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Host Community Commends Tinubu Over Approval of Crude Oil Drilling in Ogun Waterside

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Host Community Commends Tinubu Over Approval of Crude Oil Drilling in Ogun Waterside

Residents of Makun Omi Kingdom in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State have commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the commencement of commercial crude oil exploration in the area.

The approval covers Eba Island, located within Makun Omi Kingdom, and is expected to mark a major milestone in Ogun State’s quest to become an oil-producing state.

In a statement, the traditional ruler of Makun Omi Kingdom, Oba Kazeem Adeshina Salami, described the presidential approval as the fulfilment of a long-standing aspiration of the host community and the state at large.

The monarch praised Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his efforts in securing the endorsement of President Tinubu for the project, noting that the development would bring significant transformation to Ogun Waterside.

According to Oba Salami, the commencement of commercial oil drilling in the area would promote inclusivity, create economic opportunities, and empower residents of Makun Omi Kingdom and neighbouring coastal communities.

He assured both the Federal and Ogun State Governments of the community’s full support, pledging a peaceful and conducive environment to ensure seamless exploration and production of crude oil in commercial quantities.

The traditional ruler expressed optimism that the project would stimulate development, improve livelihoods, and enhance the socio-economic profile of Ogun Waterside and the state as a whole.

Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command Seizes Expired Imports, Records ₦147bn Revenue in 2025

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blacktalker
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Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command Seizes Expired Imports, Records ₦147bn Revenue in 2025

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command, has intensified its crackdown on expired and falsely declared imports, while recording an outstanding revenue performance in 2025.

The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller B.L. Adigun, disclosed this during a media briefing held on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Addressing journalists, stakeholders, and partner agencies, Adigun reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to facilitating legitimate trade, preventing smuggling, enforcing customs laws, and safeguarding national revenue.

He noted that sustained enforcement, compliance monitoring, and collaboration with relevant agencies remain central to the Command’s operations.

As part of recent enforcement actions, Adigun announced the interception of a 20-foot container, with identification number GESU3900612, found to contain 440 bags of 25kg expired raw material known as Triple Pressed Stearic Acid imported from Indonesia.

The consignment, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦36,556,539.00, was discovered during routine cargo examination and found to violate import regulations while posing potential risks to public health.

He disclosed that the process of handing over the seized container to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, is currently underway, describing the action as a testament to effective inter-agency collaboration aimed at preventing the importation of expired and substandard products into the country.

In a related development, the Acting Controller revealed that a 40-foot container, MSKU 4798018, was intercepted at Joliz Terminal after being falsely declared as zipped luggage.

Further examination revealed that the container actually contained empty suitcases, with a Duty Paid Value of ₦5,010,000.00. He said the seizure reflects the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on false declaration and other trade infractions.

On revenue generation, Adigun disclosed that the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command recorded a total revenue of ₦147,216,149,033.81 in 2025, surpassing its annual target of ₦109,442,892,919.86. He added that the figure also represents a significant improvement over the ₦107,182,674,904.00 recorded in 2024.

According to him, the revenue increase of ₦40,033,474,129.81, representing a 35 percent growth, underscores the effectiveness of improved enforcement strategies, operational efficiency, and enhanced compliance among port users.

Adigun expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and the Customs Management Team for their leadership and support, which he said have created an enabling environment for improved performance.

He also commended officers and men of the Command for their professionalism, dedication, and integrity in combating smuggling and revenue leakages, urging them to sustain high standards of conduct in the discharge of their duties.

The Acting Controller further acknowledged the support of compliant stakeholders and partner agencies, noting that their cooperation has been instrumental to the Command’s achievements.

He concluded by thanking members of the media for their commitment to responsible reporting and assured the public that the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Area Command will continue to block revenue leakages, combat illegal importation, and support national health and security objectives in the year ahead.

NTPIC Begins Stakeholder Engagements, Seeks Humane Implementation of New Tax Acts

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blacktalker
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NTPIC Begins Stakeholder Engagements, Seeks Humane Implementation of New Tax Acts

The National Tax Policy Implementation Committee, NTPIC, has commenced a series of structured stakeholder engagements aimed at ensuring a humane, inclusive and well-coordinated implementation of Nigeria’s newly enacted Tax Acts.

The Committee, chaired by Mr. Joseph Tegbe, says the engagements are designed to bridge the gap between policy intent and execution, promote clarity, manage public expectations and ensure that implementation reflects the realities of businesses, citizens and all tiers of government. NTPIC is working closely with the Nigeria Revenue Service, NRS, and the Presidential Fiscal Policy Reform Committee, PFPRC, as part of the process.

As part of its initial consultations, the leadership of the Committee met with the Presidential Fiscal Policy Reform Committee, led by Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, to align reform objectives with practical implementation realities.

Mr. Oyedele identified misinformation and misinterpretation of certain provisions of the new tax laws as key challenges, noting that public discussions have, in some cases, distorted the intent of the reforms. He said targeted and accessible communication strategies are being developed to address these gaps, with stakeholder feedback expected to shape the implementation process.

In a separate engagement, the NTPIC leadership met with the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, where discussions focused on harmonising implementation priorities and strengthening institutional coordination. The Committee also presented its implementation roadmap and ongoing activities.

Dr. Adedeji commended the Committee’s proactive approach, describing the new tax laws as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s fiscal framework. He noted that while public acceptance of new policies may take time, a transparent, well-sequenced and education-driven implementation process would help build confidence and trust.

The Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, emphasized that the success of tax reforms depends not only on legal and technical design but also on effective communication and sustained stakeholder engagement.

He assured that consultations would continue with key stakeholders, including the National Economic Council, the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, local government leaders, as well as traditional, religious and community leaders.

Mr. Tegbe reiterated that the new Tax Acts are intended to create a simpler, fairer and more predictable tax system that encourages voluntary compliance, strengthens investor confidence and supports sustainable economic growth.

The NTPIC team includes the Chairman of the Stakeholders Engagement Subcommittee, Barrister Ismael Ahmed, and the Chairman of the Technical Subcommittee, Mr. Ajibola Olomola.

JMG Completes Integrated Power, Cooling Upgrade for Quick Buy Supermarket in Kano

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blacktalker
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JMG Completes Integrated Power, Cooling Upgrade for Quick Buy Supermarket in Kano

Engineering solutions provider, JMG, has completed a fully integrated power, cooling and electrical upgrade for Quick Buy Supermarket in Kano State, strengthening the facility’s operational efficiency and reliability.

The project brought together power generation, HVAC and electrical infrastructure into a single coordinated installation, positioning JMG as a leading provider of multi-division engineering solutions in Nigeria.

Quick Buy Supermarket required a reliable system capable of addressing power supply challenges, cooling demands and electrical safety under one platform. Rather than engaging multiple contractors, the supermarket opted for JMG’s turnkey approach, which ensures seamless delivery, operational continuity and long-term stability.

At the core of the upgrade was the installation of a synchronized power generation system by JMG Power. The system comprises two FG Wilson 550kVA generators and one FG Wilson P330kVA unit, integrated with the public power grid.

The configuration now guarantees uninterrupted electricity to support the supermarket’s round-the-clock operations, including lighting, cooling systems, point-of-sale terminals and essential equipment.

In addition, JMG’s climate solutions division, JMG Clima, delivered a comprehensive HVAC installation tailored to the supermarket’s layout and cooling needs.

The system features Trane rooftop units for large-area cooling, supported by ducted systems, VRF technology, standing units, cassette units and fourteen inverter split air-conditioning units. Zoning controls and extractor-integrated ducting were also deployed to ensure efficient airflow and consistent indoor comfort.

The project was concluded by JMG Electra, which carried out a new electrical installation designed to enhance safety, load stability and long-term performance. The upgraded electrical backbone now supports the power and cooling infrastructure with improved reliability and reduced fluctuations.

Speaking on the project, the Branch Manager of JMG Kano, Nader Allam, said the installation reflects the company’s strength in delivering coordinated engineering solutions.

“This project highlights what makes JMG unique, the ability to combine power, cooling and electrical expertise into one complete, coordinated solution. It is a true turnkey installation that prepares the supermarket for long-term growth.”

With the completion of the project, Quick Buy Supermarket now benefits from uninterrupted operations, improved cooling efficiency, enhanced indoor comfort and a safer electrical network.

JMG says the project further reinforces its growing portfolio of large-scale, multi-division installations across Nigeria, as the company continues to deliver end-to-end engineering solutions for commercial and industrial clients nationwide.

LSSTF Donates Operational Vehicles to Lagos Safety Commission, NDLEA Airport Command

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blacktalker
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LSSTF Donates Operational Vehicles to Lagos Safety Commission, NDLEA Airport Command

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, has donated operational vehicles to the Lagos State Safety Commission and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Airport Command as part of efforts to strengthen safety oversight and security operations across the state.

The donations are aimed at improving operational mobility, inspection, surveillance, and enforcement activities of the beneficiary agencies, thereby enhancing safety, security, and the overall wellbeing of residents.

The vehicle for the Lagos State Safety Commission was presented by the Director of Administration of the LSSTF, Mr. Degbola Lewis on behalf of the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan. It was formally received by the Director-General of the Commission, Mr. Mojola Olanrewaju Omololu.

Mr. Omololu expressed appreciation to the Trust Fund, noting that improved logistics would significantly boost the Commission’s capacity to enforce safety standards and promote safer working and living environments across Lagos State.

Similarly, the operational vehicle donated to the NDLEA Airport Command was presented by the Director of Administration of LSSTF, Mr. Degbola Lewis, on behalf of the Executive Secretary.

The vehicle was received by the Commander of Narcotics of the NDLEA Airport Command, CN Akinleye Oluwafunmilayo Peter, alongside other senior officers.

Speaking at the presentation, Mr. Lewis reiterated the Trust Fund’s commitment to supporting frontline security and law enforcement agencies through improved logistics and mobility. He noted that enhanced operational tools are essential for effective surveillance, rapid response, and enforcement duties.

In his remarks, CN Akinleye thanked the LSSTF for the donation, describing it as timely and impactful. She said the vehicle would significantly enhance the Command’s operational efficiency in combating drug trafficking and safeguarding the nation’s airports.

Nigeria Customs Supports Africa’s First Defence and Security Exhibition

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blacktalker
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Nigeria Customs Supports Africa’s First Defence and Security Exhibition

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has reaffirmed its institutional support for Africa’s first comprehensive Defence and Security Exhibition, set to be hosted in Nigeria in 2026.

The event is expected to position the country as a continental hub for defence innovation, security collaboration, and industrial advancement.

The exhibition, named the Africa International Defence and Security Exhibition, AFRIDECS, was unveiled during a courtesy visit by the AFRIDECS Steering Committee to the NCS Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, 21 January 2026.

The delegation was led by Major General Babatunde Alaya, Director-General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, DICON.

Major General Alaya said AFRIDECS would bring together military institutions, security agencies, government ministries, defence manufacturers, and international partners to showcase Nigeria’s indigenous defence manufacturing capacity and technological innovation across land, sea, air, cyber, and space domains.

“AFRIDECS is conceived to showcase indigenous capabilities while leveraging international expertise. It will serve as a convergence point for defence, security, and technology stakeholders to exchange ideas and innovations,” he stated, noting that the exhibition is strategically positioned to become Africa’s premier defence and security showcase.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi assured the Steering Committee that NCS would play a critical role in facilitating the smooth and secure importation of exhibition equipment.

Adeniyi who was represented by Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs Dera Nnadi described the exhibition as not only a security-driven initiative but also an economic, cultural, and diplomatic opportunity for Nigeria.

“This is beyond the security implications. Customs will facilitate legitimate trade while ensuring strict regulatory compliance,” CGC Adeniyi said, highlighting the Service’s readiness to provide seamless processes for temporary imports without compromising national security standards.

Also speaking, DCG Timi Bomodi, in charge of Enforcement, Inspection, and Investigation, commended DICON for initiating a strategic exhibition with far-reaching implications for national security and economic development.

He said AFRIDECS is unique due to the sensitive nature of military hardware and defence equipment to be showcased.

The first-of-its-kind exhibition is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s image as a leader in defence innovation, foster international cooperation, unlock economic opportunities, and reinforce national security, with the Nigeria Customs Service positioned as a key enabler of its success.

Cross Country Transport Limited Trains Drivers on Road Safety, Rewards Outstanding Staff

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blacktalker
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Cross Country Transport Limited Trains Drivers on Road Safety, Rewards Outstanding Staff

Cross Country Transport Limited has organised a road safety training session for over fifty of its drivers under the Drive-to-Own award ceremony, aimed at promoting professionalism, discipline, and compliance within the transport sector.

Managing Director of the company, Omodunni Ogukwa, said the programme recognises staff who demonstrate determination, focus, and dedication in their duties.

She emphasised that drivers play a critical role in connecting rural and urban communities and urged participants to take ownership of their responsibilities, noting that safe and responsible driving contributes to nation-building.

“The role of drivers goes beyond transporting passengers; it is essential for national development. By improving road safety and compliance, we protect lives and make our communities better for everyone,” Ogukwa said.

Speaking at the event, Head of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Yaba Zonal Office, Alex Ukraiaigbe, highlighted that traffic laws exist to protect lives and property, and violations can have serious legal consequences.

He noted that individual responsibility and obedience to the law are fundamental to national development.

Yaba Zonal Head of the Vehicle Inspection Office, Adewale Kelani, noted that regulatory and safety institutions are meant to ensure professionalism and order in the transport sector.

He said professionalism includes decision-making, emotional control, and respect for traffic rules.

On his part, Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos State Command, Kehinde Hamzat who was represented by DCC Bridget Njoku (DCC Training), described driving as a highly sensitive professional responsibility and acknowledged drivers who consistently comply with traffic laws.

Hamzat encouraged participants to maintain high standards despite growing pressures on the roads.

The session concluded with the company recognising and rewarding outstanding drivers, who were also urged to report any issues affecting their operations to ensure ongoing safety and efficiency.

Rights Groups Demand Halt to Demolitions, Resettlement for Makoko, Other Lagos Communities

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blacktalker
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Rights Groups Demand Halt to Demolitions, Resettlement for Makoko, Other Lagos Communities

A coalition of national and international human rights, environmental and social justice organisations has demanded an immediate halt to all demolitions and forced evictions in Lagos waterfront and informal communities, calling for compensation, resettlement and accountability over recent government actions.

The groups, in a joint statement, urged the Lagos State Government to comply fully with existing court orders, provide emergency shelter for displaced residents, ensure access to healthcare and education for affected families, and initiate a transparent resettlement plan developed in consultation with impacted communities.

They also called for compensation for homes, schools, health facilities and livelihoods destroyed during the demolitions, as well as redress for victims of alleged brutality. The coalition further demanded a public apology from the Lagos State Government over the displacement and suffering caused.

The statement condemned what it described as systemic and illegal forced evictions in communities including Makoko, Oworonshoki, Owode Onirin, Otumara and Baba-Ijora, alleging that thousands of residents were displaced with little or no notice, consultation or resettlement arrangements.

According to the groups, several communities have experienced repeated demolitions over the years, citing incidents in Otodo Gbame between 2016 and 2017, Oworonshoki in 2023 and 2025, and Ilaje-Otumara and Baba-Ijora in March 2025, which they say left thousands homeless.

The coalition alleged that in Makoko, demolitions that began in December 2025 affected thousands of homes, forcing residents, including women, children and the elderly, out of their communities. They also claimed that schools, clinics and places of worship were impacted, worsening humanitarian conditions.

The groups accused the Lagos State Government of disregarding court rulings that prohibit forced evictions without due process.

They referenced past judgments restraining the state from demolitions in waterfront communities and awarding damages to affected residents, which they say remain unpaid.

The statement rejected the state government’s plan to provide palliatives, insisting that displaced residents require proper housing, compensation and restoration of livelihoods rather than temporary relief materials.

While acknowledging the government’s responsibility to regulate urban development and ensure public safety, the coalition maintained that genuine urban renewal should be inclusive, participatory and rights-based.

They urged Lagos State to adopt settlement-upgrading models used in other African cities rather than forced evictions.

As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Government had yet to officially respond to the demands.

Ogun Police Arrest Eight Robbery Suspects, Recover 900 Bags of Cement, Others

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blacktalker
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Ogun Police Dismiss Curfew Rumours, Assure Residents of Safety

Ogun State Police Command has arrested eight suspected members of an armed robbery syndicate linked to violent attacks and the hijacking of trailer trucks along the Papalanto–Ilaro and Owode–Idiroko corridors of the state.

The Command said the arrests followed a coordinated intelligence-led operation that also led to the recovery of a hijacked trailer truck, nine hundred bags of cement, and a locally made single-barrel pistol.

According to the police, the operation was carried out by operatives of the Anti-Robbery Squad attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta, on the directive of the Commissioner of Police. T

he operatives were tasked to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance, and covert tracking to dismantle the criminal network.

Through sustained intelligence gathering and crime pattern analysis, detectives successfully identified and penetrated the syndicate, leading to the arrest of eight suspects at different locations across the state.

Those arrested are Mogaji Sodiq, also known as “Ogbonṣ”, Adebowale Lekan, Ajah Peter, Ganiyu Razaq, Odeleye Ayoola, Egboja Amos, Bello Akeem, and Olaifa Sunday.

Investigations revealed that the suspects were intercepted after conveying the hijacked trailer truck, while most of the stolen cement had earlier been offloaded at a warehouse, which was traced and recovered by the police. Further operations led to the recovery of the locally made firearm.

The Command said preliminary investigations indicate that the syndicate had been involved in previous criminal operations targeting commercial supply chains within the state.

it also said efforts are ongoing to track and arrest other fleeing members of the gang, as well as identify accomplices and logistics channels connected to the network, while residents and road users have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency lines.

The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Ogun State Police Command reiterated its commitment to intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention, and the protection of lives and property across the state.

Lagos Police Neutralise Threat to Ikeja Schools, Launch Full Investigation

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CSOs Petition PSC to Probe Lagos CP Over Alleged Assault on Activist Soweto

The Lagos State Police Command has swiftly neutralised a security threat directed at two prominent private schools in Ikeja, following an intelligence-led operation personally coordinated by the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh.

The Command explained that at about 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, the Human Resources Manager and Chief Security Officer of the affected schools separately reported to the Ikeja Divisional Police Headquarters after receiving distress messages via WhatsApp from the same unidentified phone number.

Acting promptly on the reports, CP Jimoh immediately mobilised and led a combined team of police operatives to the school premises.

The team included specialists from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear unit, the Rapid Response Squad, and other tactical formations for immediate assessment and security reinforcement.

It noted that a thorough and painstaking sweep of the school environment, including classrooms, offices, halls, playgrounds, and adjoining areas, was carried out to rule out the presence of improvised explosive devices or other hazardous materials.

No explosive or suspicious items were found, and the schools were subsequently declared safe for academic and administrative activities.

The Commissioner of Police has ordered an intensified investigation to trace and apprehend the sender or senders of the threat messages, with a view to bringing them to justice.

Meanwhile, combined teams of police personnel have been deployed on a permanent basis to the affected schools to ensure round-the-clock security for students, staff, and facilities.

The Lagos State Police Command has assured parents, guardians, school authorities, and residents of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.

Members of the public are also urged to remain calm, vigilant, and promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency numbers.

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