Flowerbud News

Author: Ibrahim Abusadiq

  • 2 dead after falling into diesel reservoir – LASEMA

    2 dead after falling into diesel reservoir – LASEMA

    By Flowerbud News

    The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) on Saturday confirmed the death of two men who accidentally fell into a diesel reservoir in the Oregun area of the state.

    The agency’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, who confirmed this in a statement, said the incident happened at the Ikosi- Oregun Road in Lagos.

    “Following distress calls received on the 767 and 112 emergency toll-free lines at 10.37 a.m., LASEMA activated its response team from the Command and Control Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.

    “Upon arrival at the scene by 10.47 a.m., it was discovered that two adult males had fallen into a diesel reservoir at the above-mentioned location.

    “Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the men accidentally fell into the diesel reservoir while working.

    “The second adult male, in an attempt to rescue the first, also fell into the reservoir,” he said.

    He said both victims were in severe conditions and were promptly transported to the hospital by the Lagos State Ambulance Service, after receiving first aid.

    “First aid was administered on the victims immediately after their rescue.

    “Both individuals were evacuated and transported to the hospital for further medical attention.

    “Unfortunately, despite all sustained medical efforts, they later died,” he said.

    He said the incident scene was being assessed by emergency responders to determine further necessary action in order to prevent similar occurrences,” he said.

    He added that the incident scene had been secured.

    NAN

  • FG, U.S. sign agreement on repatriation of $52.88m corruption proceeds

    FG, U.S. sign agreement on repatriation of $52.88m corruption proceeds

    By Flowerbud News

    The Federal Government and the U.S. Government have signed agreement for the repatriation of not less than 52.88 million dollars forfeited corruption proceeds to Nigeria.
    Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa, Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja,
    Ebienfa stated that the agreement was signed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr.
    He further stated that  signing of the agreement marked significant shared investment in Nigeria’s development and strengthened  partnership between the nations.
    According to him the Federal Government of Nigeria and the U.S. Government are pleased to announce an agreement to promptly repatriate approximately 52.88 million dollars in forfeited corruption proceeds.
    “These funds were forfeited to the U.S. as part of the Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative of the U.S. Department of Justice.
    “This marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Nigeria and the U.S to combat corruption and recover misappropriated assets.
    “Also, through court proceedings ending in 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s International Corruption Unit, and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation successfully forfeited various high-value assets.
    “These include the super yacht Galactica Star and prime real estate in California and New York.”
    He  explained that the forfeited assets were illegally acquired through funds linked to money laundering and conspiracy to bribe former Petroleum Resources Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke.
    He further stated that Nigerian authorities played a vital role by providing substantial assistance to the U.S. investigation.
    “Both nations emphasise the importance of responsible and effective use of these funds, incorporating mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability.
    “Under the agreement signed today, the recovered funds will be used to finance electrification projects in Nigeria and international efforts to combat terrorism.
    “The U.S. government remains steadfast in its commitment to combating corruption and money laundering.
    “Similarly, the Federal Government of Nigeria remains dedicated to promoting accountability and good governance, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in the fight against corruption.
    “Both governments reiterate their commitment to transparency and the responsible use of recovered assets to benefit the Nigerian people.”
    NAN
  • NERC transfers electricity oversight to Niger

    NERC transfers electricity oversight to Niger

    By Flowerbud News

    The  Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued an order to transfer regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Niger  to the State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NSERC).

    The commission in a statement on its X handle in Abuja on Friday said that the transfer  was in compliance with the Constitution   and the Electricity Act (EA) 2023 as Amended.

    The commission said that in accordance with the provisions of the EA 2023, it retains the role as a central regulator with regulatory oversight on the inter-state/international generation, transmission, supply, trading and system operations.

    It said that the EA also mandates any state that intends to establish and regulate intrastate electricity markets to deliver a formal notification of its processes and requests  to NERC to transfer regulatory authority over electricity operations to the its regulator.

    ”Based on this, the Government of Niger complied with the conditions precedent in the laws, duly notified NERC and requested for the transfer of regulatory oversight of the intrastate electricity market in the state.

    ”Following the request, NERC directed the Abuja Electricity Distribution (AEDC) to incorporate a subsidiary (AEDC SubCo) to assume responsibilities for intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in Niger  from the company, ”it said.

    The commission said that AEDC  should complete the incorporation of AEDC SubCo within 60 days from Jan. 10 and the sub -company shall apply for and obtain licence for the intrastate supply and distribution of electricity from NSERC, among other directives.

    It also directed Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc (IBEDC) to incorporate a subsidiary (IBEDC SubCo) to assume responsibilities for intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in Niger from IBEDC.

    NERC said, ”IBEDC shall complete the incorporation of IBEDC SubCo within 60 days from Jan. 10.

    ”The sub- company shall apply for and obtain licence for the intrastate supply and distribution of electricity from NSERC, among other directives,” it said.

    The commission directed that all transfers envisaged by this order be completed by July 9.

    NAN

  • NAFDAC adopts 5 strategic pillars to safeguard nation’s health

    NAFDAC adopts 5 strategic pillars to safeguard nation’s health

     

     

    By Flowerbud News

    Lagos:  The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control on Thursday said the agency will focus on five strategic pillars to further safeguard the nation’s health.

    (NAFDAC DG, Prof. Moji Adeyeye)

    Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC disclosed this at a news conference organised in Lagos to outline its focus for 2025.

    Adeyeye listed the pillars as strong governance and leadership, maternal, newborn and child health, institutionalisation of best practices, safety and quality of regulated products and monitoring of the supply chain.

    She said: “Reflection on the past seven years has brought into focus the many accomplishments that have been achieved in NAFDAC and so many others to be attained.

    (Ever caring;  Prof. Adeyeye, appreciates, rejoices with then retiring NAFDAC North West Zonal Director, Mrs Josephine Dayilim)

    “This realisation has sharpened my focus on how to strategically work towards continued strengthening of the regulatory system as a needed path toward safeguarding the health of the nation.”

    According to her, NAFDAC will continue to unlock the value chain through strengthening the industry with a focus on access to quality regulated products.

    She said that strong governance and leadership would ensure that its workforce stays highly motivated and disciplined, while training remains a premium for staff.

    The DG emphasised that the agency would pay more attention to the safety and quality of regulated products for maternal, newborn and child health and nutrition.

    She said this would help to prevent postpartum haemorrhage and maternal deaths and drastically reduce child morbidity.

    “Great emphasis will be placed on paediatric antimalarials and antibiotics.

    “Manufacturers will be incentivised to develop paediatric medicines and handheld toward achieving WHO prequalification,” she said.

    (Prof. Adeyeye in far away South Korea to strengthen collaboration for a better protection of the health of Nigerians)

    Adeyeye, however, noted that the agency was extremely under-staffed.

    “The number of staff that an agency has or should have depends on the population of the country because it is easier to regulate a country with one million than a country with 300 million people.

    (Prif. Adeyeye working hard to expand MAFDAC’s International collaboration and status)

    “I’m just giving an example based on our population; we are supposed to have nothing less than 10,000 staff; we have about 2,000 right now.

    (Prof Adeyeye formalising and Strengthening collaboration with local  sister agencies to enhance NAFDAC task of safeguarding health of Nigerians)

    (NAFDAC DG, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, in a loving pose with hubby, Senator Adeyeye, a sign of a stable, happy home and support – resulting in tremendous achievements and transformation in NAFDAC)

    “We burn candles on both ends, overstress ourselves because we have to safeguard the health of Nigerians.

    “We are not asking for 10,000 staff now; we are just asking for double or triple what we currently have,” she said. NAN

  • Tinubu celebrates NNPCL’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari at 60

    Tinubu celebrates NNPCL’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari at 60

    By Flowerbud News

    President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday congratulated Malam Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), on his 60th birthday on Jan. 8.

    The President commended Kyari’s diligence in transforming NNPCL into a profitable organisation, Mr Bayo Onanuga, his Spokesman, said in a statement on Tuesday.

    The President said the NNPCL under Kyari’s leadership recorded notable achievements, including the resuscitation of two refineries, an increase in domestic natural gas consumption and a boost in oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.

    The President applauded Kyari’s dedication to service and professionalism at the NNPC, OPEC and as the first Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL.

    He said “Kyari is a shining example and an embodiment of the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “I commend his commitment to creating new opportunities and ensuring the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s energy sector.”

    He prayed to Almighty Allah to continue to grant Kyari sound health, wisdom and strength to serve the nation while mentoring the next generation of energy sector leaders.

    NAN

  • Zulum approves renaming of Borno State University to Kashim Ibrahim University

    Zulum approves renaming of Borno State University to Kashim Ibrahim University

    By Flowerbud News

    The Borno  Executive Council has approved the renaming of Borno State University (BOSU) to Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, in honour of Sir Kashim Ibrahim, the first Governor of Northern Nigeria.

    The decision was taken during the first council meeting of 2025, chaired by Gov. Babagana Zulum in Maiduguri.

    Speaking to newsmen on the development, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, said that the renaming would take effect after the necessary legislative amendments and notifications to regulatory authorities.

    “Council approved that Borno State University shall be renamed Kashim Ibrahim University.

    “This decision is subject to legislative processes by the State Assembly to amend the law establishing the university and actions by the Ministry of Education to inform relevant bodies such as the NUC and the JAMB,” Tar said.

    He said that the council approved a comprehensive programme for street naming and house numbering in Maiduguri town and other urban areas as part of the state’s urban renewal efforts.

    Tar explained that the initiative would involve collaboration with stakeholders, including traditional rulers and federal agencies such as the Nigerian Postal Service.

    “Council decided that relevant MDAs will work with stakeholders to develop a naming and numbering template.

    “This will ensure that updated names and numbers are reflected on platforms like Google Maps and public records to enhance urban planning and governance,” he added.

    Earlier while addressing the council members, Zulum expressed appreciation for their commitment and outlined plans to intensify recovery efforts and implement impactful projects in 2025.

    “In 2024, my administration made significant progress, and I am committed to achieving even more this year.

    “Our focus will remain on post-conflict recovery, urban renewal, and the improvement of citizens’ welfare,” Zulum said.

    The meeting also featured a valedictory session in honour of the outgoing Head of Service, Barrister Malam Fannami, who is set to retire later this month.

    The council lauded his dedication and contributions to the state’s development.

    NAN

  • Yusuf urges FG to reduce 2025 Hajj fare

    Yusuf urges FG to reduce 2025 Hajj fare

    By Flowerbud News

    Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State has urged the Federal Government to reduce the 2025 Hajj fare to enable intending pilgrims to perform the exercise.

    The governor said the call was imperative in view of the economic challenges being faced by the citizens.

    This is contained in a statement by his media aide, Sanusi Bature, on Tuesday in Kano.

    Yusuf stated this at an event organised by the state Pilgrims Welfare Board, to refund money remitted by the Saudi Arabian authorities due to the power outage experienced during the 2023 Hajj exercise.

    He commended the Saudi Arabian Government for the gesture, and promised to send an Appreciation Letter to the Saudi Kingdom through its Consulate in Kano.

    While commending the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for its prudence and timely refund, Yusuf lauded the pilgrims board for the successful conduct of the 2024 Hajj, and urged it to sustain the feat.

    Yusuf, who visited Saudi Arabia and performed the Lesser Hajj few weeks ago, said the state had commenced preparations for the 2025 Hajj, to identiy areas that needed further intervention.

    The statement also quoted Aminu Abdulsalam, the state Deputy Governor and Head of the 2024 Kano State Hajj Delegation, as commending the governor for his support to the pilgrims board.

    The Director-General of the board, Laminu Danbaffa, said that N375 million refund was disbursed to pilgrims for the 2023 Hajj exercise.

    NAN

  • Troops neutralize suspected killers of 4 soldiers in Rivers

    Troops neutralize suspected killers of 4 soldiers in Rivers

    By Flowerbud News

    The Nigerian Army has announced that its troops have shot dead two suspects accused of killing four soldiers on protection duty in Rivers.

    Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, spokesman of the Nigerian Army 6 Division in Port Harcourt, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

    He revealed that the unidentified gang members were neutralised by troops of 5 Battalion during a raid on their hideout in Kalaogbokolo, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers.

    “The gang killed four soldiers and abducted two Korean expatriates working for Daewoo Nigeria Limited on Dec. 12, 2023.

    “Two of the gang members were apprehended during the operation but were neutralised after attempting to escape into the bush following a lengthy chase by the soldiers,” he stated.

    Danjuma explained that the suspects were captured following credible intelligence that revealed their return to the community from their hideouts.

    He said that troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, a Fabrique National rifle, and a pump action shotgun.

    Other items seized included two locally made rifles, three AK-47 magazines, three rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition.

    “The Nigerian Army reiterates that, regardless of how long it takes, criminals involved in such heinous acts will face severe consequences for their actions.

    “We assure citizens of the division’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, and we encourage them to continue providing actionable intelligence on the activities of criminal gangs,” he added.

    NAN

  • NAFDAC seals Chinese supermarket in Abuja, begins investigation of products

    NAFDAC seals Chinese supermarket in Abuja, begins investigation of products

    (NAFDAC Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye)

     

    By Flowerbud News

    Abuja:  The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has sealed a Chinese supermarket for allegedly selling goods labelled in Chinese language without  proper notification.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the supermarket is situated at Azba Mall, 2 Durban Street, Wuse 2, Abuja.

    Speaking with newsmen after the exercise, NAFDAC Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Shaba Mohammed, said that the agency got ‘credible information’ about the supermarket.

    He said that the information was that all the items being sold at the supermarket were labelled in Chinese language, a situation which, he said, violated NAFDAC regulations.

    Mohammed, also the Chairman, Federal Task Force on Counterfeit, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods with the agency, said upon getting the information, NAFDAC quickly swung into action to find out the situation of things.

    He said that the agency would carry out investigation on why the over 90 per cent of the goods in the supermarket were labelled in foreign language and how they got into the country.

    The director also said that some of the affected goods had expired and that they were still on the supermarket’s shelves.

    “The supermarket was sealed for violating NAFDAC regulations; investigation will surely go on about this supermarket; we will also need to go to its warehouse in order to stop them from selling some products.

    “The whole information about this supermarket just go to us; if we had know the information from the beginning, we would have taken regulatory action we just took against it now.

    “Selling items in foreign language in a country is a violation of our law; if you must sell anything either in Arabic, Chinese and French, you must have English translation of it.

    “More than 90 per cent of the goods sold in the supermarket are in Chinese language. You might find some Nigerians patronising the supermarket; they should be able to read about some of the items on the shelves.

    “Some of these items have also expired. Even if they are giving global listing to import, they ought to be in English language.

    “This supermarket cannot present to NAFDAC a document through which the items were approved in foreign language.

    “This is not acceptable and that is why we have to seal the supermarket; we will invite the owner for further investigation before we can conclude on the case,” he said.

    The director said that if the supermarket was found culpable of violating NAFDAC regulations, punishable action would be taken against it.

    “It is not every case we charge to court; we will take regulatory action against the supermarket, which may be an administrative action.

    “Before any certification is given by NAFDAC, it would have visited the site/shop for goods storage and distribution practice.

    “NAFDAC, upon its visit, will ensure that the facilities are in accordance with NAFDAC regulations,” he said.

    Mohammed also stated that the supermarket might have bypassed NAFDAC in the process of bringing some of the goods into the country.

    “NAFDAC will not see all these items at the port with every description in foreign language and allow them in; they would have been intercepted immediately,” he said.NAN/Flowerbudnews

    About Flowerbudnews

    Established by Hon.  Biola Lawal, a former Acting Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), FLOWERBUDNEWS is a consortium of active veteran journalists, experienced Multimedia broadcast experts and image makers. We are drawn from both public and private sectors of Nigeria’s media Industry with a common  determination to enhance the practice of responsible journalism..

    Lawal, on his part, is also a former Honourable Commissioner for Information,Youth, Sports and Culture of Osun state, his home state.

    Biola Lawal had also successfully served two tenures as Press Secretary to the ECOMOG Force Commander in Liberia during the Liberian and Sierra Leone Civil wars. He was an outstanding NAN Defence and War Correspondent for many years.

    The retired NAN Acting Boss holds the honour of being the only journalist that served two terms on the ECOMOG international assignment due to his high professionalism and decency.

    He is a Co-Author of the book; ECOMOG, A BOLD ATTEMPT AT REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING! Edited Mrs Magaret Voght.  The book remains the most. factual, detailed and authentic book on the ECOWAS sponsored ECOMOG Military operation.