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CAPPA Seeks Smoke-Free Ojude-Oba Celebration

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CAPPA Condemns Police Crackdown on Lagos Demolition Protest

Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has urged His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Ogbagba II, Awujale of Ijebuland, to declare the Ojude Oba festival a No-Smoking or Smoke-Free Event, in the interest of public health.

CAPPA, in a statement on Friday, appealed to the Awujale and the Organising Committee of the 2025 Ojude Oba festival to prohibit smoking, glamourisation of tobacco products and tobacco advertisements across all festival grounds, and establish designated health stations where volunteers can educate participants on the risks of smoking and vaping.

This year’s Ojude Oba festival, themed “Ojude Oba: Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future,” will be held on Sunday at the Dipo Dina International Stadium in Ijebu Ode.

Each year, the festival attracts hundreds of thousands of participants and tourists, as well as global attention and media.

CAPPA tasked the revered monarch and the Ojude Oba organising committee to prevent the tobacco industry from using the event to target individuals and vulnerable groups with its products of death and disease.

It said: “With this spotlight comes responsibility. Your Majesty and the Committee may recall that during last year’s Ojude Oba festival which featured many colourful appearances, a notable occurrence involved cancer survivor Mr. Farooq Oreagba smoking on horseback.

This image which circulated widely, was also seized by the tobacco industry to frame and promote smoking as fashionable, and a cultural norm.

“Unfortunately, such portrayals of ‘smoking as a cool indulgence’ risk overshadowing the cultural significance of Ojude Oba and inadvertently endorsing harmful behaviours. This is true because medical evidence and the experiences of addicted victims make it clear that there is nothing good about smoking.”

”Even secondhand inhalation kills. Tobacco consumption is a leading cause of preventable cancers, respiratory disorders, and cardiovascular illnesses, and it places families and young people at grave risk.”

“Across Nigeria, local media continues to document young smokers struggling with anxiety, psychological distress, and antisocial behaviours.”

According to the NGO, it is in recognition of these harms that Nigeria enacted the National Tobacco Control Act in 2015, which bans any form of tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship (TAPS), prohibits the sale of cigarettes to minors, and forbids smoking in public places, amongst other measures to safeguard public health.

Additionally, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) issued regulations in 2024 requiring that no film or video content exhibited or distributed in Nigeria may portray tobacco use without an accompanying health warning—ensuring that our cultural productions also uphold public health standards.

“Thankfully, this year’s Ojude Oba festival fortuitously follows just days after World No Tobacco Day, a global event that underscores the dangers of smoking, draws back the curtain on tobacco industry tactics, and promotes healthier living.

“Given the festival’s penetrating influence, declaring it Smoke-Free will not only align powerfully with our cultural values but also protect our youth from negative influences and unhealthy lifestyles,” CAPPA said.

The statement also noted that the sentiments of Chief Fassy A. Yusuf (Ph.D), Coordinator of the Ojude Oba festival, reinforce CAPPA’s concerns.

In a recent meeting with CAPPA’s tobacco control advocacy team, the respected Chief affirmed that smoking poses serious health risks and reiterated that Ijebu land does not endorse tobacco use, particularly during the festival.

Whilst commending Chief Fassy for his leadership and describing his remarks as timely and consistent with broader national and global efforts to de-normalise smoking in public and cultural spaces, the NGO appealed to the monarch and the Ojude Oba 2025 Organising Committee to uphold this public health-sensitive commitment by:

“Prohibiting smoking and tobacco advertisement across all festival grounds, including parade routes and communal gathering areas.

“Allowing and establishing designated health stations at main entrances where trained volunteers can distribute advocacy materials, offer education and evidence-based guidance on the risks of smoking.”

CAPPA also encouraged the Organising Committee to mobilise group leaders to reinforce smoke-free guidelines and ensure that every age group understands the stakes.

It reasoned that these measures would reaffirm Ojude Oba’s cultural integrity, “demonstrating that our heritage cannot be hijacked to normalise habits that undermine communal strength.

Other states and cultural festivals will also on this account, look to Ijebu land for leadership because a smoke-free Ojude Oba will inspire a ripple effect across Nigeria, as well as underscore Your Majesty’s legacy of care.”

APWEN Lagos Advocates Waste Museum Model to Tackle Plastic Pollution

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blacktalker
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Engr. Owolabi Bows Out as APWEN Lagos Chairman, Celebrates Legacy of Impact, Innovation

As the world marks World Environment Day 2025 under the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution,” the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN, Lagos Chapter, has called for innovative grassroots solutions, spotlighting the Waste Museum Model as a strategic approach to curbing plastic waste in Nigeria.

In a press statement issued by its Chairman, Engr. (Dr.) Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi, FNSE, FNIEEE, APWEN Lagos reaffirmed its commitment to using engineering leadership and public engagement to address the escalating crisis of plastic pollution.

“Plastic pollution is no longer just an environmental issue—it is a threat to ecosystems, marine life, food security, and public health,” Engr. Owolabi said. “As engineers and change agents, we understand that expertise must go hand in hand with advocacy, innovation, and education.”

The chapter’s focal message this year is titled “Ending Plastic Pollution Using the Waste Museum Model: Action Plans and Recommended Solutions.”

According to Engr. Owolabi, the model, developed through grassroots innovation, turns plastic waste into educational tools and community assets, promoting sustainability, creativity and circular economy practices.

“This is more than a conversation, it is a commitment,” she emphasized. “We aim to empower citizens, especially young women and girls, with the knowledge and responsibility to drive environmental change.”

APWEN Lagos called on stakeholders across government, academia, industry, and the public to adopt and support models that not only recycle waste but transform community mindsets and habits around plastic use.

“We must shift from disposable culture to sustainable practice. The Waste Museum Model is proof that local solutions can inspire global impact,” Engr. Owolabi added.

The association also pledged to continue driving engineering-based advocacy and solutions that foster a cleaner, greener Lagos and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s environmental goals.

EID-KABIR: OGUN POLICE COMMAND ASSURES RESIDENTS OF ROBUST SECURITY

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Ogun Police Arrest Cultist in Igbesa, Launch Manhunt for Accomplices

The Ogun State Police Command has assured residents of comprehensive security measures for a safe and peaceful Eid-Kabir celebration.

The Command also implored citizens to cooperate with all security agencies for a safer environment.

Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo Ph.D., who gave assurance in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Omolola Odutola , anipr, explained that extensive motorized patrol and tactical assets have been deployed across the state to ensure a crime-free Sallah.

He noted that specialized units, including SWAT, Monitoring, Anti-Kidnapping and Anti-Cultism sections have also been strategically positioned to prevent violent crime, while the Command has beefed up round-the-clock surveillance, with visible police presence to cover praying grounds, public facilities, banks and event/recreation centres statewide.

According to Ogunlowo, in order to keep up with security, extended patrols with sister agencies have been enhanced at flash points including Onigari, Ayetoro, Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu Interchange, Long Bridge, Alapako, Ogunmakin, and Abeokuta, with officers conducting stop-and-search operations.

Also, Divisional Police Officers, supervised by Area Commanders, will patrol their jurisdictions while joint task force operations with sister agencies will secure border towns.

The Commissioner of Police felicitated with Muslim faithful, urging them to embody the spirit of peace during the celebration.

He also urged the public to contact the Ogun Police Command incase of any emergencies via:
09159578888, 09062837609, 09120141706, 09151027369, 07084972994 or through the following social media platforms: X: @OgunPoliceNG; Instagram: Ogunpolice_ng; Facebook: Ogun Command and YouTube: @embracepeace.

CEMESO Seeks Quick Action to Beat Plastic Pollution Amid World Environment Day 2025

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blacktalker
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CEMESO Condemns Shutdown of Badeggi FM, Urges Niger State Governor to Respect Democratic Rights

As the world unites under the banner of “Beat Plastic Pollution” for World Environment Day 2025, the Centre for Media and Society, CEMESO has joined voices across the globe to call for urgent and sustained action to address the plastic crisis threatening Nigeria’s cities, rural communities, ecosystems, and future generations.

Executive Director of the CEMESO, Dr Akin Akingbulu, called on government authorities, private sector players, civil society and the media to intensify collaborative efforts in curbing plastic pollution across the country.

He stated that the occasion of World Environment Day should serve as a turning point for environmental reform and accountability. Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Day serves as a global platform for advocacy and action on environmental challenges.

The 2025 observance highlights one of the most pressing issues of our time: plastic pollution. With over 400 million tonnes of plastic produced globally each year and a significant portion ending up in landfills, rivers, and oceans, the call to action has never been more urgent.

In Nigeria, the realities are sobering. The country generates approximately 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, ranking among the top contributors to plastic pollution globally. Shockingly, over 88% of this plastic waste is not recycled, often ending up in drainage systems, public spaces, and coastal waters.

Dr Akingbulu observed that urban centres like Lagos face mounting plastic waste that clogs waterways and contributes to flooding and public health crises.

Meanwhile, rural areas and oil-producing communities, especially in the Niger Delta, endure decades of pollution from extractive activities, worsening the degradation of natural ecosystems.

He said CEMESO acknowledges the recent steps taken by the Nigerian government, including the adoption of the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management, the announcement of a 2025 nationwide ban on single-use plastics, and the push for Extended Producer Responsibility to hold manufacturers accountable.

However, the success of these policies depends on effective implementation, enforcement, and broad-based public awareness.

“Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind in the global effort to end plastic pollution. While the government has made laudable commitments, implementation must be swift, inclusive, and rooted in the realities of urban and rural Nigeria,” said Dr Akin Akingbulu.

“This is a moment for shared responsibility. From policymakers to producers, media professionals to school children, everyone must play a role. Let us not wait until our rivers, farms, and future are permanently choked by plastic.”

He called on the Federal Government to ensure full enforcement of the single-use plastics ban by 2025 and expand support for recycling and circular economy initiatives while state and local governments should invest in waste management infrastructure and public education campaigns.

The media should amplify environmental education and promote behavioural change; civil society and the private sector to innovate and collaborate on sustainable packaging alternatives. and then communities and citizens to embrace the “Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rethink” ethos in daily life.

    Dr Akingbulu added that there was the need to move from pollution to solution, expressing optimism that together, we can beat plastic pollution and secure a cleaner, healthier Nigeria for generations to come.

    NIMC Debunks Claims of Denied Access, Affirms Verification Services Fully Functional

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    blacktalker
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    NIMC Pushes Digital Public Infrastructure to Improve Service Delivery, National Security

    The National Identity Management Commission, NIMC has debunked claims suggesting that the Police Service Commission, PSC was denied access to its verification platforms, asserting that all its identity verification services remain fully operational and accessible to security agencies nationwide.

    In a statement released signed by the Head of NIMC’s Corporate Communications Unit, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, the Commission described reports alleging the PSC’s inability to access the NIMC verification server as “misleading and inaccurate.”

    NIMC emphasized that the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), the PSC, and other relevant security bodies have enjoyed uninterrupted verification access for over five years, particularly for purposes such as recruitment, security mapping, and crime control.

    The Commission noted that verification services have been instrumental in past recruitment exercises conducted by the PSC and the Police. “At no time have there been any complaints or issues regarding NIN verification by the NPF or PSC,” the statement read.

    The Commission reaffirmed its longstanding collaborative relationship with the Nigeria Police Force and the Police Service Commission, noting that the NPF’s Information Communications and Technology (ICT) department actively oversees the integration and usage of NIMC’s verification platforms across all formations.

    While acknowledging recent changes in the framework for service delivery, carried out in consultation with the Office of the National Security Adviser, NIMC clarified that the updates were intended to standardize and enhance operational efficiency.

    According to the Commission, the NPF has confirmed continued access and usage of the verification service under the new structure. “We believe any service interruption experienced by PSC may be due to internal matters,” NIMC stated.

    Reiterating its commitment to service excellence, the Commission assured partners that verification services remain available to all authorized agencies, provided that the terms and conditions for access are duly observed.

    “NIMC will continue to provide flawless verification services for recruitment, security mapping, cybercrime control, and other security-related matters,” the statement concluded.

    Nigeria Seeks Collaboration Among West African States for Economic, Regional Integration

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    blacktalker
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    Nigeria Seeks Collaboration Among West African States for Economic, Regional Integration

    Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has stressed the need for collaboration among West African States for greater economic and regional integration by leveraging their shared market potential and demographic advantages.

    The Minister made the assertion at a Private Sector Roundtable in Lagos, as part of the build-up to the West Africa Economic Summit, WAES, which will be held from 20th to 21st of June in Abuja, Nigeria.

    The roundtable also had in attendance top business leaders gathered at the Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island.

    Tuggar, at the event, stated that the country’s economic stature within the West African sub-region is both significant and uncontested, but that there is a need for partnership among the nations in the region.

    “National strength alone is not sufficient to sustain long-term growth or to assert effective regional leadership. In an increasingly interconnected global economy, the imperative is clear: West Africa must transcend fragmented national pursuits and pursue greater regional integration,” he said.

    The Minister affirmed that by leveraging the collective demographic advantage of over 400 million people and unlocking the latent potential embedded in the region’s shared markets, West Africa can cultivate a more resilient and inclusive regional economic architecture.

    “Such a collaborative approach is not merely desirable; it is essential for sustainable development, competitive positioning, and the realisation of a common prosperity across the sub-region,” Tuggar stated.

    According to him, WAES focuses on deliverables, identifying the appropriate tools, policies, infrastructure, and financing, and deploying them to facilitate business in West Africa, making it faster, cheaper, and more predictable.

    Pernod Ricard Nigeria Celebrates World Environment Day with Bold Sustainability Actions

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    blacktalker
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    Pernod Ricard Nigeria Celebrates World Environment Day with Bold Sustainability Actions

    In celebration of World Environment Day 2025, Pernod Ricard Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and the circular economy through impactful recycling and environment friendly initiatives.

    Guided by its global Sustainability & Responsibility roadmap, “Good Times from a Good Place,” the company’s operations are anchored on four strategic pillars: Nurturing Terroir, Valuing People, Circular Making, and Responsible Hosting.

    These pillars align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reflect Pernod Ricard’s long-term dedication to environmental stewardship.

    This year’s World Environment Day theme:: “Beat Plastic Pollution,” underscores the urgent need to tackle plastic waste. While Pernod Ricard Nigeria primarily uses glass packaging, the company continues to lead by example in sustainable packaging and recycling innovation.

    One of its standout initiatives is the Jameson Upcycled Bottle Christmas Tree, unveiled in December 2022. Constructed from approximately 2,500 repurposed Jameson bottles, the installation served as both a striking visual statement and an educational platform promoting eco-consciousness and responsible consumption.

    The project also supported Lagos State’s environmental agenda, reinforcing community engagement and shared responsibility.

    Since 2021, Pernod Ricard Nigeria has partnered with Let’s Do It Nigeria, the official representative of World Clean-Up Day. This collaboration has mobilized over 26,000 volunteers, resulting in the collection of more than 2,800 tons of waste across 28 states.

    The company has also contributed to the planting of over 6,000 trees nationwide—tangible steps toward restoring Nigeria’s green landscape.

    Speaking on the company’s environmental efforts, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Michael Ehindero stated: “We eliminated single-use plastics from our operations as far back as 2021 and continue to reduce our environmental footprint by prioritizing reusable and recyclable packaging.

    ”As part of our sustainable packaging journey, we’ve phased out single-bottle cartons for brands such as Jameson Irish Whiskey, Chivas Regal, and Imperial Blue Whisky. Our actions are guided by five key principles: Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Respect.”

    These initiatives are integral to Pernod Ricard’s 2030 Sustainability & Responsibility Roadmap, particularly under the Circular Making pillar and reflect the company’s enduring commitment to a healthier planet for future generations.

    About Pernod Ricard Nigeria

    Established in 2012, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, is a member of the Pernod Ricard Group, a worldwide leader in the spirits and wine industry, blending traditional craftsmanship, state-of-the-art brand-building, and global distribution technologies.

    Its prestigious portfolio of premium to luxury brands includes Absolut vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes.

    Our mission is to ensure the long-term development of our brands with full respect for people and the environment while empowering our employees around the world to be ambassadors of our purposeful, inclusive, and responsible culture of authentic conviviality.

    Eid el Kabir: LAWMA Urges Residents to Embrace Proper Waste Management

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    blacktalker
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    LAWMA Steps Up Crackdown on Indiscriminate Dumping Across Lagos

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA has urged residents to embrace proper waste management, to ensure a clean and healthy environment during and after this year’s Id-el-Kabir celebration.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, the Managing Director/CEO Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, assured residents that extensive provisions have been made to handle the anticipated increase in waste generation throughout the Sallah period.

    He noted that waste management services would be provided across all designated routes, ensuring seamless evacuation of refuse in every part of the city.

    He said, “Eid-el-Kabir is a season of joy, gratitude, and communal harmony. While residents celebrate with their families and loved ones, we must all remain mindful of our civic duties, especially in relation to the environment.

    Proper handling and disposal of animal waste, food remnants, and packaging materials are non-negotiable if we are to maintain the standards of hygiene we all desire.”

    He said LAWMA officials and enforcement teams, would be monitoring field operations and waste disposal activities around the metropolis, to ensure compliance with best practices, during and after the festivities.

    Gbadegesin appealed to residents to avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse on road medians, drainage channels, and open spaces, stressing that such actions compromised public health and would attract penalties. He also urged butchers and livestock dealers to make use of approved slaughter facilities across the state and to minimise contamination and maintain sanitary standards in line with public health regulations.

    While wishing the Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyful celebration, Gbadegesin reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to maintaining environmental cleanliness, not just during festive periods but throughout the year, appealing to Lagosians to support the Authority’s efforts by bagging their waste properly, containerising and ensuring timely evacuation through assigned PSP operators.

    In a related development, LAWMA has joined its counterparts across the globe to commemorate 2025 World Environment Day, marked every 5th June. This year’s theme, “Putting an End to Plastic Pollution”, places emphasis on the urgent need to save the environment from the dangers of plastic pollution.

    The LAWMA boss noted that the theme resonated deeply with the agency’s ongoing mission to transform Lagos into a cleaner and healthier city, by tackling the menace of plastic pollution, noting that environmental restoration was not a one-time event but a sustained process that began with individual choices and community-based action.

    He also stated that LAWMA had commenced a series of advocacy and clean-up initiatives in collaboration with environment stakeholders, schools and community-based organisations, aimed at encouraging environmental ownership at the grassroots level.

    The LAWMA boss called on market associations, religious leaders and neighborhood groups, to help educate their members on how small daily actions, such as clearing gutters, separating recyclables, or discouraging street dumping, could lead to meaningful and positive long-term ecological impact.

    He concluded by stressing that World Environment Day 2025 offered an opportunity for every Lagos resident to recommit to building a healthier and more sustainable future, urging all stakeholders to reflect on the consequences of environmental neglect and join hands with government agencies to restore and protect the ecosystem that sustains lives and livelihoods in the state.

    For further information or to report any waste management issues, residents are advised to contact LAWMA through its official lines: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 or 617 or send an email to info@lawma.gov.ng.

    LASWA Partners Lekan Bakare Foundation to Mark World Oceans Day

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    blacktalker
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    LASWA Partners Lekan Bakare Foundation to Mark World Oceans Day

    As part of activities marking the 2025 World Oceans Day Celebration, the Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA has joined forces with the Lekan Bakare Foundation in a community-focused engagement at Ago Egun, Makoko.

    The event which held on June 4, 2025 with the theme: “Strengthening Community Compliance for Safer Waterways and Sustainable Fishing,” featured enlightening lectures aimed at raising awareness about the importance of safety, environmental responsibility and sustainable fishing practices among coastal dwellers.

    Key stakeholders present included representatives from the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), and the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, who all contributed expert insights and practical knowledge tailored to the unique needs of the Ago Egun community.

    As part of LASWA’s commitment to enhancing safety on Lagos inland waterways, life jackets were donated to local fishermen to promote safe practices during daily fishing and water transportation activities.

    Speaking at the event, LASWA representatives emphasized the agency’s continued dedication to community outreach, water safety education, and collaborative partnerships that protect both people and marine resources.

    LASWA Partners Lekan Bakare Foundation to Mark World Oceans Day

    This engagement marks another step forward in fostering responsible waterway use and empowering coastal communities to become active stewards of their environment.

    EID-UL-ADHA 2025: FRSC LAGOS SECTOR COMMAND DEPLOYS PERSONNEL, LOGISTICS FOR SAFE TRAVEL

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    blacktalker
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    EID-UL-ADHA 2025: FRSC LAGOS SECTOR COMMAND DEPLOYS PERSONNEL, LOGISTICS FOR SAFE TRAVEL

    In anticipation of increased vehicular movement across Lagos and its environs during the Sallah, the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, RS2.1 Lagos Sector Command, under the leadership of Corps Commander Kehinde G. Hamzat, has rolled out a comprehensive traffic management and safety plan to ensure a safe and hitch-free celebration.

    As part of its special Sallah operations, the Command is deploying 1,600 regular staff, 1,542 Special Marshals, 41 patrol vehicles, 10 power bikes, 5 tow trucks and 5 ambulances.

    In statement by the Sector Public Education Officer, Elizabeth Jayeola, the Command says these resources will be strategically positioned across major highways and critical corridors in Lagos State to ensure free flow of traffic, prompt response to road traffic crashes, rapid clearance of obstructions, sustained public enlightenment, effective enforcement operations

    Jayeola notes that FRSC Lagos will be working in synergy with sister agencies and emergency responders to maintain order, provide security, and safeguard lives and properties throughout the festive period.

    She quotes the Sector Commander, Corps Commander Kehinde G. Hamzat, as strongly advising all road users to adhere strictly to traffic rules and regulations, emphasizing that safety is a shared responsibility.

    His advice to the motoring public includes: plan your journeys early, avoid night travels, ensure your vehicles are roadworthy, do not drink and drive, obey speed limits and use seatbelts at all times.

    Others are avoid use of phones while driving, commercial drivers must avoid overloading and motorcyclists should stay off expressways and wear safety gear.

    He stress that FRSC personnel will be visible, proactive, and the success of the operations depends on the cooperation of all road users.

    ”Let us work together to ensure this Eid-ul-Adha is crash-free and filled with joy.”

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