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By Robert Egbe When, during the 1920s, the American public began to identify smoking as the cause of their persistent cough, throat irritation, and other related diseases, tobacco companies – fearing a threat to their profits – began a devious media blitz. Using mostly models who posed as doctors, they falsely claimed that cigarettes were harmless or that some cigarette brands were less harmful than others. Almost 90 years after, the tobacco and allied industries, especially Big Tobacco – the world’s four largest transnational tobacco companies and their subsidiaries that keep the tobacco epidemic going – are still neck deep in the business of duping people that their products are “less harmful.” Conscious that smoking’s deadly effects have been exposed, but driven by the stupendous profits they make from producing and selling products of death and diseases, Big Tobacco is relentlessly devising new means to remain in their noxious business. Top among the addictive novel products the in...

  The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has received commendations from local government officials and a delegation of retired senior security officers for his proactive and community-focused approach to policing in the state. The accolades came during a courtesy visit by the Chairman of Ezeagu Local Government Area, Dr. Vita Ndu, and members of the Eche Obodo Security Group, a coalition of retired security chiefs from the Enugu North Senatorial Zone. Dr. Ndu praised CP Giwa’s swift response and decisive action in the aftermath of a recent kidnapping and ritual killing incident in Umuojor, Isiagu Umumba Autonomous Community. He described the Police Command’s intervention as timely and effective in restoring calm and reassuring the community. Speaking on behalf of the Eche Obodo group, retired Major General Godwin Ugwuoke highlighted the notable improvements in security under CP Giwa’s leadership. The delegation, which included former Commissioners ...

The Nasarawa State Police Command has recorded a major security success following the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, live ammunition, and a suspected stolen motorcycle in the Giza area of Keana Local Government. According to a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, the operation was conducted on June 7, 2025, after the Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, received credible intelligence about the movement of a suspected criminal transporting illegal arms. Acting on the intelligence, police operatives from the Giza Division mounted a strategic stop-and-search operation along the Giza–Kadarko Road. During the exercise, officers attempted to intercept a man riding an unregistered Bajaj motorcycle. The suspect, upon sighting the police, abandoned the motorcycle and fled into the surrounding bush. A search of the abandoned motorcycle led to the recovery of: One AK-47 rifle (Breach No. 0413), two magazines, forty-five rounds of 7.62x39mm liv...

— Festival Coordinator Says Ijebu Land Does Not Endorse Tobacco Use Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on the Awujale of Ijebuland, His Royal Majesty Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, to declare this year’s Ojude Oba festival a smoke-free event in order to protect public health and cultural values. The appeal was made in a statement issued on Friday ahead of the annual festival scheduled for Sunday, June 8, at the Dipo Dina International Stadium in Ijebu Ode. Themed “Ojude Oba: Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future,” the 2025 edition is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of participants and tourists from within and outside Nigeria. CAPPA urged the Awujale and the festival’s Organising Committee to prohibit smoking, tobacco advertising, and brand promotions at all festival locations, including parade routes and communal gathering areas. The group also recommended setting up designated health stations to educate attendees about the dangers ...

. Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Mamman Giwa The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Giwa, has extended warm greetings to the Muslim community in Enugu State and across Nigeria as they celebrate the 2025 Eid-ul-Adha. In a press release issued on Thursday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, CP Giwa urged the Muslim Ummah to celebrate responsibly and to uphold the core values of obedience, sacrifice, and peaceful coexistence that define the sacred festival. As part of measures to ensure a peaceful celebration, the Commissioner has ordered the massive and strategic deployment of police personnel and resources across Enugu State. The deployment will cover Eid prayer grounds, markets, highways, recreational centres, and other public spaces where large gatherings are expected. “The deployment is aimed at guaranteeing the safety and security of residents during and beyond the Sallah celebrations,” the statement read. CP Giwa directed Area Commanders, Divis...

Nigeria’s push to unlock the full potential of its marine and blue economy just got a boost - thanks to renewed collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. On Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olukayode Egbetokun hosted the CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. The high-level meeting brought together senior police officers and maritime stakeholders to reinforce a critical message: security is key to economic growth. Why It Matters Ports, waterways, and maritime transport are the lifeblood of Nigeria’s trade and a central pillar of the blue economy agenda. But without proper enforcement, monitoring, and protection, the sector faces threats ranging from cargo theft to regulatory non-compliance. That’s where the Nigeria Police Force comes in. Dr. Akutah praised the Police for their vital support in upholding port standards and enhancing transparency and efficiency ...

On June 3, 2025, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, launched a powerful new initiative, the Partnership to Eliminate Cervical Cancer in Nigeria (PECCIN), a national campaign that aims to make cervical cancer a thing of the past. Cervical cancer is currently the second most common cancer among women in Nigeria, after breast cancer. It silently claims the lives of thousands, particularly those in vulnerable communities. But the good news? It’s preventable. A National Commitment, A Renewed Hope At the launch event, the First Lady emphasized that now is the time for united action. Her message was clear: “Cervical cancer is a silent killer. Yet, this is a cancer that is preventable. Together, we must invest in a future where no woman dies from a disease that can be stopped.” This campaign supports the World Health Organization's 2030 goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health issue. That goal is ambitious, but Nigeria is showing that it’s possible. Turning the Tid...

Global philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has been conferred with one of Nigeria’s highest national honours - Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR). The award was presented by President Bola Tinubu during a ceremony in Lagos on Tuesday night.  The prestigious honour recognizes Gates’ long-standing contributions to global health, development, and education - including significant support for Nigeria through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Why the Honour Matters The CFR title is one of the highest honours the Nigerian government can bestow on a non-citizen. Bill Gates has been a key supporter of public health campaigns in Nigeria, especially in areas like polio eradication, malaria prevention, and maternal health. Through the Gates Foundation, billions of naira have been invested in Nigeria’s health sector, education reform, and agricultural innovation — all aimed at improving the lives of millions. A Strong Message of Appreciation By awarding ...

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria, has officially refuted a viral claim that the English Language paper in the ongoing 2025 WASSCE for School Candidates has been cancelled. The false report, which circulated widely across social media platforms, alleged that the English exam held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, had been invalidated and that a new date would soon be announced. In a statement released by Acting Head, Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, WAEC clarified that no such cancellation has taken place and that the information did not originate from the Council. “The said examination has not been cancelled,” WAEC stated. “Although the source of the information remains unknown, it is clear that this false claim is being peddled by mischief-makers bent on discrediting the Council and creating unnecessary panic among candidates.” WAEC emphasized that any official communication from the Council is always shared through its verified social media h...

On Sunday, June 8, 2025, Lagos will join the rest of the world in celebrating World Oceans Day, a moment to reflect on the beauty and importance of our oceans, lagoons, and waterways - and why we must do more to protect them. This year’s theme, “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us,” couldn’t be more relevant. From the shores of Tarkwa Bay to the bustling waterfronts of Victoria Island, Lagos’ waters are more than picturesque views. They feed families, support livelihoods, regulate the climate, and are home to rich marine life. But today, these water bodies are under increasing threat. Pollution, overfishing, and illegal dredging are placing enormous pressure on aquatic ecosystems, and the consequences are becoming harder to ignore. Fish stocks are dwindling. Beaches are littered. And the delicate balance of nature is slowly being disrupted. That’s why the Lagos State Government - through the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development - is using this year’s World Oceans Day as a ...

As Nigeria marks 14 years since the enactment of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has called on public institutions at all levels of government to fully and effectively implement the law, citing widespread non-compliance and systemic resistance that continue to undermine its impact. In a statement released on Wednesday in Lagos, MRA commended the FOI Act’s role in promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance since it was signed into law on May 28, 2011. However, the organization expressed concern over the continued failure of many government agencies to uphold their responsibilities under the law. MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, Mr. Ayode Longe described the FOI Act as a vital democratic tool, saying it enables citizens to hold public officials accountable and plays a critical role in the fight against corruption. “Yet, too many public institutions continue to treat the Act with disdain,” he said. “They ignore or reject...

  A building collapse in the Ikorodu area of Lagos has left three people dead and nine others injured, according to emergency officials. The incident occurred at Otta Ona Junction, near the Mobil Filling Station Bus Stop, where a two-storey structure under construction suddenly gave way. The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) responded swiftly, deploying its Lion, Tiger, and Eagle Response Teams from Agbowa, Alausa, and Cappa. On arrival, responders discovered three individuals trapped beneath the rubble. Sadly, all were later recovered lifeless. The deceased include two adult males and a teenage girl. Nine adult males were rescued alive and received immediate medical attention from the LASEMA Pre-Hospital Care Unit. Though the exact cause of the collapse remains unknown, officials have commenced investigations. Emergency crews are in the process of deconstructing the unstable structure to ground level, to prevent further danger. Rescue operations were aided by the de...

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on examination malpractice as the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates continues nationwide. In a statement released on Tuesday, WAEC noted that the examination, which began in April, has proceeded smoothly despite initial challenges. The Council, however, raised concerns about ongoing attempts by some individuals to compromise the integrity of the exams through illegal online platforms and social media. WAEC warned that candidates found sharing or receiving live questions and answers via the internet would have their results withheld pending investigation, and may face outright cancellation of their results if found guilty. The Council added that such cases may also be referred to the Nigeria Police Force for further action. To reinforce security and transparency, WAEC said it is continuing the use of its Candidates Identity Verification, Attendance, ...

By Esi-ife Arogundade World Hypertension Day is observed annually in May, serving as a reminder of the importance of blood pressure awareness and management. This global health initiative carries even more significance as the world continues to adapt to lifestyle changes, rising stress levels, and an increasing prevalence of hypertension.  Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition when the blood pressure in the blood vessels is continuously elevated. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your blood vessels, the higher your blood pressure.  High blood pressure typically does not cause symptoms, but in the long-term can result in coronary artery disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, arrhythmia, dementia, heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases, making awareness and regular monitoring of blood pressure vital. This absence of symptoms and because it is also a major cause of premature death, affecting millions worldwide, including...

  By Humphrey Ukeaja Imagine walking through a busy Nigerian market, where brightly coloured food packages compete for your attention. From small shops to large malls, a wide variety of items are attractively displayed. However, hidden beneath these colourful wraps is a danger of too much sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats in majority of these products, which are contributing to Nigeria’s growing health problems. Without clear, required Front of Pack warning labels (FOPWL), consumers are denied the basic right to make informed choices. They unknowingly buy more junk food, which significantly increases the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) which currently contributes to 30 percent Annual deaths in Nigeria. As a matter of evidence, a recent report titled Junk on Our Plates by Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) underscores this urgent need for FOPWL. The report, based on investigations across seven Nigerian states, reveals how food and beverage compan...

By Ogunlade Olamide and Esi-Ife Arogundade The fantasy that natural resources are inexhaustible and are always renewable, despite the overwhelming amount of waste generated has been dispelled by the alarming decline of our environmental health. The global waste crisis is staggering. Annually, it is on record that more than 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste are generated, yet a mere 9 percent of plastic waste is recycled worldwide, contributing to around 5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.  The world is struggling to cope with this escalating problem of waste management. In 2019, the Global Material Footprint reached a staggering 85.9 billion tonnes, representing a significant increase from 73.2 billion tonnes a decade earlier, according to the United Nations. Furthermore, the volume of electronic waste, including discarded smartphones, tablets, and other devices, surged by 38 percent in the same year, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable waste management sol...

… 18 rifles, 192 live Ammunition of Various Calibres Recovered in Delta and Kano One Abubakar Usman, also known as Shehu, who was identified as the leader of a deadly kidnapping gang has been arrested and four of his men killed by the police operatives attached to Delta State Command. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi who disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Abuja said Shehu was apprehended on the 10th of April, 2025, during a sting operation on the activities of kidnappers within the state.  ACP Adejobi said upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to multiple crimes including the kidnapping of a medical doctor at Issele-uku, Delta State, the kidnapping of the wife and daughter of Mr Godwin Anuka at Ogwashi-Uku, and his subsequent murder, and also the kidnap and murder of Ms Esther Ojoh at Ibusa.  He explained that the suspect further led operatives to the gang’s hideout in a forest along Asaba/Agbor expressway, where the operatives encountered ...

. The Cadets during the endurance trek and the Commandant of the Nigeria Police Academy, AIG Patrick Atayero. The Nigeria Police Academy has conducted a successful Endurance Trekking Exercise involving its cadets, as part of their routine  police training aimed at instilling discipline, physical fitness, mental resilience, and team cohesion. A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer for the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, DSP Umar Isah said the trekking exercise, which covered a long distance, took cadets through challenging terrains and weather conditions, providing a realistic simulation of field operations.  The statement said the exercise, which was conducted under strict safety protocols, tested their stamina, endurance, navigation skills, and ability to function effectively as a unit under pressure.  The commandant of the Nigeria Police Academy, AIG Patrick Atayero commended the officers and men of the academy.  He further commended the cadets for their...

The Lagos State Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development has intensified its enforcement efforts at the Okunde Bluewater Scheme, located along Lekki Coastal Road, Lekki with a follow-up operation aimed at dislodging illegal occupants and dismantling newly emerging shanties in the area. A statement by the Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Mrs. Akodu Morenikeji said the operation, carried out on Friday, was led by the Commissioner for the Ministry, Ekundayo Alebiosu, who noted that the exercise was a continuation of previous clean-up efforts and serves as a firm deterrent to those attempting to reoccupy government-owned land with unauthorized structures. According to Alebiosu, “We cleared this large expanse of land late last year, and it is no longer business as usual. Any attempts to rebuild shanties or makeshift structures on this site will be met with swift enforcement.” “These structures pose not only an environmental haza...

Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has condemned the directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to radio and television stations across the country not to broadcast the song “Tell Your Papa” by Nigerian rapper Eedris Abdulkareem. The organisation described it a blatant abuse of regulatory power, a violation of constitutional rights, and a dangerous affront to freedom of expression.   The NBC issued a directive dated April 9, 2025 through its Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, Ms Susan Obi, titled “Restriction on broadcasting ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem” and addressed to all broadcast stations, asking them to refrain from airing the song as its content is deemed inappropriate for broadcast due to its alleged objectionable nature.   The Commission claimed that the song “is, therefore, classified as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB), as it violates Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.”   However, in a statement issued in Lagos by its Pro...