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Lagos Govt. reaffirms commitment to sustainable development

Fola Badmus8 months ago4 months ago05 mins

The Lagos State Government on Tuesday reaffirmed its readiness to partner with stakeholders to make Lagos a model of sustainable development in Africa. The State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu made this known at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) 23rd Chief S.I. Edu Memorial Lecture held at CIBN Centre, Victoria Island, adding that to make a meaningful impact; collaboration is essential as government policies alone will not suffice. “We need the private sector, civil society, and our academic institutions to join hands in building a more sustainable future. Investing in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly technologies not only protects our environment but also stimulates economic growth”, he said. The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, who represented the Governor, said the annual event serves as a crucial reminder of the need to harmonize economic aspirations with preserving the natural environment. He added that the 2025 theme speaks to the heart of a pressing challenge as the evidence of climate change is all around and poses significant threats to communities, especially in Lagos, a coastal city vulnerable to flooding and erosion. He said that Climate-positive growth entails integrating sustainability into every facet of economic planning and development, stressing that Lagos has implemented several key initiatives to drive this change. He explained that the Lagos State Energy Master Plan aims to create a stable environment for investment and expand renewable energy policies, carefully considering factors such as energy access, affordability, environmental impacts, and investment needs. He said complementing the aforementioned is the Lagos Integrated Energy Resource Plan, a comprehensive blueprint for the State’s energy initiatives, adding that this plan sets ambitious goals, which include the provision of a reliable and sustainable power supply as well as significantly improving electricity supply to critical public infrastructure. He explained that the Lagos Renewable Energy Transformation Project is actively working to create a cleaner and more secure energy future for the state by leveraging innovative renewable energy solutions and enhancing energy efficiency across the board. He said these initiatives have resulted in a demonstrable increase in solar energy adoption in the past few years, showcasing the commitment to clean and a sustainable urban planning initiative. Examples, according to him, include the development of green spaces in previously underutilized areas, which have also contributed to a healthier environment. Sanwo-Olu added that the transformation of the dumpsite at Olawale Dawodu Road in the Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA into a 5-A-side Astro-Turf Football pitch, consisting of parking and open space for recreation, has helped mitigate the urban heat. He said the legacy of Chief S.L. Edu reminds everyone that environmental stewardship is a responsibility everyone shares; as such, there is a need to empower young people with the knowledge and tools to become active participants in building a greener future. He added that this could involve supporting environmental clubs in schools, organising community clean-up drives, or promoting educational campaigns on sustainable practices. The Governor stated further that there is a need to prioritize environmental education and community engagement for the young people who are the custodians of tomorrow to understand the value of conservation and sustainability.

Ondo Governor sacks commissioners, special advisers

Fola Badmus8 months ago8 months ago01 mins

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has dissolved the State Executive Council with immediate effect. Aiyedatiwa, however, exempted two members of the cabinet from the dissolution “due to the critical nature of their duties.” A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, listed the two cabinet members as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac. The statement directed all affected cabinet members to hand over all government properties in their care to the accounting officers of their respective ministries. Aiyedatiwa thanked the EXCO members for their service and contributions to the development of the state under his administration and wished them well in their future endeavours.

Kwara employs 300 Youths, registers 270,000 Kwarans

Fola Badmus8 months ago8 months ago23 mins

The Kwara State Residents Registration Agency (KWASRRA) has so far employed about 300 youths and registered over 270,000 Kwarans in its continuous registration exercise. The Acting General Manager of KWASRRA, Mr. Tajudeen Jimoh stated this at the inter-ministerial press briefing, organized by the Kwara State Ministry of Communications. He disclosed that the mandate of the Agency which is to register all Kwara State residents is anchored on the target of registering three million Kwarans based on projections from the last population census, which puts the population of Kwara State at 2.3 million as at 2006. Mr. Jimoh highlighted the successes of the Agency for the period under review to include: registration of all civil servants and allocation of registration centres across the sixteen Local Government Areas of the State, the launch of KWASRRA website in order to make the registration seamless, hassle-free and less time consuming, delivery and distribution of SSID cards to their owners, and the ongoing registration of pensioners and students, which is recording steady progress. The Acting General Manager also disclosed plans by the Agency to open up the registration exercise to all residents soon. “The Agency shall open up the registration exercise to all residents of Kwara State as soon as relevant approval is gotten. “This move is aimed at ensuring that no resident is left out, and to meet the target of the exercise of registering three million Kwarans,” he said. “Among the successes already recorded by the Agency is the registration of 270,000 residents of Kwara State within five months of the registration exercise. “This figure is expected to rise sharply as more residents embrace the online registration option and as soon as the registration is opened to all residents,” he added.

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Planning permit: Lagos demands CCTV Cameras in six floors upward buildings

Fola Badmus8 months ago8 months ago03 mins

The Lagos State Government has said that it would henceforth demand the mandatory provision of CCTV cameras in buildings of six floors and above as a prerequisite for the issuance of Planning Permits. This was made known in Alausa on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide. According to the Commissioner, “Property owners will, as a requirement for Planning Permit, now be mandated to install CCTV cameras in all existing buildings of six floors and above along major roads in the state as well as in all proposed or under construction buildings of six floors and above anywhere in the state”. He stated further that the initiative would also cover all commercial buildings in Lagos State, which would equally be mandated to provide CCTV cameras as a requirement for their approvals. Olumide said that the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu approved the initiative to bring about enhanced security and balance public safety with physical planning considerations within the state. He disclosed that to ensure consistency and interoperability, the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), would establish standardised specifications for CCTV camera systems and direct regular maintenance and inspection schedules to ensure camera functionality. The Agency will also mandate property owners to always make the footage available to the state security agents on request. He enjoined all stakeholders to support the initiative, which is in tandem with the smart city ideals and the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda of the Lagos State Government as it is geared towards achieving a livable, organised and sustainable Lagos.

Marwa seeks more NASS support, defends N67.5B 2025 NDLEA budget

Fola Badmus8 months ago8 months ago08 mins

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) has expressed appreciation to the National Assembly especially the Senate and House Committees on Narcotic Drugs for their commitment to the nation’s fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking while he appealed for their continued support to enhance the capacity and capability of the Agency to deliver on its mandate. Marwa made the appeal on Monday 13th and Tuesday 14th January when he led his management team to defend the 2025 budget proposal of the Agency before the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs and Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics respectively. He equally thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unrelenting encouragement to the NDLEA. “I wish to first appreciate the honorable chairman, the deputy chairman, and distinguished members of this esteemed committee for your invaluable and consistent support throughout the 2024 fiscal year. This committee, under its able and dynamic chairman, has demonstrated remarkable courage and commitment towards the war against drug abuse. In particular, your effort towards the amendment of the NDLE Act is also highly appreciated. “And I respectfully ask your good offices to continue to assist in our area of critical needs during the appropriation process. Our commands across the federation are contending with significant challenges, particularly lack of accommodation. “I cannot overstate this matter because it all comes to my desk when you get these reports of attacks on our officers and so on and so forth, killing personnel and their families. So, we know that we trust that this esteemed committee will do its best. And we know that there are compelling demands from other MDAs, but the barracks project is critical to the operational efficiency and success of NDLEA. “I must not forget to seize this opportunity to also appreciate President Bola Tinubu for his continuing support and encouragement to the agency. I also wish to reaffirm the agency’s unwavering commitment to working collaboratively with the National Assembly, in particular this esteemed committee, to advance our shared vision of a drug-free Nigeria. With your support, we are confident in our ability to enhance our operations and fulfill our mandate of safeguarding the security of our nation”, Marwa stated in his remarks while pleading for budgetary provision for the ongoing barracks accommodation for the personnel of the agency to enhance their security, dedication and performance. In the budget proposal for 2025 fiscal year, the agency was allocated Sixty-Seven Billion Five Hundred and Twelve Million Five Hundred and Sixty-Four Thousand Sixty-Three Naira Eighty Kobo (N67, 512, 564, 063.80), with recurrent personnel cost taking N47, 159,240, 496.80; recurrent overhead N3, 384,332, 017.00 and capital expenditure N16, 968, 991, 550.00. He explained that the recurrent personnel cost reflects the nominal roll of the agency’s staff strength totaling over 14,038 officers, men and women, while the recurrent overhead cost covers the operational expenses of intelligence gathering, arrests, seizures, investigations and prosecutions. The NDLEA boss called for the enhancement of the N16 billion provided for capital expenditure, which has zero allocation for the ongoing barracks project component to enable the agency continue with the provision of secure accommodation for its workforce across the country. Justifying his plea, Marwa said “the agency faces growing challenges, including sophisticated drug cartels, drug abuse and inadequate critical infrastructure. To address these issues, NDLEA has embarked on reforms, including constructing barracks to accommodate its personnel, improve operational integrity and ensure security. Currently, many commands operate from rented facilities, which are inadequate for effective administration. Proper accommodation will enhance staff morale, ensure security, and strengthen the agency’s capacity to execute its mandate” In his remarks, House Committee Chairman on Narcotic Drugs, Hon Abass Adigun assured of their commitment to adequate funding to enhance NDLEA’s operational successes. “This committee recognizes the critical role the NDLEA plays in safeguarding our communities from the scourge of narcotics and illicit substances. As we engage in today’s deliberations, we remain committed to ensuring that public funds are allocated efficiently, with a focus on measurable outcomes, transparency, and accountability. I urge all participants to contribute thoughtfully as we work together to ensure the NDLEA is well-resourced to fulfill its vital mandate in the new year”, the lawmaker stated. Speaking in the same vein on Tuesday 14th January 2025, Senate Committee chairman on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo congratulated the agency for its outstanding performance in 2024. “We’re all witnesses to the good work you are doing and we are proud of your performance”, the committee chairman stated, assuring of more support to enable the agency function effectively in the new year.

Prerogative of Mercy: Sanwo-Olu pardons 52, commutes death sentences to life imprisonment

Fola Badmus8 months ago8 months ago03 mins

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently, and on the recommendations of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, approved the release of 52 inmates from various correctional facilities across the State and the commutal of six death row inmates to Life Imprisonment. According to a statement signed by Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, the order was for the immediate release of 35 inmates while others are to be released after serving additional terms of three – six months. According to him, the Prerogative of Mercy is in line with Mr. Governors’ powers under Section 212 (1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria (As amended) and the commitment of the present administration to decongest correctional facilities in Lagos State as part of the Justice Sector Reforms in the State. The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy in reaching its recommendations exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications brought before it in line with the applicable guidelines with information provided by the Authority of the correctional facilities, the nature of offence the inmate was convicted for, period of incarceration, age, health condition and the behavioural conduct of the inmate. Before their release, the correctional centres are to confirm that arrangements have been put in place for the rehabilitation and integration into the society of the convicted inmates recommended for release. While admonishing the inmates to be of good behaviour, the Commissioner said Mr. Governor’s release order is to be complied with after completion of the administrative process by the correctional facilities.

Alleged N33.8bn Fraud: EFCC presents four more witnesses against Saleh Mamman

Fola Badmus8 months ago8 months ago03 mins

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, January 13, 2025 presented four more witnesses in the ongoing trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja. Mamman is being prosecuted by the EFCC on a 12-count charge bordering on conspiracy to commit money laundering to the tune of N33,804,830,503.73 (Thirty-three Billion, Eight Hundred and Four Million, Eight Hundred and Thirty Thousand, Five Hundred and Three Naira, Seventy-three Kobo). At the Monday`s proceedings, prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, told the court that the EFCC was prepared to further prove its case with four more witnesses: PW4, 5, 6, and 7, whom he said were Compliance Officers at Zenith, UBA, GTB and Wema Banks, respectively. The witnesses are PW4 Mishelia R.B, PW5 Mayowa Itiku, PW6 Lily Marama and PW7 Oluwunmi Ogunloye. While being led in evidence by prosecuting counsel, the witnesses took turns to inform the court that they received correspondences respectively from the EFCC to provide details of account openings and statements in respect of ten business entities which are: Sami Court Resort Limited, Golden Bond Nigeria Limited, Samson Bitrus, Gurupche Business Enterprise, Shipikin Global Enterprises, Silverline Ventures, Breathable Investment Ltd, First Class Contraction Ltd, Spinhillls Biz International Ltd and Fulex Utility Concept Ltd. Oyedepo presented bundles of documents of those entities which the witnesses affirmed before the court that they emanated from their banks and were generated from their databases. After confirming the documents as their bank documents, the prosecuting counsel tendered them in evidence before the court. Justice Omotosho thereafter adjourned the matter till January 22, 23 and 24, 2025, for continuation of hearing.

Students protest: MAPOLY shuts down indefinitely

Fola Badmus8 months ago8 months ago01 mins

Authorities of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Abeokuta have announced the closure of the Polytechnic effective from Monday, 13th January, 2025, till further notice. The closure according to the School’s Head, Public Relations and Protocol, ‘yemi Ajibola, is to ensure safety of lives and properties owing to the protest by some students on the decision of the Management to verify their National Diploma results from their former schools. “Management expressed its zero tolerance to fake results from any quarters. “Consequently, students are advised to stay away from the campus in their own interests. “Parents and the general public are assured of timely updates as events unfold,” the statement read.