NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
NESREA shuts 25 facilities over  environmental violations
Entertainment

NESREA shuts 25 facilities over  environmental violations

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Facilities

By Doris Esa
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement  Agency (NESREA), has shut down 25 facilities in four states of the Federation over  non compliance to  environmental regulations.

Mrs Nwamaka Ejiofor, Assistant Director (Press) in NESREA, stated this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

She said that the facilities which cut across different sectors were shut down in Anambra, Enugu, Bayelsa, and Rivers for various environmental crimes.

Ejiofor said these included refusal to conduct  Environmental Impact Assessment before commencement of project, Environmental Audit, and  lack of functional effluent treatment plant, among others.

She said the sealed facilities included, Rugal  Pharmaceutical, Emene Industrial Layout, Enugu, China Communication Construction Company (CCCC), Owo yard, Enugu, Hardis and Dromedas, Umunya, Anambra State, and Pinnatech Engi Asphalt Plant, Awkuzu, Anambra.

Others are China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Obogoro Road, Swali, Yenagoa, Bayelsa, Megastar Technical and Construction Company Limited,  Imiringi Road, Yenagoa, Bayelsa and Multi Plan Nigeria Ltd., Okuru-Ama, Trans-Amadi Industrial Layout, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, among others.

Prof. Innocent Barikor, the Director-General of NESREA, enjoined operators to adhere to the provisions of environmental laws in their operations.

Barikor said that the agency would  continue to carry out such enforcement exercises to safeguard the environment, and serve as deterrent to facility operators. (NAN(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Kano targets 3.9m children for polio vaccination in June
Health

Kano targets 3.9m children for polio vaccination in June

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Vaccination

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

The Kano State government has set a target to vaccinate 3.9 million children under the age of five during the June 2025 Outbreak Response (OBR) campaign.

Dr Nasir Mahmoud, Director-General of the Kano State Primary Healthcare Management Board, announced this during a media dialogue on Thursday in Kano.

Mahmoud explained that the campaign aligned with the national strategy to eradicate polio and maintain Nigeria’s polio-free certification.

He said that the vaccination drive became necessary due to the recent resurgence of the type 2 poliovirus in parts of the state.

According to him, factors such as community resistance, poor data reporting, and insecurity have contributed to the virus’s re-emergence by hindering previous immunisation efforts.

“Ungogo Local Government Area recorded the highest level of non-compliance during the May 2025 campaign.

“To improve vaccination coverage, local government areas are now ranked monthly based on performance,” he said.

Mahmoud reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to eradicating polio by December 2025 and pledged to significantly reduce the maternal mortality rate within the same timeframe, describing both goals as top priorities.

He stressed the importance of collaboration with traditional rulers and the 44 local government chairmen to overcome challenges.

Mr Rahma Mohammed, UNICEF Chief of Field Office in Kano, highlighted that surveillance conducted in 2025 detected the virus in Warawa, Bunkure, Kano Municipal, and Nasarawa Local Government Areas.

“This is unacceptable and must be halted. Polio remains a highly infectious disease that spreads rapidly and knows no borders,” he warned.

Mohammed emphasised that even a single case of polio anywhere posed a threat to children everywhere and called for coordinated efforts to contain the outbreak.

He urged all levels of government, traditional rulers, and the media to intensify awareness campaigns and ensure full vaccination coverage, especially in high-risk areas.

The UNICEF official reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s polio eradication efforts and called for the timely release of counterpart funding and stronger supervision of immunisation campaigns.

He also urged the government to declare a public health emergency and increase media engagement to counter misinformation about the vaccine.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Nigeria condoles India over tragic plane crash
General News

Nigeria condoles India over tragic plane crash

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Crash
By Fortune Abang
The Federal Government has condoled the Indian government over the tragic crash of Air India Flight-171 in Ahmedabad.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this in a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of the
Ministry.

Tuggar said, “Nigeria expresses profound sorrow and extends its heartfelt condolences to the government and people of India over the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025.

“This devastating incident which claimed the lives of over 290 individuals has left the global community in mourning.

“Nigeria stands in solidarity with India during this period of immense grief and unfortunate loss.

“While initial reports indicate no Nigerian citizen was aboard the flight, the Nigeria High Commission in New Delhi remains in close contact with Indian authorities to verify this information and provide consular assistance where necessary.

“In this moment of shared sorrow, Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to global aviation safety and supports the call for thorough investigation into the crash with a view to preventing  such tragedies in the future.”

The minister further commiserated with the families of the bereaved and all those affected by this tragic incident. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
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Rail transport on Warri-Itakpe corridor safe, operational – NRC
General News

Rail transport on Warri-Itakpe corridor safe, operational – NRC

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Train

By Chiazo Ogbolu

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) says the rail transport on Warri-Itakpe (WITS) corridor is safe and operational.

The Ag. Deputy Director, Public Relations, NRC, Mr Callistus Unyimadu, said this, in a statement, in Lagos.

“The attention of the NRC has been drawn to a widely circulated social media massage warning the public to avoid train travel, particularly along Warri – Itakpe rail corridor.

“The message, accompanied by a short video showing removed rail clips, falsely claims that rail transport is currently unsafe and urges passengers to cancel travel plans.

“We wish to categorically state that this information is misleading and unfounded,” he said.

Unyimadu noted that the identified incident, which involved the temporary removal of some rail clips at a specific location on the corridor, was promptly detected during routine inspection and was immediately rectified by NRC maintenance team.

“All necessary safety and operational protocols were strictly followed to ensure that no threat was posed to passengers or the integrity of the train operations.

“Indeed, the Warri-Itakpe train (WITS) has successfully passed through affected section without any incident, further confirming the safety of the route,” he said.

He pointed out that the NRC remained committed to the highest standards of safety and security in all its operations.

He added that NRC tracks and rolling stock are under constant surveillance and maintenance and NRC personnel are fully equipped to address any issues that may arise in real time.

“We, therefore, urge the public to disregard the viral message and continue to use our train services with full confidence.

“Any attempt to spread fear or discourage the use of rail transport undermines the progress being made in the sector and should be condemned.

“Train services on the Warri-Itakpe corridor and all other NRC corridors remain safe, reliable and fully operational.

“For official update and travel advisory, we encourage passengers to rely only on verified NRC communication channels,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joe Idika

FRSC lauds FMC Abuja for taking action against alleged negligent staff members
Health

FRSC lauds FMC Abuja for taking action against alleged negligent staff members

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Response

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Federal Road Safety Corps,(FRSC), has commended the management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Jabi, Abuja for taking decisive action against staff alleged to have neglected an accident victim.

The FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed said this in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer, (CPEO), Olusegun Ogungbemide on Tuesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the victim had been rescued from a crash scene within the nation’s capital by a good Samaritan and was taken to FMC Abuja for proper treatment.

Mohammed emphasised the imperatives of timely and adequate medical attention in reducing mortality rates and improving outcomes for crash victims.

He called on all healthcare providers to adopt a more proactive approach in responding to emergencies and saving lives of rescued crash victims.

He also condemned the several rejection of crash victims from FRSC operatives by hospitals.

He revealed that the National Road Traffic Regulations (2024) specifically frowns at hospitals that reject crash victims.

This, he said was with detailed provision of adequate punishment for negligence, or any form of misconduct that compromised established regulations on handling of crash victims.

“We urge healthcare providers to prioritise welfare of crash victims and uphold the highest standards of professionalism to save their lives,”he maintained.

The FRSC boss reiterated the Corps’ commitment to collaborate with healthcare providers and other stakeholders to enhance road safety and save lives.

“By working together, we can reduce incidences of crashes fatalities to the barest minimum, and improve response to emergencies,”he added.

The corps marshal commended the good Nigerian who single handedly carried out the rescue of the victim.

Mohammed called on citizens to emulate the sense of patriotism by promoting a culture of safety, discipline, and professionalism to make a difference and save more lives.

NAN reports that the FMC management said eight of its staff members—including four doctors, two nurses, and two attendants—are currently under investigation for alleged professional negligence.

The hospital management told newsmen that any staff member found guilty of dereliction of duty would be held accountable.

The hospital’s Head of Clinical Services, Bioku Muftau, confirmed that the accident victims allegedly abandoned by hospital personnel—featured in a viral video circulating on social media—have been treated and discharged.

Muftau said the patient with a head injury, who appeared in the video and drew widespread public concern, was stabilised and discharged the same day he arrived at the facility.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

WHO declares Mpox public health emergency concern
Defence/Security

WHO declares Mpox public health emergency concern

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mpox

By Franca Ofili

The World Health Organisation (WHO), says the Mpox upsurge has continued to meet the criteria of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) set forth in the International Health Regulations (IHR).

Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General said this in a statement.

Ghebreyesus said  the announcement followed the fourth meeting of the IHR emergency committee regarding the upsurge of mpox, held on June 5.

According to him, the committee, recognising progress in the capacity to respond in certain countries, advised the WHO boss that the event continues to constitute a PHEIC.

He said that it was based on the continuing rise in number of cases, including a recent increase in West Africa, and likely ongoing undetected transmission in some countries beyond the African continent

“Ongoing operational challenges in responding to the event, including concerning surveillance and diagnostics, as well as a lack of funding, make prioritising response interventions challenging and require continued international support,” he said.

Ghebreyesus concurred with the committee’s advice and issued the committee’s revised temporary recommendations to Member States experiencing mpox outbreaks.

He said  the recommendations will guide countries’ efforts to prevent and control spread of the disease.

According to him, the full report of the fourth meeting will be issued in the third week of June.

“The upsurge of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its spread to neighbouring countries was first determined to be PHEIC by Ghebreyesus on Aug. 14, 2024.

“Since then, the  committee has met on three additional occasions, each time, advising the director general that the event continues to constitute a PHEIC,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

Eid-el-Kabir: CP orders visibility policing, intelligence-led raids in FCT
Defence/Security , General News

Eid-el-Kabir: CP orders visibility policing, intelligence-led raids in FCT

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Raids

By Monday Ijeh

The Commissioner of Police (CP) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Ajao Adewale, has ordered heightened visibility policing and sustained intelligence-led raids on black spots in the territory ahead of the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh,  disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.

Adeh said that the CP gave the order during a strategic security meeting with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and heads of Tactical Teams in the command.

Adewale said the meeting was to ensure a safe and secured FCT ahead of the forthcoming Inspector General of Police (I-G) Award Night, the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and the June 12 Democracy Day commemoration.

He said the focus of the meeting was to fine-tune operational deployments, reinforcement of professionalism and accountability in policing efforts during the period.

“You must strengthen security within your respective Areas of Responsibility (AORs) and ensure heightened visibility policing, particularly at all strategic entry and exit points into the city.

“This is in anticipation of the arrival of very senior police officers and other dignitaries from across the country for the I-G’s event,”he said.

The CP ordered the deployment of Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) teams to sweep worship and recreational centres ahead of expected events.

He directed the senior police officers to sustain intelligence-led raids on identified black spots known for illicit drug activities in a professional manner, devoid of abuse.

The CP warned the officers against any form of extortion and urged the officers to be smartly dressed, disciplined, and courteous in their interactions with the public.

“You must not be involved in civil disputes, particularly land-related matters and your continuous raids on identified spots must not serve as a cover for harassment or illegal financial demands.

“You must reinforce the standing order that bail is free; any officer found requesting money for bail will be dealt with in accordance with established disciplinary procedures,”the CP said.

He ordered the DPOs to ensure strict supervision and accountability of all personnel under their command, adding that searching of mobile phones without appropriate legal authority was prohibited.

The CP ordered all officers to be camera-friendly, approachable, and uphold the image of the force and ensure swift and efficient response to distress calls.

He ordered crackdown on vehicles bearing fake or fraudulently acquired diplomatic number plates and urged the DPOs to initiate youth engagement programme.

Adewale said the idea was to foster close collaboration with local communities to promote community policing and crime prevention. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Bayo Sekoni

Suspected employment fraudster hands self to EFCC
Defence/Security

Suspected employment fraudster hands self to EFCC

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Suspect
By Isaac Aregbesola
A suspected employment fraudster, Idris Adamu, has handed himself over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Gombe State over alleged impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.

EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Oyewale explained that there was a mild drama at the EFCC Gombe Zonal Directorate, when the middle-aged man walked into the office premises and reported himself over the alleged offences.

He said that the self-confessed suspect cited the fear of the EFCC for his action.

“The suspect, Idris Adamu, walked into the office of the EFCC at about 1300hrs and requested to see the Acting Zonal Director, Deputy Commander of the EFCC (DCE), Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad.

“He said he wanted to confess some hidden truths about the crimes he had committed in the past,“ he said.

According to him, while at the Directors office, the suspect said,” I came to repent of my sins and to confess to the EFCC.

“In the past, I have obtained the aggregate sum of N9 million through my bank account from different individuals in the guise of offering them employment opportunities in Federal Government agencies which was false.

“I have changed but I am afraid of the EFCC,“ he quoted the suspect as saying.

Oyewale said the acting zonal director after listening to his confession, thanked him for speaking to the EFCC.

According to him, Sa’ad therefore, directed that the self-confessed suspect be taken to the investigation department for a thorough investigation of the case. (NAN)(www.nannnews.ng)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

Jarigbe reaffirms commitment, highlights achievements
Politics

Jarigbe reaffirms commitment, highlights achievements

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Landmarks

By Cecilia Odey

Sen. Jarigbe Agom, representing Cross River North, has reiterated his dedication to fulfilling his campaign promises, emphasising infrastructure development, education, and youth empowerment as his core achievements.

Jarigbe made the remarks during an interview with the Cross River Journalists Forum (CROSSJOF) in Abuja on Sunday.

Speaking about his legislative performance and development initiatives, Jarigbe stated,
“I believe I’ve done well.

“I’ve kept to my promises and delivered on the mandates given to me by my constituents. It’s still a work in progress. I won’t beat my chest, but I’ve remained consistent.”

The Senator highlighted several projects included in the 2024 and 2025 national budgets benefiting the five Local Government Areas in his senatorial district.

“Notable accomplishments include the construction of classroom blocks, provision of medical supplies, installation of solar-powered street lighting, and the rehabilitation of rural roads.

“Every ward in my district has benefitted.

“Even health centres that lacked basic equipment such as thermometers and glucometers now have these essential medical supplies.

“The Boki Road and the road to my village, Ibil, have seen significant improvements,” he said.

On youth development, Jarigbe revealed that bursaries, grants, and international scholarships had been secured for his constituents through partnerships with agencies like the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

“Some of our young people are currently studying in the UK and Europe through these opportunities,” he added.

He also noted ongoing empowerment programmes designed to support small business owners across the district, rolled out in phases to ensure inclusivity.

As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Gas, Jarigbe said he had leveraged his position to attract development projects beyond his committee’s direct scope.

“For example, I successfully lobbied for a Rural Electrification Agency (REA) project in Anagbo, even though REA isn’t under my committee. It was necessary for the community,” he explained.

Addressing concerns over limited federal appointments from Cross River State in the current administration, Jarigbe acknowledged the President’s sole discretion in such matters.

“I have made recommendations, but the President has the final say. Being in the opposition party limits what I can do,” he stated.

The Senator also discussed bills he had sponsored, including the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre and a Federal University of Technology for the district.

“The Medical Centre Bill has passed its second reading and undergone public hearing. Unfortunately, the University of Technology Bill was not assented to by the President,” he revealed.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the creation of Ogoja State, saying the necessary legislative groundwork had already been laid.

Asked about his political ambitions for 2027, Jarigbe emphasised that his best campaign strategy remained delivering on promises.

“The best way to campaign is to fulfil your promises. Let the people see your work,” he said.

He also dismissed claims that the 10th Senate operated as a rubber stamp for the executive, insisting senators made independent decisions.

“We debate and deliberate. I don’t act to please the President; I vote based on merit,” he stressed.

Responding to public criticism about lawmakers’ salaries, Jarigbe clarified that their earnings were regulated by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

“Our salaries are not as outrageous as people think. In fact, it’s challenging to accommodate all visitors I receive daily with what I earn,” he said.

The Senator debunked rumours of defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“I was elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and I remain loyal to my people in the PDP. I don’t believe in switching parties for personal interest,” he declared.

He ended by urging his constituents to remain hopeful and assured them that his office would continue working to deliver the dividends of democracy.

“We will continue to do more,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

COO/AMM
=======

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

FG completes 565 water projects in 2 years — Minister
Agriculture

FG completes 565 water projects in 2 years — Minister

233 total views today

Projects

By Tosin Kolade
The Federal Government says it has completed and inaugurated 565 water supply schemes, three multipurpose dams, four major irrigation projects, and several sanitation facilities within the last two years.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

Utsev explained that these achievements were part of efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6).

He noted that the ministry’s interventions aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in boosting agriculture and ensuring food and water security.

According to him, the government has inaugurated the Rafin Yashin Dam in Niger State, Odo-Ape Hydropower Dam in Kogi, and Amla Dam in Benue.

”These projects are expected to support irrigation, enhance electricity generation, and promote agro-industrial development”.

He also announced the successful concessioning of the 40MW Kashimbila Hydropower Plant in Taraba, and the integrated Agro-Allied Cargo Airport, which generated more than N7.1 billion as commencement fee for the first five years into the federal concession account.

On irrigation, the minister disclosed that four projects which include the Bakalori and Dadin-Kowa schemes in Zamfara and Gombe States, respectively, providing thousands of hectares of irrigated farmlands for dry-season farming have been completed.

”Two micro-irrigation projects have also been completed in Oyo and Jigawa to support smallholder farmers,” he said.

Utsev also disclosed that four major water projects have been completed in Jigawa, Yobe, and the FCT, while three others in Gombe and Yobe were already 90 per cent completed.

”Through collaboration with states and partners, 565 water supply schemes were constructed under PEWASH, SURWASH, and the AfDB programmes, serving over 450,000 people,” he added.

He also announced that 40 additional Local Government Areas (LGAs) have attained Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, bringing the total to 142 across the country.

”We have constructed 159 sanitation facilities in 23 states and developed advocacy jingles in five languages, reaching more than 25 million Nigerians,” he said.

The minister further revealed that 14 dams and several irrigation projects were near completion across Plateau, Enugu, Ekiti, Oyo, and Kwara States, while more than 100 new water supply projects were awarded in 2024.

”The ministry has also commenced the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) Project in 20 states to modernise existing infrastructure and explore hydropower generation,” he added.

He emphasised efforts to revitalise River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) by partnering with the private sector and state governments.

”We have leased 4,429 hectares of farmland to commercial farmers and developed irrigation infrastructure for 154,000 hectares, creating jobs for more than 1.6 million farmers.

”Other notable agency activities include issuing 24 water use licenses by the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission, training of 1,377 youths in plumbing and drilling by the National Water Resources Institute.

”We also have the publication of the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency,” the minister revealed.

Utsev said the ministry plans to complete 11 new projects in 2025, roll out school and public sanitation initiatives, and develop a National Framework for Flood Insurance.

”We will continue to work towards food security, job creation, and economic growth through sustainable water management,” he added.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu, development partners, state governments, and the media for their support and reiterated the ministry’s commitment to delivering on its mandate. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Nick Nicholas/Deborah Coker

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