Category: General News

NUF urges FG to decisively tackle insecurity from all fronts

The Ndigbo Unity Forum (NUF), a global pan-Igbo socio-political organization, has urged Federal Government to decisively tackle insecurity from all fronts, using all available and futuristic means possible.

The Chairman of NUF, Chief Augustine Chukwudum, made the call on Thursday in Enugu while examining the heightened level of insecurity all over the country.

Chukwudum lamented worsening rate of insecurity following school children kidnapped and ransom demanded from their poor parents who are struggling to provide meal for their families in the current harsh economy.

According to him, insecurity has become a gold mine as few people are feeding fat from it due to years of non robust investment in the sector.

“Insecurity has come to be breaking news each day,” he said.

The chairman noted that it was time to invest massively in conventional, emerging and futuristic military hardwares and latest technologies to tackle the country’s embarrassing insecurity head long.

“NUF calls on President Bola Tinubu to do the needful by matching his words with actions not only condemnation of insurgency and banditry.

“President Tinubu should direct security agency to deal harshly with those non state actors perpetrating insecurity across the country immediately.

“We call on Federal Government to create enable environment for our youths to be engaged in productive ventures, this will help in eradicate crime to barest minimum as well,” he said.

The chairman called on state governors to obey Supreme Court judgement that gives local government areas full autonomy.

He said, “This move will help in bringing democratic dividends to the people at the grassroot as the state governors are expected to do the needful.

“NUF also renew it demand that President Tinubu should remove any state governor who refuse to comply. Such governor must be charged for treasonable offence for not obeying the Supreme Court.”

Stakeholders, firm call for reforms to strengthen professionalism, transparency in estate sector

Golden Land Estate Ventures Limited and stakeholders in real estate sector have called for urgent reforms aimed at strengthening professionalism, transparency, and investor confidence in Nigeria’s real estate sector.

The call was made in a communiqué issued on Monday in Enugu after the Golden Land Estate Ventures Limited 2026 Mid-Year Seminar/Luncheon, held on Friday, July 3, at Wendy’s Place, Onitsha.

The 2026 Mid-Year Seminar/Luncheon was theme: “Next-Level Real Estate Practices.”

The event brought together real estate developers, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), realtors, marketers, investors, and other stakeholders in the South-East to examine emerging trends, industry challenges, and practical strategies for repositioning the sector for sustainable growth.

The communiqué said that after extensive deliberations, participants unanimously adopted the following resolutions, which included: stronger government action against multiple sale of land.

“Participants urged the Federal, State, and Local Governments to strengthen land administration policies and enforce stringent sanctions against communities and individuals involved in the fraudulent sale of the same parcel of land to multiple buyers.

“Such practices have continued to undermine investor confidence, increase land-related litigation, and discourage genuine investment in the sector,” it said.

The communiqué also noted that participants advocated for promotion of professionalism and healthy competition.

“The participants at the seminar emphasised that competition within the real estate industry should be driven by professionalism, innovation, quality service delivery, and integrity rather than unhealthy rivalry, misinformation, or actions capable of tarnishing the reputation of fellow practitioners.

“Industry leaders were encouraged to foster collaboration that will promote collective growth and public confidence,” it said.

The communiqué said that the participants urged real estate sector practitioners to uphold honesty and transparency in client relations.

“Participants reaffirmed that honesty remains the foundation of sustainable real estate practice.

“Realtors were urged to desist from making false claims, exaggerating property values, misrepresenting estate locations or approvals, or giving unrealistic assurances simply to secure transactions.

“Clients should be provided with accurate, verifiable, and complete information before making investment decisions,” it said.

The communiqué further called for effective regulation against overselling and delayed allocation.

“The seminar called on Real Estate CEOs and Developers to institute effective internal controls to eliminate the overselling or double allocation of plots.

“Developers should also ensure prompt allocation of purchased lands and timely issuance of all necessary documentation.

“Efficient service delivery, participants noted, is essential to maintaining customer trust and enhancing the credibility of the industry,” it said.

On call to action, the statement noted that participants called on government agencies, industry regulators, professional bodies, community leaders, developers, and practitioners to work collaboratively.

It called on all stakeholders to work collaboratively to establish a transparent, accountable, and investment-friendly real estate environment that protects property buyers and promotes sustainable national development.

Golden Land Estate Ventures Limited also reaffirmed its commitment to championing ethical business practices, professional excellence, continuous capacity development, and responsible real estate investment in Nigeria.

The communiqué was issued and signed by Comrade Damian Ogudike and Mr Ikechukwu Eze, who are directors on behalf of other directors of Golden Land Estate Ventures Limited.

Mrs Amaka Dim from Exotic Landlady Estate and Miss Blessing Anene of BuildWise Solution Centre Estate, who were resource persons in the seminar, also drafted and signed the communiqué as well.

NANS issues 4-day ultimatum to South African business interests to evacuate Nigeria

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the apex students governing body, has issued four days ultimatum to South African business interests to evacuate Nigeria.

This is contained in a statement issued on Monday in Enugu by Comrade Bestman Okereafor, NANS National Executive Director, Cooperate and Private Sectors Engagement.

The statement said that after the expiration of the ultimatum, South African business interests would face full wrath of the over 43.1 million Nigerian students scattered in the nooks and crannies of the country.

“The attention of the apex students governing body, NANS, has been drawn to continuous attacks, intimidation and subsequent chase of law abiding, peaceful and hardworking Nigerians and other Africans from South Africa.

“As the biggest students body in Africa, we are giving South African business interests four days to evacuate our beloved country, Nigeria.

“The reason for this action is simple. South Africans cannot continue to oppress and chase our people from their country and expect their businesses to thrive on our soil,” it said.

The statement further noted that immediately after expiration of the ultimatum, NANS will consider picketing South Africa business interests, while further actions will follow.”

It called on the Federal Government of Nigeria and the African Union to take more decisive actions against South Africa for their inimical acts towards other Africans.

“It is on record that Nigeria played a major role in support of South Africa during the apartheid struggle and should never be paid with disloyalty, disrespect and global embarrassment,” it added.

It would be recalled that xenophobic attack by South Africans on other Africans for some months had led to Nigerians being physically assaulted, embarrassed, intimidated, injured and some gruesomely murdered.

Several Nigeria business interests and business premises, owned by law abiding Nigerians in South Africa, had been completely burnt down or destroyed by rampaging South Africans without any justification.

The alleged perpetrators of these crimes had earlier given Nigerians and other Africans an ultimatum of June 30 to leave South Africa.

The Federal Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had in recent weeks airlifted hundreds of Nigerians, who are willing to leave the unfriendly country and her people, free of charge back to Nigeria.

However, some of those, who returned to Nigeria recently, left South Africa barely with the cloth they put on, losing savings, valuables and businesses they set up or acquired after many years.

By Salisu Sani-Idris

An Abuja Based Islamic Cleric, Yahya Al-Yolawi, has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for
intercepting large quantities of illicit drugs and dismantling criminal drug networks.
Al-Yolawi, who is the Chief Imam of Area 10 Jumu’ah Mosque, Garki, Abuja, made the commendation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Saturday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and NDLEA intercepted nine containers of illicit drugs worth N53.39billion at Apapa Port following joint intelligence operations.
The cleric said that NDLEA and other agencies have continued to play a vital role in combating drug trafficking, preventing drug abuse, and rescued victims of addiction through rehabilitation programmes.
Al-Yolawi also applauded the NDLEA for improving public awareness on the dangers of illicit drugs.
“The agency has recorded significant successes in intercepting large quantities of illicit drugs, dismantling criminal drug networks, and prosecuting offenders.
“NDLEA has expanded drug prevention campaigns in schools, communities, airports, seaports, and border areas.
” These efforts contribute to protecting our youth and strengthen the security and well-being of our nation.
“We commend the dedication and sacrifices of the Chairman of NDLEA, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, and all personnel of the agency, as well as other security agencies working tirelessly to safeguard our nation. “
The cleric urged all Nigerians to cooperate with lawful authorities in promoting righteousness, preventing crime, and protecting society from every form of evil.
“Intoxicants and drug abuse are among the greatest threats to our religion, our families, our health, and our future.
” They destroy faith, damage the body, weaken the mind, increase crime, break homes, and rob young people of their potential.
“Let every one of us resolve today to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.”
“Parents should remain vigilant, teachers should continue to educate, scholars should continue to advise, leaders should continue to lead with justice, and young people should choose the path of righteousness.”
NAN recalls that the NCS Comptroller-General, Bashir Adeniyi, had on Wednesday in Lagos disclosed the seizures of cannabis sativa, codeine syrup, tramadol and expired pharmaceuticals concealed inside vehicles, spare parts, and household items.
Adeniyi stated the operation followed painstaking intelligence gathering, scanning analysis, physical examination and collaboration with NDLEA.
(NAN)
(www.nannews.ng)

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has expressed profound grief over the tragic killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku, the Benue Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Sultan described the deceased as “a courageous advocate of peaceful coexistence’.

The statement signed by the National President of MACBAN, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, was made available to newsmen in Abuja.

In the statement, Abubakar, who is the Chairman, Board of Trustees of MACBAN, urged the relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation into the killing.

He said the government should ensure that every person found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.

While mourning the painful loss, Sultan commended the prompt response of the Benue Government and security agencies for the arrest of suspects in connection with the murder.

He said late Risku consistently championed reconciliation and constructive engagement in the pursuit of lasting peace in Benue.

Sultan also described the late Fulani leader as a respected community leader whose life was devoted to fostering peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding among pastoralists and farming communities.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the leadership and members of MACBAN nationwide, and the people and Government of Benue over the loss of Risku.

The traditional ruler noted that the deceased’s commitment to dialogue and conflict resolution earned him the respect of people across communities.

The Sultan appealed to all residents of Benue and the wider public to remain calm, shun reprisals, and allow the due process of the law to take its course.

He emphasised that no grievance should be allowed to undermine public peace or ignite further violence.

He stressed that justice could only be sustained when pursued through lawful institutions.

“The late Alhaji Ardo Risku dedicated his life to building bridges across communities.

” The most fitting tribute to his memory is for all of us to uphold the values of peace, restraint, dialogue, and mutual respect that he lived and worked for,” the Sultan stated.

He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.

The Sultan also prayed to Allah to bless the family of the deceased, friends, and associates with the strength and patience to bear this irreparable loss. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

ESUT Business School extols sterling qualities of Enugu Health Commissioner, Prof. Ugwu

The ESUT Business School Class has extolled the sterling academic and clinical qualities of the Enugu State Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, describing his appointment as well-deserved.

The ESUT Business School Coursemates of the commissioner led by Mr Chinedu Okafor and Mrs Stella Nwankwo, who are Class Governor and Deputy Class Governor respectively, said this at the weekend during a congratulatory visit to the commissioner.

Speaking on behalf of the class, Okafor said that the class came to celebrate and commend Ugwu’s outstanding leadership in advancing the health sector under the administration of Gov. Peter Mbah.

He noted that the coursemates expressed immense pride in the commissioner’s remarkable capacity, dedication, and commitment to driving the health agenda of the Mbah-led administration.

According to him, we are proud to identify with one of our own who is making a positive impact in public service.

“We are proud of your achievements in just a short while in office.

“Your performance has reflected the values of excellence, professionalism, and visionary leadership we have come to know you for in our academic journey together.

“We are assuring you of our continued support and encouragement as you serves the people of Enugu State,” he said.

Okafor said that Ugwu’s achievements had brought honour not only to the Ministry of Health but also to the ESUT Business School community as well.

Responding, Prof. Ugwu expressed profound gratitude for their thoughtful gesture, love, and unwavering support.

The commissioner said that the visit was “a humbling honour” that would further inspire him to remain committed to selfless service and excellence in the discharge of his responsibilities.

He highlighted the transformative achievements of Gov. Mbah in the health sector.

Ugwu emphasised the administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and expanding access to quality healthcare services.

“Our health-loving governor is also improving primary healthcare infrastructure and delivery in the 260 wards of the state,, recruiting health professionals and investing in modern medical facilities in the four-tier health systems across the state,” he said.

He reaffirmed his resolve to continue working with all stakeholders to deliver on the Governor’s Vision of building a resilient, accessible, and world-class healthcare system for the people of Enugu State.

Highlight of the visit was presentation of a beautifully framed portrait of the commissioner as a symbol of their admiration, confidence, and enduring friendship.

NANS National Leadership Names Amb. Okereafor As Director Cooperate, Private Sectors Engagement

The National Leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has once again found Comrade Amb. Bestman Okereafor worthy of another National assignment to oversee the Directorate of Corporate and Private Sectors Engagement in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The appointment, which was made known at the weekend, is coming after Okereafor meritoriously served as chairman of Screening and Verification Sub-Committee for the 2026 NANS National Elective Convention.

The Directorate shall serve as a bridge between NANS and the organised private sectors, multinational corporations, financial institutions, development foundations, technology companies, manufacturing industries, and other corporate organisations.

The Directorate also shall coordinate strategic partnerships aimed at attracting investments, scholarships, internship opportunities, entrepreneurship support programmes, innovation grants, career development initiatives, and corporate social responsibility interventions beneficial to Nigerian students.

Reacting, Comrade Bestman Okereafor, a former National PRO of NANS, appreciated the National leadership of NANS led by Comrade Akinteye Babatunde for the trust and confidence reposed on him to head the very important yet critical National directorate.

Okereafor lamented reduction of quantity of manufactured goods, especially packaged household consumer goods that have continued to drop in measures in terms of centilitres, grams and tonnes.

“Basic and internationally accepted standards for quantity in tea beverages, soft drinks and others have been tampered with in a subtle way, notwithstanding the gradual higher cost of goods, especially manufactured goods, the quantities of some of the goods have been tampered with by further subtle reduction in quantity within a stretch of time.

“The inhumane treatment of workers by some foreign companies is also very alarming most of their workers have no insurance and health coverage , chemical exposures thereby leading to food poisoning as a result of toxic fumes among others.

“NANS will ensure justice is done henceforth with massive engagements, because most of these products are mostly consumed by our constituents.

“We will also consider partnering with Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to investigate the current drop in standard quantity of some manufactured household consumer goods in the country,” he said.

He also assured that financial institutions that had been stylishly extorting Nigerian Students would be exposed while having partnerships with those beneficial to Nigerian Students.