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Apapa Customs Gets Commendation on Revenue, Seizures

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Apapa Customs Gets Commendation on Revenue, Seizures

The Zonal Coordinator, Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Mohammed Babandede, has commended the Apapa Area Command for its outstanding performance in revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations and trade facilitation in 2025.

Babandede gave the commendation on Thursday, February 5, 2026, during a familiarisation visit to the Command, where he praised officers and men for exceeding their annual revenue target despite operational challenges.

Addressing personnel, the Zonal Coordinator said the visit was aimed at appreciating the Command’s achievements, understanding its challenges and boosting the morale of officers who have consistently delivered beyond expectations.

He described the Command’s revenue performance as commendable and reflective of dedication and professionalism.

He also lauded the Command’s sustained anti-smuggling efforts, particularly the interception of narcotics and other illicit substances such as cocaine and tramadol.

According to him, such seizures are critical to safeguarding national security, public health and societal wellbeing, stressing that effective enforcement is essential for legitimate trade to flourish.

Babandede noted that while revenue generation remains important, the core mandate of the Service also covers national security, public safety and trade facilitation.

He therefore urged officers to continue strengthening collaboration with sister agencies, especially in the deployment of trade facilitation tools that have enhanced the Service’s operational standing.

The Zonal Coordinator further charged officers on integrity, reputational management, mentorship and capacity building, calling on senior officers to deliberately transfer knowledge and experience to younger personnel.

He also highlighted the importance of officers’ welfare and health, disclosing that drug tests would be conducted across Commands and advising officers to remain health-conscious for effective service delivery.

In his response, the Customs Area Controller, Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, expressed appreciation for the Zonal Coordinator’s visit, describing it as timely and motivating.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining high performance in revenue generation, enforcement, trade facilitation, inter-agency collaboration and ethical conduct, in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023 and the policy direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs.

Oyo/Osun Customs Reaffirms Stronger Collaboration with International Breweries Plc

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blacktalker
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Oyo/Osun Customs Reaffirms Stronger Collaboration with International Breweries Plc

The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS has reiterated its commitment to deepening strategic collaboration with key stakeholders, including International Breweries Plc, to enhance operational efficiency and optimise revenue generation.

This assurance was given on Thursday, February 5, 2026, when a delegation from International Breweries Plc, Ilesha, paid a courtesy visit to the Operational Headquarters of the Command as part of efforts to strengthen existing cooperation between the excise factory and the Service.

Receiving the delegation, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Wale Moses Adewole, expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a clear demonstration of the company’s commitment to institutional partnership.

He acknowledged International Breweries Plc as a critical stakeholder of the Nigeria Customs Service and commended the company for its consistent compliance with provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act governing excise operations.

DC Adewole emphasised that sustained synergy between the Service and excise factories is vital to the achievement of Customs’ core mandates, particularly in trade facilitation, regulatory compliance and revenue generation.

He solicited the continued cooperation of the company, assuring it of the Command’s commitment to maintaining a transparent, efficient and conducive operational environment that supports mutual growth.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Operational Manager of International Breweries Plc, Ilesha, Mr. Emmanuel Onabanjo, thanked the Acting Customs Area Controller and principal officers of the Command for the warm reception accorded to his team.

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to a strong and productive relationship with the Nigeria Customs Service and pledged sustained cooperation in meeting all statutory obligations.

Mr. Onabanjo also assured the Command of the factory’s readiness to provide timely information and necessary support to Customs officers deployed to the facility to ensure the effective discharge of their duties.

Lagos Launches Household Used Cooking Oil Collection Kiosks to Boost Biofuel Economy, Protect Environment

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blacktalker
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Lagos Launches Household Used Cooking Oil Collection Kiosks to Boost Biofuel Economy, Protect Environment

The Lagos State Government has launched a Household Used Cooking Oil Collection Point Kiosk Initiative aimed at promoting environmental sustainability, improving public health and unlocking the state’s biofuel potential.

The initiative, driven by the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, is being implemented in collaboration with Oruro Waste Management and Shell Foundation. It was unveiled at a stakeholders’ engagement in Lagos.

Under the programme, used cooking oil collection kiosks will be deployed across all LASEPA zonal offices in the state, providing households, food vendors, restaurants and market operators with structured channels to safely dispose of used cooking oil while earning incentives.

Speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, said the initiative aligns with global climate change standards and Lagos State’s commitment to environmental protection and public health.

He noted that Nigeria ranks among the top countries globally with the capacity to supply used cooking oil for biofuel production due to its population size and oil-based cooking culture.

Dr. Ajayi disclosed that the state plans to unlock a minimum of a $20 million biofuel market, with projections of up to $50 million in economic value, through the expansion of structured used cooking oil collection.

He explained that while the initiative was introduced two years ago, the current phase places deliberate emphasis on households, which generate about 50 to 60 per cent of used cooking oil.

“All LASEPA zonal offices, including the agency’s headquarters, will serve as collection points. Residents can exchange their used cooking oil for cash, fresh oil or other reward items. This initiative will support livelihoods, improve food quality, enhance public health and prevent environmental pollution,” he said.

Speaking further, Dr. Ajayi described the project as a landmark achievement that underscores Lagos State’s leadership in environmental sustainability, recycling and climate action.

He revealed that the pilot phase is expected to collect between 30 and 40 tonnes of used cooking oil, with future phases targeting residential estates, gated communities and tertiary institutions.

Delivering goodwill messages on behalf of the LASEPA zonal directorates, Mr. Abiodun Ogunleye and Mr. Andrew warned that poor waste management poses significant environmental risks.

They commended the agency’s leadership for partnering with Oruro Waste Management and praised the Heat Management Unit of LASEPA, led by Mr. Ari Dengbe, for driving the project. They assured that all 20 zonal offices would actively support the initiative at the grassroots level.

Also speaking, the Director of Partnerships, Grant Management and Innovation, Mrs. Olabisi Shonibare, described the programme as a practical demonstration of the state’s zero-waste agenda.

She noted that most waste streams are now recyclable and expressed optimism that the initiative would be expanded across the state’s 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Union Affairs (Tertiary Education) commended LASEPA for intentionally involving youths, describing the initiative as impactful and empowering.

He thanked Oruro Waste Management and Shell Foundation for selecting Lagos as the pilot state and urged sustained collaboration among stakeholders.

Similarly, the Director of Air Quality Management, Mrs. Ayodele Oso, and the Director of Environmental Sustainability, Mrs. Dayo Adedayo Adebayo, described the programme as eco-friendly and inclusive, noting its potential to drive recycling and value creation at the community level.

In a technical presentation, the Managing Director and Project Lead of Oruro Waste Management, Mr. Ayo Banjo, highlighted the environmental and health benefits of proper used cooking oil management. He warned that repeated reuse of cooking oil increases carcinogenic risks, while improper disposal contributes to drainage blockage, flooding and disease outbreaks.

Mr. Banjo explained that the initiative promotes a circular economy by financially rewarding households for responsible waste management, while creating dignified livelihoods for waste pickers, youths and other actors across the value chain.

He added that Shell Foundation’s support has expanded access to micro-entrepreneurship opportunities, particularly for low-income communities.

Participants were informed that contributors can earn rewards through cash payments, fresh oil exchanges, household items or discount tokens, depending on the volume supplied. Stakeholders noted that the initiative will position Lagos as a key player in the global biofuel supply chain while improving public health, reducing flooding and strengthening the informal economy.

Ogun Police Arrest Suspect for Unlawful Exhumation, Recovery of Human Heads

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blacktalker
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Ogun Police Dismiss Curfew Rumours, Assure Residents of Safety

Operatives of the Shakura Police Division in Ogun State have arrested a suspect, Gafaru Rasaki, for the unlawful exhumation of corpses, following the recovery of four human heads in his possession.

The arrest took place on January 21, 2026, during an operation by officers of the division. According to police sources, the suspect was apprehended while in possession of the human heads, prompting immediate interrogation and investigation.

Preliminary findings revealed that Rasaki had unlawfully exhumed the human remains from a cemetery, an act described by the police as a gross disregard for corpses and a serious violation of existing laws.

The recovered exhibits were secured by the police, while investigations were concluded to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Upon the completion of investigations, the suspect was charged to court for prosecution in accordance with the law.

Rite Foods Champions Clean Energy Adoption at 2026 Stakeholders’ Forum

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Rite Foods Champions Clean Energy Adoption at 2026 Stakeholders’ Forum

Rite Foods Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable manufacturing and clean energy adoption, convening a high-level multi-stakeholders’ engagement to mark the 2026 International Day of Clean Energy.

The forum, themed “Nigeria’s Clean Energy Transition: Balancing Risks, Trade-offs and Opportunities for Sustainable Growth,” brought together government officials, regulators, energy experts, manufacturers, suppliers, sustainability advocates, and media to explore practical pathways for renewable energy integration across Nigeria’s FMCG sector.

Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Rite Foods, Ekuma Eze, described clean energy as central to the company’s long-term business strategy.

“At Rite Foods, clean energy is not optional; it is a strategic business imperative. Our approach deliberately pursues cleaner, more efficient, and resilient energy solutions that support sustainability, productivity, and business continuity,” he said.

Rite Foods revealed that 95% of its energy consumption comes from cleaner sources, including natural gas and solar power, with diesel accounting for just 5% of its energy mix. This shift has reduced the company’s reliance on carbon-intensive fuels while ensuring consistent delivery of its innovative and award-winning products nationwide.

The company’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Seleem Adegunwa, highlighted that energy resilience is critical to business continuity, and that embedding sustainability into operations strengthens competitiveness, efficiency, and long-term growth.

Delivering the keynote address, Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy to the Governor of Lagos State, emphasized that Nigeria’s clean energy transition is both an environmental necessity and a strategic economic opportunity.

She noted that the country’s energy landscape, characterized by limited electricity access and reliance on biomass and generators, poses health and environmental challenges. Oshodi commended Rite Foods for demonstrating strong private-sector leadership in advancing clean energy adoption.

The forum featured a panel discussion addressing policy frameworks, technological innovation, financing models, and the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable industrial growth.

General Manager, Operations, Rite Foods, Femi Ajileye, explained that investments in clean energy and efficiency lower long-term operating costs, enhance predictability in energy spending, and improve manufacturing competitiveness.

Beyond sourcing cleaner energy, Rite Foods has implemented disciplined energy management practices, modern equipment, automation, and process optimization to reduce environmental impact, lower production energy intensity, and reinforce cost efficiency.

The engagement also featured goodwill messages from the Food and Beverages Recycling Alliance (FBRA), Federal Ministry of Environment, Sterling One Foundation, and GZI Industries, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in accelerating Nigeria’s clean energy transition.

Experts at the forum concluded that a balanced, inclusive, and data-driven approach to clean energy adoption can drive innovation, green jobs, and sustainable economic growth.

Dangote Refinery Denies Import Claims

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blacktalker
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Dangote Refinery Denies Import Claims

Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, DPRP has refuted reports suggesting it imports finished petroleum products, describing the allegations as false and misleading.

The refinery reiterated its commitment to producing high-quality, internationally compliant fuel for Nigerians.

Speaking at a media briefing, DPRP Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, David Bird, explained that the refinery’s processing of intermediate or semi-processed feedstocks is standard practice in the global refining industry and does not constitute importing finished products.

Bird emphasized that the refinery operates on a European and Asian merchant refinery model, integrating advanced refining, blending, and trading systems to meet modern environmental and quality standards. “DPRP produces high-quality fuels aligned with international environmental and health standards.”

”Our gasoline is lead-free and MMT-free with 50 parts per million sulphur, while our diesel meets ultra-low sulphur specifications. These standards help reduce emissions, protect engines, and safeguard public health,” he said.

The refinery CEO clarified that semi-finished fuels are unsuitable for vehicles and are not released into the Nigerian market. Samples of both intermediate feedstocks and fully refined products were displayed to journalists during the briefing to demonstrate the difference.

Bird also highlighted DPRP’s role in ending the prevalence of substandard fuel in Nigeria, noting that the refinery’s products are now exported to international markets, reflecting their quality and competitiveness.

He explained that intermediate materials such as naphtha, vacuum gas oil, reformate, alkylate, and isomerate serve as feedstocks for further refining into finished petrol, diesel, and petrochemicals.

The CEO stressed the importance of transparency in operations and engagements with regulators, urging the media to educate the public on the distinction between intermediate feedstocks and finished fuel.

“It is unfortunate that some individuals are deliberately spreading misleading narratives about a refinery that has transformed Nigeria and the West African region into a hub for high-quality products,” he said.

Bird assured Nigerians of continued product availability, noting the refinery’s contribution to easing fuel scarcity, stabilizing the naira, and reducing pressure on foreign exchange.

Group Chief Brand and Communications Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, Anthony Chiejina, also called on journalists to exercise precision in reporting, warning that inaccurate coverage could misinform the public and cause unnecessary panic.

NCC, NSCDC Warn Construction Firms Over Rising Fibre Optic Cable Damage

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blacktalker
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NCC Expresses Optimism Over Efforts to Improve Telecom Service Quality Amid Ongoing Network Expansion

The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC have issued a stern warning to construction companies, government contractors and other stakeholders over the rising incidence of fibre-optic cable damage during road construction and related civil works across the country.

The agencies said incidents of avoidable fibre cuts resulting from negligence would no longer be excused, stressing that offenders risk prosecution as such actions constitute criminal offences.

In a joint statement, the NCC and NSCDC described fibre-optic cables as critical national assets that power Nigeria’s digital economy, support emergency services, enable business operations and facilitate government communications.

They warned that damage to such infrastructure, whether through negligence, poor coordination or deliberate acts, poses a serious threat to national security, economic stability and public safety.

The agencies noted that under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, telecommunications fibre infrastructure has been classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure.

As a result, any damage arising from unauthorised excavation, construction activities or failure to collaborate with relevant authorities during civil works amounts to a criminal offence.

They cautioned that individuals, construction firms and government contractors found liable for damaging fibre-optic infrastructure would face prosecution and appropriate sanctions in line with existing laws, including the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.

The NCC and NSCDC further warned that future incidents of fibre damage caused by excavation, road construction or other civil engineering activities carried out without due consultation with network operators and regulators would attract strict legal consequences.

The agencies called on federal, state and local government bodies, road construction companies, utility service providers and private developers to ensure full compliance by verifying fibre routes before construction, collaborating with the NCC, telecom operators and NSCDC during project execution, adhering to approved excavation and right-of-way guidelines, and promptly reporting any accidental damage for swift mitigation.

Members of the public are also encouraged to report acts of fibre-optic infrastructure sabotage or damage to the nearest NSCDC office, or through the designated email addresses and toll-free line provided by the agencies.

2026 WCD: CAPPA Urges Government to Fix Nigeria’s Broken Food System to Tackle Cancer

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blacktalker
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2026 WCD: CAPPA Urges Government to Fix Nigeria’s Broken Food System to Tackle Cancer

As the world marks 2026 World Cancer Day with the theme “United by Unique,” Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA, has called on the Nigerian government to urgently address what it described as a broken food system contributing to the country’s rising cancer burden.

In a statement issued to commemorate the day, CAPPA said cancer is no longer a distant threat in Nigeria but a growing public health crisis, with no fewer than 72,000 cancer-related deaths and over 120,000 new cases recorded annually, citing figures from the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment.

The organisation noted that while genetic and environmental factors contribute to cancer incidence, growing evidence links the increasing cases of colorectal, breast and prostate cancers to unhealthy diets and the way food is produced and marketed in the country.

CAPPA therefore urged federal and state governments to adopt proactive measures aimed at fixing structural weaknesses in Nigeria’s food system, which it said are driving the rising prevalence of cancer and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

According to the group, these weaknesses include the unrestricted marketing and consumption of ultra-processed foods, weak regulation of tobacco and emerging nicotine products, and excessive intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and salt.

The organisation called for stronger healthy food policies, including stricter regulation of tobacco and nicotine products, increased funding for tobacco control, the development of national guidelines to reduce salt consumption with mandatory targets for processed foods, and a review of the current sugar-sweetened beverage tax from ₦10 per litre to 50 per cent of the retail price. It also advocated restrictions on the marketing of unhealthy foods to children and clear nutrition standards for schools, hospitals and other public institutions.

Highlighting tobacco as one of the biggest preventable cancer risk factors, CAPPA demanded full implementation of the National Tobacco Control Act, inclusion of new nicotine products in advertising bans, higher tobacco excise taxes adjusted for inflation, and stricter enforcement against illicit tobacco trade.

The organisation also welcomed the federal government’s plan to dedicate pro-health taxes to cancer prevention and care, noting that such funding could help reduce out-of-pocket healthcare spending.

CAPPA further urged governments at all levels to treat cancer control as a development priority, warning that Nigeria’s health sector is overstretched, with about 40,000 doctors serving a population of over 200 million.

“Nigeria cannot treat its way out of the cancer crisis. Prevention-focused policies, particularly around tobacco, food and alcohol, offer the most cost-effective gains. Combined with early detection, sustainable health financing and accountability, they can save thousands of lives each year,” the organisation said.

Lagos Police Arrest Two Suspected Armed Robbers, Recover Firearms in Ajegunle, Ojo

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blacktalker
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LLagos Police Confirm Arrests in Double Murder Case, Declare Key Suspects Wanted

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested two suspected armed robbers and recovered firearms and ammunition during separate intelligence-led operations in Ajegunle and Ojo areas of the state.

According to the Command, operatives of the Tactical Team, Thunder Blast, were deployed to Ajegunle following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected hoodlums who allegedly used commercial motorcycles while armed to rob unsuspecting members of the public.

The operation led to the arrest of one Waheed Orelope, 27. A locally made pistol and two live cartridges were recovered from the suspect during preliminary investigations.

In a similar operation in Ojo, the Surveillance Team of the Ojo Division acted on intelligence reports that hoodlums had taken over the Iyana Iba Under Bridge area, posing a threat to commuters and residents. The team arrested one Wasiu Shonibare, 29, and recovered a locally made pistol from him.

Both suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue to determine their level of involvement and identify other members of the alleged criminal gang. The Command said further developments would be communicated as investigations progress.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to proactive policing and the protection of lives and property across the state.

He urged residents to continue to support the police with timely and credible information through the Command’s emergency lines: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, 08039344870 and 09168630929.

Mikano Motors Donates Max Pickup Vehicles to Lagos Security Trust Fund

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blacktalker
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Mikano Motors Donates Max Pickup Vehicles to Lagos Security Trust Fund

Mikano Motors has donated a fleet of its Max pickup vehicles to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, in a move aimed at strengthening security operations and reinforcing private-sector support for public safety in Lagos State.

The official handover ceremony took place at the Mikano Motors showroom in Victoria Island, Lagos, where senior executives of Mikano International Limited, led by its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mofid Karameh, received top officials of the LSSTF, led by its Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan. The event featured a tour of the showroom and a formal presentation of the vehicles.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Karameh commended Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for what he described as significant investments and commitment to safety and security, noting that improved security is translating into economic growth and prosperity for the state. He said the Governor’s engagement with private-sector leaders at the recent LSSTF Private Sector Breakfast Meeting provided clarity on the scale of government efforts in securing Lagos.

Karameh assured that Mikano International would continue to support initiatives aimed at strengthening the state’s security architecture.

In recognition of the donation, Dr. Ogunsan presented the LSSTF Distinguished Honour Award to Mikano International Limited, which was accepted by Mr. Karameh on behalf of the company.

Earlier, the National Operations Manager of Mikano, Mr. Syam Abdulkadir, who conducted the official handover, said the donation reflected the company’s long-standing commitment to the safety and wellbeing of Lagos residents. He noted that Mikano’s over three decades of operation in Nigeria underscored its dedication to nation-building, economic development and security.

Receiving the vehicles, Dr. Ogunsan praised Mikano for being the first corporate organisation to respond to the call for increased private-sector participation following the Governor’s fundraising engagement with business leaders. He said the LSSTF welcomes not only financial contributions but also equipment and operational resources that can enhance security response across the state.

Dr. Ogunsan urged Lagos residents and Nigerians at large to support organisations that contribute to public safety, adding that the donated vehicles would be deployed responsibly to strengthen security operations.

He assured that the LSSTF would make judicious use of the vehicles in line with its mandate to support security agencies and safeguard lives and property in Lagos State.

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