday.

  • Nigeria deploys troops for peace keeping in Gambia

    Troops deployed for peacekeeping mission in Gambia on Friday at Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre Jaji Kaduna state.

     

     

    Nigeria deploys troops for peace keeping in Gambia
    Deployment
    By Muhammad Tijjani
    Jaji(Kaduna State), June. 14, 2024(NAN)The Armed Forces of Nigeria on Friday, announced the deployment of 197 personnel for the peace keeping mission in the Gambia.
    The Chief of Operations Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen. Boniface Sinjen made the announcement in Jaji, Kaduna State, at the graduation of troops of Nigerian Company 9 Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG).
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), report that the 197 troops began Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) on May 4, at Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) Jaji Kaduna State.
    According to him, the PDT is in line with the commitment of the Chief of Army Staff , Lt -Gen Taoreed Lagbaja and the Armed Forces of Nigeria in deploying quality peacekeepers in support of international peace and security.
    He said that the training had equipped them with the necessary tactical skills and knowledge required for peace support operations.
    “It  has prepared you for the protection of civilians and the accomplishment of assigned tasks under the ECOMIG mandate.
    “You have learned the importance of teamwork, leadership and cultural sensitivity as well as other factors that would ensure your success in the mission area.
    “You have been trained in the latest techniques and procedures for maintaining peace and stability in a complex environment and instilled with the values of discipline, respect for human rights and compassion for the people you are going out there to protect.
    “Your mission comes at a critical time, as The Gambia faces a period of
    uncertainty and instability, “he said.
    According to him, the country’s political crisis has affected the lives of many innocent civilians and their presence will sustain the existing peace and stability to the region.
    “Your role is crucial in maintaining peace, protecting lives and promoting sustainable development.”
    Sinjen  charged  the troops to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights.
    He advised them to adhere strictly to the ECOWAS’ mandate, which guides your mission and ensure that your actions align with the principles of peace, stability and human rights.
    ”Remember that your conduct will not only reflect on yourselves but also on your country, the ECOWAS region and the international community.
    ”Additionally, your training has exposed you to the culture and religious diversity of The Gambia.
     “You are, therefore, expected to approach all interactions with sensibility and respect. Be mindful of the local customs, traditions and socio-political dynamics of the mission area.
    ”You must remain vigilant in the face of potential security threats and   avoid any actions that may be perceived as insensitive,” he said.
    He said that as peacekeepers in a sovereign nation, they must adhere strictly to the UN principles and guidelines for peacekeeping operations.
     “Respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of The Gambia and avoid any actions that may be perceived as interference in the country’s internal affairs.”
    He said the Armed Forces of Nigeria had zero-tolerance on sexual exploitation and abuse in line with United Nations’ policies.
    ”Therefore, any form of sexual exploitation and abuse will be met with severe consequences.
    “As ambassadors of the armed Forces of Nigeria and our great nation, you must uphold the esteemed values and enviable image of this country, “Sinjen said.
    Earlier, the Commandant of MLAILPKC, Maj-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, said the six weeks training had been intense, comprehensive, and was conducted in line with the Standard UN Core Pre-Deployment Training Modules.
    Adedoja said the PDT was to equip the earmarked unit with the requisite skills and knowledge to function effectively and efficiently in their deployment to the Gambia.

    He said as  part of their training, the troops were taken through crosscutting issues like Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, Conflict Related Sexual Violence, Conduct and Discipline as well as Protection of Civilians amongst others.

    “This graduation is a testament to the capacity and capability of the MLAILPKC as a United Nations accredited Centre to conduct quality training of prospective peacekeepers for deployment to multidimensional Peace Support Operations in fulfillment of her mandate.

    “The Centre has within the last six weeks been able to train, retrain and refresh the troops on requisite knowledge and expertise to succeed in a Peace Support Operation environment.

    ” It is my fervent belief that these men are better informed and equipped to perform their roles in the Gambia, “Adedoja said.

    He said the graduation ceremony once more showed the commitment of Nigeria and the Nigerian Armed Forces to global peace and security. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    TJ/IAA

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    Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

     

  • SEC warns Nigerians against investing in $Davido Meme Coins 

     

    Coins

    By Rukayat Adeyemi

    Lagos, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The Securities and Exchange Commission, Nigeria (SEC) on Friday warned Nigerians against investing in Meme Coins, known as “$Davido”, allegedly linked to popular Nigerian singer David Adeleke, known as Davido.

     

    In a statement on its website, SEC said that it does not recognise $Davido as an investment product or investable asset class under its regulatory purview.

     

    The regulator noted that, consequently, individuals who invest in it do so at their own risk.

     

    “Generally, meme coins are cryptocurrencies inspired by memes and internet jokes.

    “They are often envisaged as a fun, light-hearted cryptocurrencies promoted through a social media community and sometimes through celebrity endorsements,” it said.

    According to SEC, meme coins are not intended to serve as a medium of exchange accepted by the public as payment for goods and services or as digital representation of capital market products.

    The commission listed such capital market products as: shares, debentures, units of collective investment schemes, derivatives contracts, commodities or other kinds of financial instruments or investments.

    The regulator said: “The general public is hereby advised that meme coins lack fundamental value and are purely speculative.

    “The general public is further warned that investing in meme coins, including $Davido, is highly risky and should be done with a full understanding of the associated risk.

    “Capital market operators are by this notice warned not to associate with instruments that fall outside the SEC’s regulatory purview.

    “Such instruments should not in any manner be distributed or monitored through any capital market mechanism.

    SEC stated it would continue to monitor developments within the ecosystem and would not hesitate to deploy its regulatory powers as needed. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

     

    RUKY/AWA

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    Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

  • Bedridden sports coach begs Soludo, other Nigerians for help

    Appeal
    By Chimezie Anaso
    Awka, June 14, 2024 (NAN) An Awka-based grassroots football and gymnastics coach, Benson Udeh, bedridden for eight years, has appealed to Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra and other public-spirited Nigerians to come to his aid.

    Udeh, who is bedridden with spinal cord injury, made the appeal on Friday, when he spoke with newsmen from his sick bed in Awka.

    He said that with the assurances given by the experts managing him, he was hopeful to walk again, if he could have access to the necessary medical care.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Udeh sustained a spinal cord injury in June 2016 on his way to the final of the maiden Gov. Willie Obiano Academicals Football Competition at the Rojenny Stadium, Oba, near Onitsha.

    He was leading his team, the Community Secondary School, Aguluezechukwu and Community Secondary School, Isuanocha, when their vehicle crashed at the Oba-Nnewi Road.

    He was treated at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, Memphis Specialist Hospital, Enugu and National Orthopedic Hospital, Enugu but stopped receiving treatment since 2017.

    He said: “Living in solitary confinement for eight years has been the most traumatic experience in my life.

    “It has been eight years now since I sustained this spinal cord injury and I have been bedridden since then.

    “l thank everybody for the assistance they have given to me but I still want to walk again.

    “I call on Gov. Soludo and his sports-loving and compassionate wife to help me.

    “I call on lovers of sports and public-spirited Nigerians to support me financially to get the needed medical attention,” Udeh said.

    He said that he still love football and wanted to go back to what he loved doing, including helping young people to discover and develop their talents in sports. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    APC/OIF/USO
    Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Sam Oditah

     

     

     

  • FG restates commitment to power infrastructures protection

    FG restates commitment to power infrastructures protection

    Infrastructure
    By Kelechi Ogunleye
    Abuja, June 14, 2024(NAN) The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to adequately protect Nigeria’s power infrastructures against vandals.

    Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said this on Friday in Abuja at the inauguration of the second batch of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals.

    Tunji-Ojo said the ministry would collaborate with the Ministry of Power to stop power transmission and generation points vandalisation.

    “”It is not acceptable for millions of dollars to be spent on power and then we have them vandalised as no country grows without a good power sector.

    “We will take this sector by sector and get to the agricultural sector which will ensure food security.”

    The minister said he would ensure that the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Tinubu to ensure the protection of critical infrastructure in all sectors is realised.

    “We have seen the result of the first batch as the revenue in the mining sector has improved. However, there is need to train more to ensure all mining critical infrastructures are properly secured.

    “In the solid minerals sector we are winning the battle, although we have not won yet, but we are winning gradually because there is nothing inappropriate in Nigeria that cannot be made right by Nigerians.

    “I challenge you as a corps to keep to your word to protect every asset of government and defend Nigeria and hand over to generations after you,” Tunji-Ojo said.

    The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, said that the operations of illegal miners had displaced legitimate miners.

    Alake, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Mary Ogbe, said that the integration of the Federal Mines Officers and the Marshals across states would sanitise the sector.

    “No one could have imagined the plight of licence owners who can neither engage in the exploration or mining of the cadastral units of their licences because bandits had defied the law by occupying such places illegally.

    “Since the inauguration of the mining marshals, we have provided relief by deploying the squad to successfully recover such places and enable the owners to resume legitimate businesses.

    “The illegal haulage of minerals has come under scrutiny as arrests are made daily and the culprits face prosecution in the courts of law,” Ogbe said.

    NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi said that the newly inaugurated 350 mining marshals would swing into action immediately having undergone eight weeks of intensive training.

    “You are expected to imbibe the spirit of patriotism, absolute loyalty and to eschew unethical conduct capable of dragging the corps in the mud as anyone found culpable will be appropriately sanctioned.

    “It is no longer news that the nation’s security, especially in the mining sector, is being threatened by the nefarious activities of illegal miners, bandits, kidnappers, terrorists among others.

    “Illegal mining operations has not only led to shortchanging the government but also led to loss of revenue, environmental pollution, degradation and health hazards,” he said.

    Audi said that safe legal mining operations would attract and encourage genuine local and foreign investors to engage in mining activities in Nigeria.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    KAYC/DCO/IS
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    Edited by Deborah Coker/Ismail Abdulaziz

  • Sallah: FRSC deploys 654 personnel in Delta

    Sallah: FRSC deploys 654 personnel in Delta

    Sallah
    By Clara Egbogota
    Asaba, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Delta Command, has deployed 654 personnel including regular and special marshals to various locations in the state to ensure safety during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

    Mr Muftau Irekeola, Sector Commander, FRSC, said this on Friday in Asaba while addressing personnel of the command in preparation for the Eid-el-Kabir special patrol.

    Irekeola said that a total of 654 personnel, 19 operational vehicle, one ambulance, one power bike, and others would be deployed in the state.

    The sector commander, however, said that the command was partnering with private tow truck owners, saying that the command’s tow truck was not in good condition.

    “If it is more than 30 tons truck, we will call FRSC Onitsha command for towing because Onitsha is less than four kilometers away from Asaba,” he said.

    He urged motorist to drive with caution, and pay attention to other road users.

    “During rainy season, the grip of their tyres on the road is reduced because of the rain, they need to speed less, in fact they are supposed to go on a reasonable speed.

    “Even the passengers should not board overloaded vehicle, they should talk to the driver and if he is not listening they should drop at the next available bus stop.

    “They can alert any FRSC officials or security agency on the road,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    ECO/AYO/IKU
    Edited by Ayodeji Alabi/Tayo Ikujuni