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Author: Val Kosi

  • Adeleke: I Benefitted From Buhari Signing Electoral Act

    Adeleke: I Benefitted From Buhari Signing Electoral Act

    While noting that Buhari was looking healthy and nice, Adeleke, who was elected under the platform of the

    Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said the President’s signing of the Electoral Act paved the way for free and fair elections and the international community is applauding Nigeria, that Nigeria is set for democracy.

    It would be recalled that during the election in July 2022, Governor Adeleke unseated the incumbent governor, Gboyega Oyetola of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The governor told journalists, “Since my election, I feel like I should come and say hello to Mr. President and thank him for signing that Electoral Act.

    “So that is why I’m here today; to see him, thank him, and wish him well in his remaining time in office.”

    Joshua Okoria is a Lagos based multi-skilled journalist covering the maritime industry. His ICT and graphic design skills make him a resourceful person in any modern newsroom. He read mass communication at Olabisi Onabanjo University and has sharpened his knowledge in media practice from several other short courses.

  • Belgium grants sex workers health insurance, pensions, sick days and maternity leave

    Belgium grants sex workers health insurance, pensions, sick days and maternity leave

    Belgium has set a new benchmark in Europe by formally recognizing sex work as a legitimate profession, granting workers the same employment rights as those in other sectors.

    This historic legislation, passed in May and enacted on Sunday, allows sex workers to sign formal contracts and access critical benefits such as health insurance, pensions, family allowances, maternity leave, and paid vacations.

    The legal shift builds on Belgium’s 2022 decision to decriminalize sex work, which also narrowed the definition of pimping.

    This adjustment ensured that sex workers could access essential services, such as banking, insurance, transportation, and accounting, without fear of discrimination or legal repercussions.

    The new law goes even further, offering sex workers labor rights and protections on par with other professions, addressing long-standing inequities in the industry.

    The legislation guarantees sex workers the fundamental rights to refuse clients, set the terms of any act, and halt an act at any moment.

    What this means

    Employers hiring sex workers are now required to obtain official authorization and meet stringent background checks, including having no prior convictions for sexual assault, human trafficking, or fraud.

    • Additionally, employers must maintain clean and sanitary premises, provide hygiene products, and install panic buttons for enhanced safety.
    • Employers are prohibited from dismissing an employee who refuses a client or declines to perform a specific act, further strengthening worker protections.
    • These changes aim to ensure sex workers are treated equitably while creating safer working environments.
    • The reforms also address issues faced by sex workers before the introduction of labor protections.
    • According to UTSOPI, Belgium’s sex worker union, many workers previously felt compelled to continue working late into pregnancy or past retirement age due to a lack of financial safety nets.
    • The introduction of pensions, unemployment benefits, and other rights now offers a much-needed framework for long-term security.

    What to know

    The legislation has been hailed as a “revolution” by advocates. Isabelle Jaramillo, coordinator of Espace P, described it as a transformative step that legitimizes the profession in the eyes of the state and improves conditions for both workers and employers.

    Mel Meliciousss, a sex worker and member of UTSOPI, celebrated the law’s enactment, saying, “People who are already working in the industry will be much more protected [ed], and also people who are going to work in the industry also know what their rights are.”

    • Despite its groundbreaking nature, the law has not been without criticism.
    • Advocates argue that it does not fully address the stigma or challenges faced by undocumented sex workers.
    • Nevertheless, Belgium’s move is a significant step in integrating comprehensive labor protections into one of the world’s oldest professions, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
  • Nigeria has fewer than 200 psychiatrists for over 200 million people – APN

    Nigeria has fewer than 200 psychiatrists for over 200 million people – APN

    The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) has raised alarm over the country’s critical shortage of mental health professionals, revealing that fewer than 200 psychiatrists are available to serve Nigeria’s population of over 200 million people.

    This was disclosed by APN President, Prof. Taiwo Obindo, during the 55th annual general conference and scientific meeting held in Ilorin, where he described the situation as a pressing challenge requiring urgent government intervention.

    The conference has as its theme: “Prioritizing Mental Health Needs of Nigeria in a Depressed Economy: An Urgent Call for Integrated, Comprehensive and Sustainable Interventions”. 
    rof. Obindo attributed the worsening mental health crisis to the “Japa syndrome,” this phenomenon, he said, has greatly depleted the number of mental health Practitioners in the country.

    “The remaining professionals are overworked and poorly remunerated,” Obindo lamented, emphasizing that these tides need to be stemmed and reversed to retain mental health practitioners.

    Government neglect and budgetary constraints
    Obindo stated that mental health is yet to be accorded the needed attention by the government, contrasting it with Canada, which had a functional Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions.

    ”Nigeria needs to lay emphasis and importance on mental health. Mental health in the country is still a programme under the Department of Public Health in the Federal Ministry of Health,” he noted.

    He also highlighted the inadequacy of health budget allocations, “One other area needing attention is the budgetary allocation to health, and by extension, mental health, stand at less than six per cent.

    “This falls short of the Abuja Declaration of 2001, where health allocation was to be pegged at a minimum of 15 percent of every country’s annual budget,” Obindo stated.

    The APN president said the association had achieved some milestones in the establishment of Mental Health Programme .

    He called for the implementation of the Mental Health Act of 2021, which replaced the Lunacy Act of 1958 as a significant milestone after more than 30 years of failed efforts.

    However, he stressed the need for its full implementation to address the systemic challenges plaguing mental healthcare delivery.

    Prevalence of mental illness and cultural barriers
    Also, speaking in his lecture, Prof. Owoidoho Udofia of the University of Calabar said a study revealed that 12 percent of Nigerians suffer from mental and behavioural disorders.

    He attributed the poor identification of mental illness among some medical practitioners to specific shortcomings in their approach.
    Udofia further pointed out that cultural factors and misconceptions contribute to the underdiagnosis of mental illnesses. “Certain presence of culture-specific somatic symptoms, significantly lowered identification rate of mental illness by General practitioners in teaching hospitals,” he explained.
    The Consultant Psychiatrist also refuted colonial-era assumptions that Africans were not sophisticated enough to have depression.
    He explained that mental illness makes up less than 30 per cent of the burden in teaching hospitals in Nigeria.
    “The illness is not limited to conditions like schizophrenia and psychosis. Substance abuse is prevalent, highlighting the need for better diagnostic practices,” Udofia emphasized.

    He also called for improvements in identification and research efforts to address the gaps in mental health care.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Canada, Germany, and New Zealand stand as key destinations for skilled workers in 2025

    Canada, Germany, and New Zealand stand as key destinations for skilled workers in 2025

    Canada, Germany, and New Zealand are becoming prime destinations for skilled workers seeking new opportunities in 2025.

    These countries offer strong economic prospects, competitive salaries, and efficient immigration pathways, making them attractive options for professionals looking to relocate.

    According to the DAAD Scholarship, these nations also provide clear routes to citizenship, ensuring long-term success for workers.

    They are as listed below:

    Canada: strong economy and clear immigration pathways

    Reports inform that Canada stands out for its competitive salaries and immigration systems, which are designed to attract skilled professionals. The average salary in Canada is CAD 60,000 annually, with tech and STEM roles offering six-figure salaries. The country’s immigration pathways, including the Express Entry, Global Talent Stream, and Provincial Nominee Programs, have contributed to it being a top choice for skilled workers.

    The Express Entry system typically processes most applications in six months or less once a complete application is submitted. This quick processing time is one of the reasons it is popular.

    In addition to strong economic prospects, reports inform that Canada offers a stable economy with low inflation, ensuring that workers’ earnings retain value. With just three years of permanent residency, workers can apply for citizenship.

    Germany: a growing economy with various visa options

    Germany is another top destination for skilled professionals, especially in fields like engineering, IT, and manufacturing. The average salary in Germany is €50,000 annually, and industries like engineering and IT offer higher pay. Germany’s immigration system includes options like the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card), which allows skilled workers with at least two years of experience to directly enter the job market.

    • Germany’s Opportunity Card has made it easier for skilled workers to find employment. It provides a direct route for professionals to settle and work in Germany.
    • The country also offers other work visa options such as the EU Blue Card and visas for shortage occupations. According to reports, the country’s stable economy and manageable inflation allow workers to retain purchasing power.

    The path to gaining citizenship in Germany takes about eight years, but this timeline is shorter for those married to German citizens. After acquiring German citizenship, individuals become EU citizens, opening up opportunities in 26 other countries.

    New Zealand: career growth and a high quality of life

    According to DAAD Scholarship, New Zealand offers both career opportunities and a high standard of living.

    • The average salary is NZD 70,000, with healthcare, IT, and skilled trades offering higher wages. The country’s immigration system actively seeks skilled workers with programs like the Essential Skills Work Visa, Specific Purpose Work Visa, and Green List occupations.
    • Reports show that New Zealand is a prime destination for skilled workers, especially with the Green List occupations. These programs help workers find jobs in areas where there is a demand.

    New Zealand’s path to citizenship is one of the shortest globally, with workers eligible to apply after five years of residence. The country, according to reports, is commended for its low crime rates; making it a safe and welcoming place to live. The stable economy and low inflation ensure that the cost of living remains manageable, while workers’ earnings retain value.

    Planning your move: a strategic approach to applications

    While applying for jobs and visas in Canada, Germany, and New Zealand is possible, reports caution that it requires careful planning.

    Each country has its visa requirements and processing times, so it is important to prioritize applications. Consulting immigration experts can help ensure that all necessary documents are submitted correctly.

    A strategic approach includes applying sequentially to save resources and focusing on the most suitable destination. It is also crucial to consider factors such as job markets, cultural fit, and family needs in each country. This method can help increase the chances of successfully securing a work visa and permanent residency.

     

  • Peter Obi: I’m Committed to a United, Secure and Progressive Nigeria

    Peter Obi: I’m Committed to a United, Secure and Progressive Nigeria

    The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi has restated his commitment to a united, secure, and working Nigeria if allowed to pilot the affairs of the country in 2023.

    Obi, during a live broadcast to commemorate Nigeria’s 53-year re-unification after the civil war said that he remains resolute that a new Nigeria that everyone will be proud of and patriotically committed to is possible, and is a task that must be achieved.

    According to him, anyone who still harbors an agenda different from the realization of a wholesome and unifying people-oriented development vision is doing a terrible disservice to this generation and Nigerians yet unborn, adding that he cannot think of any valid reason, except for the deficit of sound socio-economic and political policies and programs that will unite and propel Nigeria forward.

    In his words: “15th January, a very special and unique day in 2023 as it was 53 years ago! 40 days from today, Nigerians will be voting in an election that many regard as the most crucial and existential decision we have to make as a nation, and particularly for our children and youths, given the sad state of our dear nation, Nigeria: alarming insecurity, unemployment, poverty, inflation, debt, hunger, disunity, hopelessness and many other indices of a failing state.

    “It was also on 15th January, 53 years ago, a very special red-letter day for Nigeria that the booming of guns and other paraphernalia of battle were formally silenced in the thirty-month civil war in which millions of lives were regrettably lost and an unquantifiable number of properties destroyed!

    “It was stated: ‘To keep Nigerian one is a task that must be done’ and ‘No victor, no vanquished’. It is this task of keeping Nigeria one in the spirit of no Victor, no Vanquished that has provided the platform for the commitment of both mental and physical energy to the arduous but noble task of building one strong, united ad indivisible Nigeria.

    “As such, the overriding task we should all be committed to, as stated above, is Securing and Uniting Nigeria for Sustainable and Inclusive Development, particularly for our children and youths. While we regret the immense losses from the war, pray for the repose of souls of the departed, and thank God that it ended, we all must join hands with utmost sincerity and commitment to prevent any serious violence in Nigeria, let alone another civil war! Never again!

    “This task of Securing and Uniting Nigeria should be our only option and we all can agree that the leaders and people of different sections of Nigeria have done admirably well, particularly in the years immediately after the war. Within less than ten years after the end of that civil war, a committed personality from the defunct Biafra, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, was the Number Two Man to a most patriotic, humble servant-leader, Alhaji Shehu Shangri, who was Number One.

    “May their Souls continue to rest in peace! Our dear Shehu Shagari and Alex Ekwueme -both of blessed memories – became a strong and veritable expression of the unity and togetherness that engendered a vibrant post-war Nigeria. This democratic leap with its unifying symbolism was glorious for Nigeria, and I deeply cherish such path of brotherhood and onenesses established by Shagari/Ekwueme and truly believe that it is this path of inclusiveness and togetherness as one Nigeria we should follow today.

    “From what I know of the South-East, the Igbo Nation, led by Ohaneze, has at every opportunity been unequivocal about its commitment to the unity, oneness, integrity, and progress of Nigeria, based on equity, justice, and an inclusive society. And I, Peter Obi, a proud Nigerian of Igbo extraction, I am most truthfully and wholly committed to that stand of One United, Secure and Progressive Nigeria!”

    The two-time former Governor of Anambra State pointed out that there are youths all over Nigeria who are frustrated because of injustice, poverty, lack of opportunities, unemployment, and apparent exclusion, stating that such youths could seize upon and use anything issue or tool to express their frustration and anger.

    Obi, who highlighted that some of those agitating are doing so partly due to the failure of leaders in creating an inclusive and progressive Nigeria, pledged to make sure that the civil war and the circumstances that led to it do not re-occur; and to ensure the building of an all-inclusive and progressive society where no individual or group will be estranged, marginalised, or excluded.

    According to him, a working Nigeria with equity, justice and fairness will also definitely and effectively checkmate such extreme groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP.

    “I personally believe that the best strategy for dealing with these situations manifesting in the guise of unclear nationalism, bigoted patriotism and religious bigotry is a carrot and stick approach. Nation building and an Ordered Society are now imperative.

    “We must wean those that can be weaned through the creation of a society where equity and justice will prevail, a society where the basic freedoms and necessities of life, such as health, jobs, skills, and empowerment are provided. There must be a national programme for those who will accept the carrot approach. For those unwilling to yield to the carrot approach, the stick option will be fully justified and applied. We must put order in our society and where necessary, justice will be tempered with mercy.

    “I believe that various agitation groups will stop their agitations when they see a patriotic leadership imbued with fairness, equity, justice, and a determination for a very inclusive and progressive society. Every rational human being can change when he sees a good reason to do so. Such incentives require the right approach, effort, and time.

    “It is also unfair to use the misconduct or position of one person or few persons in an ethnic group to stigmatize the entire group. It is a wrong approach and should not be so! I have repeatedly said that I will sit down and discuss with all agitators, believing that we must continue to talk and negotiate with all to achieve positive results. Let us accept that the war has truly ended. To try to continue to ‘fight the civil war’ today, after fifty-three years, would be a great disservice to Nigeria and Nigerians, particularly our heroes who diligently Laboured to secure and unite us. Let our rallying anthem remain: ‘Though tribes and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand’

    “Today, 133 million Nigerians live in multi-dimensional poverty, 20 million children are out of school, we have near 40% unemployment, with about 60%unemployed youths who do not know where the next meal will come from; our young people in their productive years are doing nothing, our primary healthcare system has collapsed, we have overtaken India in infant mortality despite their being seven times our population. Our youths’ drug abuse prevalence is the highest in the world. We are now globally treated like second class citizens; with Nigerians being refused entry into countries we were far better than a few years ago.

    “These are things that should concern us today; these are things I want us to come together as a family and as a great nation to commence reversing, irrespective of our tribe and religion. That is the Nigeria for which I wish to be the Team Leader, where everybody will be included, no matter where he or she comes from or what his or her beliefs are”.

    Obi explained that there are critical junctures and times in which every nation must seize the moment to define or redefine its history, noting that for Nigeria, that moment is now.

    “A new Nigeria is possible; a nation bound in freedom, peace, unity, justice and prosperity is realizable! Let us all join hands in love and brotherhood to build, with God of our creation guiding our noble cause!”, he added.

    Ismail Aniemu, Publisher of JournalNG and ghost writer, is a maritime journalist of over two decades’ of practice with multidisciplinary background. He holds a masters degree in Transport Management from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology(LAUTECH) with bias for logistics. He is also an alumnus of the Times Journalism Institute where he obtained a post graduate diploma in Journalism
  • NAFDAC alerts public to counterfeit antimalarial drug in circulation

    NAFDAC alerts public to counterfeit antimalarial drug in circulation

    he National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted Nigerians to the circulation of counterfeit Combiart Dispersible Tablet (20/120mg) in the country.

    The agency issued the warning through its X handle on Thursday, that the fake product is falsely labelled as being manufactured by Strides Arcolab Limited, an India-based pharmaceutical company.

    “This counterfeit product was discovered during surveillance activities in the FCT and Rivers State by officers of the Post Marketing Surveillance Directorate of NAFDAC,” the agency stated.
    ccording to NAFDAC, laboratory analysis revealed that the counterfeit tablets contain zero active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), It also bore two different date markings, further confirming its counterfeit nature.

    Expired licence and false registration number
    NAFDAC’s database of registered products confirmed that the licence for Combiart has expired. Additionally, the NAFDAC Registration Number displayed on the product is incorrect.
    The product has batch number 7225119 and a NAFDAC registration number A11-0299 and is not associated with authentic medication.
    Risks of counterfeit medicines
    NAFDAC highlighted that counterfeit medicines pose significant health risks as they fail to meet regulatory safety and efficacy standards. “The use of such products may lead to treatment failure, serious health consequences, or even death.”

    “Artemether and Lumefantrine combination belongs to a group of medicines known as antimalarials. It treats malaria, a red blood cell infection transmitted by the bite of a mosquito. However, this medicine is not used to treat severe or complicated malaria,” the agency stated.

    NAFDAC identified the product’s batch number as 7225119, with a NAFDAC registration number of A11-0299. It noted that the manufacturing dates on the product were June 2023 and February 2023, while the expiry dates were May 2026 and June 2026.

    The manufacturer’s name and address were listed as Strides Arcolab Limited, 36/7, Suragajakkanahalli, Indlavadi Cross, Anekal Taluk, Bangalore (562 106), India.

    The agency directed all its zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and remove counterfeit products from circulation.

    Importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers were urged to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of counterfeit products.

    “All medical products must be obtained from authorized/licensed suppliers. The authenticity and physical condition of the products should be carefully checked,” NAFDAC advised.

    “Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of the sale of substandard and falsified medicines or medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.

    NAFDAC also urged healthcare professionals and patients to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of the product to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website, www.nafdac.gov.ng.

    The public can also submit their complaints through the Med safety application, which is available for download on Android and iOS stores or simply send an email to pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.

     

     

     

  • BankBox achieves groundbreaking 1,734% growth in 2024, revolutionising Nigeria’s payment landscape

    BankBox achieves groundbreaking 1,734% growth in 2024, revolutionising Nigeria’s payment landscape

    BankBox, Nigeria’s first portable payment device, in 2024 recorded an incredible 1,734% surge in usage.

    This trailblazing solution has revolutionized the payment landscape by providing businesses with a seamless, affordable, and innovative way to process transactions.

    Designed to meet the dynamic needs of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Other Financial Institutions (OFIs), and service providers, BankBox combines portability, efficiency, and advanced technology to deliver an unparalleled payment experience.

    Its contactless feature allows businesses to process payments effortlessly, ensuring quick, secure transactions with just a tap. This capability aligns with modern consumer expectations, offering a frictionless payment experience that reduces wait times and enhances customer satisfaction.

    Simplified Contactless Payments with BankBox 

    BankBox makes processing contactless payments effortless. A simple card tap on the device is all it takes to complete a transaction. In line with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulations, transactions under NGN15,000 are supported without needing PIN entry, making everyday payments quick and hassle-free.

    From shopping at local markets to dining at favorite restaurants, customers can now pay quickly—no delays or fuss. BankBox enables businesses to offer the seamless payment experience consumers demand.

    The portable device not only supports contactless transactions but is also compatible with cards from leading commercial banks and fintech companies, including:

    • Access Bank
    • Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank)
    • UBA
    • Zenith Bank
    • First Bank
    • Wema Bank
    • Providus Bank
    • Stanbic IBTC
    • KUDA
    • PalmPay
    • Opay
    • Raven

    By supporting transactions below NGN15,000 without requiring PIN entry, BankBox caters to the high-frequency, low-value payments that dominate everyday spending in Nigeria.

    The contactless functionality and compatibility across major banks and fintech platforms solidify BankBox’s position as a leader in driving Nigeria’s transition toward a cashless economy.

    Revolutionizing Payments across Industries 

    BankBox’s portable design is a game-changer for businesses across sectors. It supports mobile operators like petty traders, logistics companies, and ride-hailing services, as well as established businesses such as supermarket chains. With BankBox, businesses of all sizes can deliver unparalleled convenience.

    What Users Are Saying 

    BankBox has revolutionized payment experiences for millions of Nigerians, reflecting Raven’s unwavering commitment to financial accessibility and inclusion.

    More than just a device, BankBox embodies Raven’s vision for intuitive, reliable, and forward-thinking financial solutions. This innovation transcends convenience, reshaping how Nigerians interact with money and approach everyday transactions.

    Experience effortless, secure, and contactless payments today. The future is BankBox.

  • WHO secures $1.7bn in first investment round, targets saving 40m lives

    WHO secures $1.7bn in first investment round, targets saving 40m lives

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has secured $1.7 billion in pledges during its inaugural Investment Round, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced today at a media briefing.

    These funds are part of a broader effort to implement WHO’s global strategy to safeguard health and save 40 million lives over the next four years.

    Dr. Tedros highlighted that 70 pledges were received, including contributions from 39 first-time donors, with 21 of them from middle-income countries. Notably, some of the world’s poorest nations also made contributions, underscoring the trust in WHO’s work on the ground.
    When countries contribute, even those with limited resources, it demonstrates the difference WHO is making globally,” Dr. Tedros said.

    $3.8bn secured for WHO’s budget
    Combined with other funding agreements and partnerships, WHO now has $3.8 billion committed, representing 53% of the voluntary contributions required for the next four years.
    Dr. Tedros emphasized that this funding would provide WHO with greater predictability and flexibility, allowing it to respond more rapidly to evolving global health threats.
    “I thank all countries and partners who have contributed. This marks a significant step forward, as for decades only a small portion of WHO’s total budget was predictable,” Dr. Tedros added.

    The funding is expected to strengthen WHO’s capacity to address global health challenges effectively and help build a safer, healthier world.
    Earlier, at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, chaired by Brazil’s President H.E. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Australia, Indonesia, Spain, and the United Kingdom emerged as some of the top contributors. They pledged $410 million, $300 million, $620 million, and $392 million, respectively.
    World AIDS Day 2024: Rights at the core of HIV response
    Speaking further during the briefing, Dr. Tedros also highlighted World AIDS Day 2024, themed “Take the Rights Path,” saying it reminded us of the critical importance of human rights in the response to HIV.
    According to him, Since the first World AIDS Day in 1988, we have come a long way in expanding access to prevention, diagnosis and treatment for HIV.
    But these gains are at real risk, and reductions in new infections and deaths have stalled.
    Persistent gaps in HIV response
    “While nearly 30 million people are now on antiretroviral treatment, another 9 million need treatment and are not getting it and more than half of those, nearly 5 million, are still unaware that they are living with HIV,” he noted

    Dr. Tedros emphasized that many of these gaps are among key populations who are marginalized, criminalized or discriminated against: men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, transgender people, sex workers and prisoners.

    “The most effective way to close these gaps and reach these populations is by recognizing and respecting their human rights.”

    “Together this World AIDS Day, let’s take the right path – let’s take the rights path,” he advised.

     

     

     

     

  • Lagos govt seals 9 businesses in Mushin, Amuwo Odofin, and Okota Isolo for noise, environmental violation

    Lagos govt seals 9 businesses in Mushin, Amuwo Odofin, and Okota Isolo for noise, environmental violation

    The Lagos State Government has sealed nine establishments across Mushin, Amuwo Odofin, and Okota Isolo for violating noise and environmental regulations, including a bakery, a hotel, a church, a conference center, and a spa, among others.

    The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) carried out the enforcement action as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce noise pollution, uphold environmental standards, and promote a healthier, more sustainable environment for all Lagosians.

    The disclosure was made in a statement posted on Monday via the official X (formerly Twitter) account of Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources.

    It emphasized that despite prior notices from LASEPA, the affected businesses were shut down for failing to meet required environmental standards.

    “In a decisive move to combat noise pollution and other environmental violations, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) @LasepaOfficial the week sealed several establishments across the state. The enforcement operation, which covered areas such as Mushin, Amuwo Odofin, and Okota Isolo, underscores LASEPA’s commitment to fostering a healthier and more sustainable environment for all Lagosians.

    It added, “These establishments were shut down for failing to comply with environmental standards, despite prior notices from the agency,” the statement read in part.

    The establishments sealed include:

    • Daily Bakery
    • Redeemed Christian Church of God
    • Gak Universal Allied Limited
    • Ideal Standard
    • Franjane Royal Suites
    • Golden Haven Resort & Suites
    • Festival Hotel Conference Center & SPA
    • FS Service Centre
    • Moulin Rouge Ventures at Olivia Mall

    The statement highlighted that the closure of the defaulting establishments reinforces LASEPA’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and safeguarding the well-being of Lagosians, with the agency assuring the public of its ongoing efforts to create a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable Lagos.

    What you should know  

    The Lagos State government continues to enforce regulations addressing noise pollution and environmental violations across the state. Recently, several establishments in Gbagada, Ogudu, Ojodu, and Agidingbi were shut down for such violations.

    • Notably, Ile Iyan restaurant in Ikeja GRA was sealed for exceeding noise levels and failing to meet environmental standards. Donald Fast Food in Lekki Phase 1 was closed two months ago for operating as a nightclub in a residential area but reopened after committing to noise limits.
    • In October 2023, the Carizma Hotel in Abule Egba was sealed following repeated noise complaints from residents. Other closures include Silk Club in Ikoyi and Quilox Club in Victoria Island for excessive noise. These actions align with NESREA guidelines, which set noise limits of 55 decibels during the day and 45 at night in residential areas.
    • Additionally, establishments in Ikorodu, including bakeries, hotels, bars, and churches, were sealed for environmental violations. Markets like Mile 12, Ladipo, and Oyingbo were temporarily closed earlier this year but resumed after meeting environmental standards.

    Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has repeatedly emphasized that these actions are vital to public health and a sustainable environment for Lagosians.

     

  • Closing gender gaps could add N15trn to Nigeria’s GDP annually – Minister of Women Affairs

    Closing gender gaps could add N15trn to Nigeria’s GDP annually – Minister of Women Affairs

    Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, has revealed that closing gender gaps in Nigeria has the potential to boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by N15 trillion annually by 2025.

    She made this statement during the joint UN Accountability Forum and Orange/Lighting ceremony held in Abuja on Thursday, themed “Towards Beijing +30: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”

    The minister stated that studies had shown that countries with higher levels of gender equality experience faster economic growth, improved governance, and more stable societies.
    For Nigeria, closing gender gaps has the potential to add N15 trillion to our GDP annually by 2025,” she said.

    She highlighted the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles, noting that women constitute 49% of our population and account for 41% of small and medium-scale enterprise (SME) owners.

    However, their representation in senior leadership is just 22% with only 3.6% holding seats in parliament.

    “These disparities represent untapped potentials that if harnessed, could drive our nation’s development forward, “Sulaiman-Ibrahim added.

    The minister said that the event was an opportunity to reflect on shared commitment towards advancing gender equality and ending violence against women and children.

    “It is an opportunity to evaluate our progress, reassess our strategies, and reaffirm our commitment to achieving the bold vision outlined in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, now approaching its 30th anniversary,” she said.

    Milestones in tackling violence against women
    Dr Felicia Onibon, Nigeria Report Consultant, said the over 100-page “Nigeria Beijing Report” contains all the activities done around SDGs and the Beijing platform for action in the past five years.

    “To resolve some of the issues and gaps that we have in the report, we would still continue to ask that our partners within the United Nations and development agencies come up with strategic plans to support the Nigerian government,” she said.

    While speaking on the Nigeria Beijing Report, Nesreen Elmolla, Deputy Representative of UN Women, said Nigeria has been an inspiring country on many fronts, but on Violence Against Women, Nigeria has been leading on operationalizing and domesticating the violence against persons, Prohibition Act, which is now operational in 35 states.

    She described this as a “huge milestone” in the country’s fight against gender-based violence (GBV) and we are proud to be celebrating.

    “The orange and lighting ceremony symbolizes hope, unity and a collective vision for a world and a Nigeria free of violence.”

    “Let us reaffirm our commitment to a Nigeria where the rights of women, girls, men, and all people underpin justice, solidarity, and prosperity for all,” she added.

    Collaboration for sustainable change
    Other speakers at the event highlighted the importance of partnerships and strategic action.
    Abdourahamane Diablo, Head of Office and Country Representative of UNESCO to Nigeria, reiterated their commitment to ending GBV, promoting girl-child education, and advancing gender equality.
    “UNESCO aligns strongly with the goals of the Beijing Platform for Action, particularly in advancing gender equality through education and eradicating gender-based violence,” he said.

    Francis Koessan, Deputy Representative of UNFPA, called for greater synergy between stakeholders, engagement with men and boys, and advocacy for policy implementation to end GBV, along with investments in preventive measures to ensure the safety of women and girls.
    Cheikh Toure, UNODC Representative in Nigeria, stated: “We can transform commitment into tangible outcomes, fostering a society where women and girls can live free from violence, fear, and inequality.”