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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...