NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
2025 AMEDA: SEC urges financial market transformation drive in Africa, Middle-East
Economy/Business

2025 AMEDA: SEC urges financial market transformation drive in Africa, Middle-East

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has called for joint efforts to drive transformational financial markets across Africa and the Middle East.

 

 

 

Dr Emomotimi Agama, SEC Director-General, made this call at the 2025 Africa and Middle East Depositories Association Conference (AMEDA 2025) in Lagos on Thursday.

 

 

 

The conference, hosted by the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), is with the theme ‘Shaping the Future: Financial Markets and Infrastructures as Catalysts for Transforming Economies’.

 

 

 

Agama, represented by Mr Bola Ajomale, Executive Commissioner, Operations at SEC, said embracing transformational finance is key to staying globally competitive.

 

 

 

He noted this would help build robust capital markets, enhance financial inclusion, and foster regional economic growth and development.

 

 

 

“As regulators and innovators, we must ensure our financial markets grow in a transformational, inclusive, and sustainable way,” he said.

 

 

 

He added that transformational finance deepens inclusion, attracts capital for infrastructure and climate growth, and builds trust across the region.

 

 

 

“The Africa and Middle East regions, though historically underrepresented, are gaining significant momentum,” he said.

 

 

 

He described the regions as emerging frontiers of innovation and growth, with collaboration essential to global financial relevance.

 

 

 

Agama urged that all market infrastructures must be digitally advanced, resilient, and ready for the future.

 

 

 

He highlighted SEC’s digital transformation journey, including real-time market surveillance systems and expanded investor data platforms.

 

 

 

According to him, these efforts aim to support innovation and enable credible alternative asset classes in the market.

 

 

 

Speaking also, Mr Haruna Jalo-Waziri, CSCS Chief Executive Officer, encouraged delegates to drive market transformation in the region.

 

 

 

Jalo-Waziri, also AMEDA Chairman, stressed the need amid digital disruption, demographic shifts, geopolitical tensions, and climate change.

 

 

 

“We must redefine financial markets and their infrastructure as proactive drivers of economic realities,” he said.

 

 

 

He called for resilient markets, inclusive access, sustainable investments, and regional integration across Africa and the Middle East.

 

 

 

Jalo-Waziri urged the audience to reflect deeply on the future of financial market infrastructure.

 

 

 

“How do we create institutions and partnerships that shape future opportunities, not just meet current challenges?” he asked.

 

 

 

He said achieving Nigeria’s proposed $1 trillion economy requires a more inclusive and sophisticated capital market.

 

 

 

Jalo-Waziri, “At CSCS, we’re investing in resilient infrastructure and partnering with innovators to support this journey.

 

 

 

“How do we sustainably expand access to markets for the underserved and unbanked?

 

 

 

“How can infrastructure truly catalyse economic growth and development across our economies?

 

 

 

“How do we build integrated markets across the region to enhance capital flows and attract global investors?”

 

 

 

He stressed that these questions are vital as Nigeria aims to reach a $1 trillion economy.

 

 

 

Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings, emphasised regional cooperation to build financial infrastructure.

 

 

 

He urged AMEDA members to pool resources, share best practices, and leverage regional strengths.

 

 

 

Meanwhile, Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, praised CSCS for driving innovation and excellence in Nigeria’s capital market.

 

 

 

He lauded CSCS’s leadership in AMEDA and its role in shaping regional financial best practices.

 

 

 

Sanwo-Olu noted financial markets are powerful engines for economic transformation through resource mobilisation and entrepreneurship.

 

 

 

He stressed the importance of strong infrastructure — both physical and digital — for enabling economic progress.

 

 

 

The governor said Lagos is committed to infrastructure development, with the 2025 budget prioritising inclusive capital projects.

 

 

 

“Lagos is honoured to host this conference focused on finance and infrastructure as keys to growth,” he said.

 

 

 

He added that the event provides a platform to form partnerships, share knowledge, and chart a bold future. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

NGX lists Nigeria’s first telecom company, Legend Internet Plc
Economy/Business

NGX lists Nigeria’s first telecom company, Legend Internet Plc

236 total views today

By Taiye Olayemi

 

The Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX) on Thursday listed Legend Internet Plc, a Nigerian telecommunications company.

 

Legend’s N2 billion ordinary shares, with a par value of 50 kobo each, were listed at N5.64 per share.

 

The Chairman of NGX Group, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, who welcomed Legend’s board and management, commended the company for its successful listing on the Exchange.

 

He highlighted that listing signifies an elevated commitment to corporate governance and provides opportunities to leverage the Exchange’s diverse asset classes for capital raising.

 

He stated, “As we celebrate this listing, with many more in the pipeline, I commend the management of Legend Internet Plc for this remarkable milestone.

 

“This bold step demonstrates confidence in your business model and growth vision. It also marks the formal emergence of a broadband service as a distinct sub-sector on our Exchange.

 

“Legend has evolved from a focused digital network provider to a diversified technology player, achieving significant advancements in broadband infrastructure development and data services. We anticipate continued growth in the future.

 

“We are still bringing many companies on board the NGX, including Dangote, NNPC and others.

 

“As Africa’s leading exchange, NGX has consistently championed innovation, transparency and sustainable value creation through our investment in cutting-edge infrastructure and a comprehensive range of product offerings, spanning equities, bonds, ETFs and derivatives.”

 

Speaking at the Facts Behind the Listing Ceremony, Legend’s Chairman, Dr Ladi Bada, emphasised that the company, as the first indigenous telecommunications company on NGX, has substantial value to offer the market.

 

Bada encouraged Nigerians to embrace the broadband industry, recognising it as the fastest-growing sector globally.

 

He noted that the company had been instrumental in laying fiber optic cables connecting 250 homes in the Suleja and Abuja environs.

 

He expressed optimism that the Exchange would serve as a catalyst to replicate such commendable projects across other regions of Nigeria.

 

“We are here to create an enabling digital infrastructure to achieve the projected one-trillion dollar economy.

 

“On this special day, Legend Internet takes a bold step forward, not just for itself, but for the broader ecosystem of technology, infrastructure, and enterprise in Nigeria.

 

“As we begin this exciting new chapter as a publicly listed company, we do so with humility and boldness.

 

“We remain committed to continuous innovation, expanding our reach, and delivering value to shareholders and society.

 

“A listing on the Nigerian Exchange is more than a financial event. It is a signal and a declaration that a business is ready to be held to the highest standards of governance, performance, and public trust,” he said.

 

Providing insights into the company’s development, Ms Aisha Abdulaziz, Chief Executive Officer of Legend Internet Plc, stated that the company had evolved from an internet service provider to a comprehensive digital service provider.

 

Abdulaziz noted that with broadband penetration in Nigeria being less than one per cent, Legend Internet was strategically positioned to deepen access.

 

She affirmed the company’s commitment to taking Nigeria’s digital economy to the next level.

 

“When we started Legend, we weren’t just building an internet company; we were building a movement.

 

“A movement fueled by the belief that every Nigerian deserves access to premium, reliable, and high-speed internet, regardless of their location or occupation.

 

“From late nights in our first office to laying fiber across Abuja, to launching products that made people’s lives easier and faster, our journey has always been about connections.

 

“Connecting people to opportunities, connecting homes to entertainment, connecting Nigeria to the digital future it deserves. Our journey has always been about a better way to live.

 

“This listing is a symbol of our commitment to transparency, sustainable growth, and the kind of excellence that outlives hype.

 

“Legend’s primary focus now is on unlocking digital value at the household level,” she said.

 

Mr Jude Chiemeka, Chief Executive Officer of NGX, congratulated the company for making the strategic decision to list.

 

Mr Chiemeka noted that Legend’s listing on NGX now brings the total number of listed securities to 322.

 

Also, Mr Temi Popoola, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Exchange Group, encouraged the investing public to support the newly listed company. (NAN)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

NAPTIP, women lawyers call for synergy to fight human trafficking
General News

NAPTIP, women lawyers call for synergy to fight human trafficking

138 total views today

 

By Adenike Ayodele

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Ikeja Branch, and the National Agency for the Prohibition of trafficking in persons (NAPTIP), have called for synergy with various government agencies to fight human trafficking in Nigeria.

 

They said this at the one-day training organised by the members of the anti-human trafficking committee of the branch in collaboration with NAPTIP on Wednesday in Lagos.

 

The training had the theme: “Strengthening Partnership in Combating Human Trafficking.”

 

Speaking at the training, the Chairperson of FIDA, Ikeja Branch, Mrs Nnenna Eze, stressed the need for other governmental agencies to collaborate and fight against the menace.

 

“What we are doing today is a form of partnership because from the training today we discovered that NAPTIP has been doing a lot.

 

“When we have issues like this we can easily contact NAPTIP, so if other government agencies come together to form partnership, it will strengthen the fight against human trafficking.

 

“If there are synergies among governmental agencies, civil societies and NAPTIP, there will be a tremendous progress in combating human trafficking,” she said.

 

Eze said the training was aimed at enlightening the members of the branch on the rising waves of human trafficking in the country and how to fight it.

 

She said the overriding objectives of FIDA was to protect the rights of children and women.

According to her, trafficking in person is man in-humanity to man.

She said most cases that were handled at the legal clinic of FIDA included domestic and sexual violence which necessitated the need for the training.

“All these forms of violence is linked to human trafficking.

“I had the opportunity to to speak with some 2015 rescued victims of human trafficking last month and I discovered that majority of them were young girls and 60 per cent of them came back with babies.

“We also discover that when these victims reunite with their families, they still face psychological problem from their family members for bringing unwanted babies home.

“So, when these victims approach us, we will know how to go about their case because we are well informed and equipped with this training,” she said.

The Chairperson Committee of the training, Mrs Caroline Ibeh, described the training the as a real eye opener for FIDA members to be well informed.

 

Ibeh, the former Vice Chairperson of FIDA Badagry branch, said the human trafficking was not only about prostitution and could happen anywhere.

She called on government to enforce strict laws to help curb human trafficking.

“The laws are there but are they being enforced?

“The people in high places should allow these laws to manifest because if someone who is well placed in the society involves himself or herself in this menace and he is caught, someone will come from somewhere and kill close the case.

“The laws are there but it is the enforceability we should be working on,” Ibeh said.

The facilitator of the training, Mr Fred Oko, while addressing the participants, said it was a criminal offence to engage a girl or boy below 12-year-old as house help.

 

Oko, the Head of Public Enlightenment Unit, NAPTIP, Lagos Zonal Command, said Traffic in Persons remained unknown until late 1980s.

 

According to him, human trafficking currently generates between $32 and $150 billion yearly with over 27 million people trafficked globally.

 

He identified oath taking, debt bondage, emotional abuse, lies and deception, intimidation and threats as some of the control mechanisms adopted by the traffickers.

 

Oko identified other forms of human trafficking as sexual exploitation, illegal adoption, forced labour, domestic servitude and forced begging.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Insurance industry records N1.2trn gross premium growth in Q3 2024
Economy/Business

Insurance industry records N1.2trn gross premium growth in Q3 2024

162 total views today

 

By Taiye Olayemi

The insurance industry has recorded 61 per cent year-on-year increase in third quarter (Q3) of 2024, reaching N1.2 trillion.

Mr Kunle Ahmed, Chairman of Nigerian Insurance Association (NIA), disclosed this during a quarterly news conference on the performance of the industry by the association in Lagos.

Ahmed said this growth was largely driven by the non-life insurance sector.

He said, “The 2024 performance of the insurance industry revealed a complex landscape marked by significant growth in certain areas alongside persistent and emerging challenges.

“While specific data for the entire year of 2024 is still being consolidated, the trends and available reports offer valuable insights.

“Available data up to the end of the third quarter of 2024 indicated robust growth in gross premiums.

“The report from our regulator noted a 61 per cent year-on-year increase in the third quarter 2024, reaching N1.2 trillion.

“This growth was largely driven by the non-life insurance sector, which constituted approximately 69 per cent of the total premium income.”

Ahmed noted that within the non-life business, fire, oil and gas insurance were significant contributors to the increased revenue.

The chairman explained that all non-life business products showed robust quarter-on-quarter growth.

He said the life insurance business also experienced substantial growth, with the report indicating a 45 per quarter-on-quarter increase within the period under review.

He noted that the Group Life emerged as the largest premium-generating component within the life segment.

“In spite a rise in the net loss ratio in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the first quarter of 2024, the Nigerian insurance market remained profitable overall.

“The total assets reached N3.9 trillion by the end of September 2024, demonstrating a healthy expansion,” he added.

On the impact of the police enforcement on third-party motor insurance, Ahmed said the enforcement process had generated significant effects on the insurance industry and policyholders in Nigeria.

He said that the most immediate and significant impact was the substantial increase in the purchase of third-party motor insurance policies.

He explained that the surge in demand directly translated to higher premium income and overall revenue growth for insurance companies.

According to him, available reports indicate a significant increase in the uptake, as the trend is expected to be amplified by continued enforcement in 2025 and beyond.

“The increase in uptake implies increase in the volume of claims and overall potential liabilities of insurance companies.

“This will necessitate that insurance companies enhance their claims processing efficiency and customer service capabilities to handle the increased workload and ensure policyholder satisfaction.

“Stricter checks by the police make the use of fake or invalid insurance certificates riskier. This enforcement, coupled with the use of the Nigeria Insurance Industry Database (NIID), is expected to reduce the prevalence of fraudulent policies.

“Overall, the stricter enforcement of third-party motor insurance in Nigeria is a crucial step towards ensuring financial protection for road accident victims and improving legal compliance,” Ahmed said.

The chairman noted that policyholders needed to be well informed about the scope and benefits of their third-party insurance policies and how to verify their authenticity to avoid purchasing fake policies.

He said the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) had always advised the populace on verifying insurers on their website. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Tinubu directs security overhaul to end violence 
General News

Tinubu directs security overhaul to end violence 

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By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday directed an immediate overhaul of national security strategies, demanding urgent action to end the escalating violence in Borno, Benue, Plateau and Kwara.

 

The President who met with security chiefs at the State House, Abuja, for more than two hours, said the killing of innocent people in Borno, Benue and Plateau must cease.

 

“Enough is enough,” President Tinubu declared as he once again condemned the senseless targeting of innocent Nigerians, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, said in a statement.

 

Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), told State House correspondents that the service chiefs briefed the President on all the attacks in the states, the death toll, and the destruction of property.

 

The NSA said President Tinubu ordered a new approach to tackling the security challenges.

 

Ribadu noted that the President also actively monitored and gave instructions during his work visit to Paris and London.

 

“Mr President gave us the chance to come and brief him again. It lasted very long. We gave him an update on what was going on.

 

“Even when he was out there, he was constantly in touch, giving directives and following developments.

 

“Today, we had the opportunity to come and brief him again, and it lasted hours. It was a very detailed briefing, and it was exhaustive,” said Ribadu.

 

He said the security chiefs listened to Tinubu and took instructions from him.

 

“The fact is that Mr President is insisting that we work harder to restore security in the country.

 

“We gave him information on what has been happening and assured him of our commitment. We had carried out his instructions.

 

“We went to places with incidences of insecurity, such as Plateau, Benue, and Borno States.

 

“We went to those particular three states. We gave him feedback because he had directed us earlier to go and meet with the political authorities there,” he stated.

 

The NSA said the President highlighted the need to involve the local councils and state governments more in tackling cases of insecurity.

 

“The President directed that we work more with governors. He was very worried and concerned at the meeting. He said, ‘Enough is enough!” said Ribadu.

 

He said the attackers usually targeted innocent citizens by planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and targeting ungoverned areas. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

 

 

Easter: Tinubu promises better, more just, prosperous Nigeria for all
General News

Easter: Tinubu promises better, more just, prosperous Nigeria for all

208 total views today

 

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu on Friday felicitated Christians in Nigeria and worldwide as they observe Easter, the celebration of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection – the cornerstone of the Christian faith.

 

In a message signed by the President, he said he remained steadfast in his commitment to delivering the promise of a renewed hope, a better, more just, and prosperous Nigeria for all.

 

He said the Holy Week, which spanned Palm Sunday through Holy Thursday and Good Friday, and culminated in Easter Sunday, was a call to reflect deeply on the enduring values of sacrifice, redemption, love and hope.

 

“As president of our blessed nation, I draw inspiration from this timeless message of hope and renewal.

 

“The recent tragic incidents and the loss of lives in some parts of our country deeply saddened me. I understand the pain and fear these incidents have caused.

 

“Let me assure you that my administration’s resolve to restore peace and security remains unshakable,” wrote the President.

 

He said forces of evil would never prevail over the country, and that he had given clear directives to the Armed Forces and all relevant security agencies to end insecurity decisively and without delay.

 

“With the unwavering courage and commitment of our gallant men and women in uniform, we are turning the tide and making steady progress in reclaiming peace and stability.

 

“We are also grateful to all Nigerians for your patience and resilience as our economy begins to show encouraging signs of recovery.

 

“We understand the economic challenges many of you are facing, and we are working tirelessly to restore investor confidence, stabilise key sectors, and build an inclusive economy that serves the interests of all Nigerians,” continued Tinubu.

 

The president joined the global Christian community in thanking God for Pope Francis’s recovery, and prayed that his renewed strength continued to inspire his leadership and service to humanity.

 

“I earnestly pray that Easter’s spirit fills every heart and home with renewed faith in the immense possibilities ahead of us as a nation.

 

“Just as Christ triumphed over death, so too shall our country triumph over every challenge we face. The present moment may be cloudy, but it will usher in a glorious day,” he said

 

Tinubu urged all Nigerians to remain hopeful, united and resolute in pursuing national progress.

 

“The task before us is enormous, but together, with faith and determination, there is no obstacle we cannot overcome. Our unity and resilience are our greatest strengths.

 

“May the risen Christ bless our homes with peace and our nation with continued unity and prosperity,” concluded Tinubu. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

 

 

Group donates N1.4m items to Osun special needs school
General News

Group donates N1.4m items to Osun special needs school

190 total views today

 

 

By Mercy Omoike

A non-profit organisation, YTOP Youth Empowerment Foundation, has donated mattresses and beddings worth N1.4 million to schoolchildren living with disabilities in Osun state.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that YTOP Global made the donation at the St. Phillips Special Needs Children School, Iloro, Osun State, on Friday.

 

YTOP Global is a youth-led, purpose-driven organisation founded to inspire and nurture a generation of young, talented, optimistic individuals who are full of potential.

The founder of the group, Mr Oluwadamilare Ekundayo, said the donation was in commemoration of the group’s eight anniversary.

“We proudly celebrate eight impactful years of relentless commitment to youth development, leadership, and community development.

“The vision is from a deep desire to see young people rise beyond limitations to create a global community of great minds who see beyond challenges and collaborate to create effective change.

“Our vision is fully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. YTOP Global was created not just as an organisation but as a movement—a safe space and springboard for emerging change-makers,” Ekundayo said.

The founder noted that YTOP Global had reached out to over 70,000 young people across Nigeria and beyond through its diverse programmes, initiatives, trainings, and collaborations.

 

“Since 2023, through YTOP Global, we have committed to supporting, including, and celebrating PWAs in all we do—inviting them to our programmes, providing scholarships and donating to their schools.

“So far, we have reached schools of special needs in Ile-Ife, Osogbo, Lagos, and Uyo, offering relief items, scholarships, skill training, and dignity to the students.

“However, after visiting yet another special needs school and witnessing their poor living conditions, I knew we had to do more.

“Today, we have provided this school with 100 complete bedding sets, 30 beds, and essential food items—not just to improve their comfort but to show them they are seen, valued, and loved.

“For us, this is not just about charity—it’s about restoring dignity, creating belonging, and giving every child the chance to thrive, regardless of ability,” he said.

In appreciation of the group, Mrs Olunike Egunjobi, Headmistress, St. Phillips Special Needs Children School, commended the group for the kind gesture.

 

“When I was transferred to this school not long ago, I was heartbroken by the terrible condition I met. The students had no proper beds to sleep on, and that deeply saddened me.

“We are really grateful to YTOP Global for their generous donation of 30 mattresses and 100 bedsheets.

“This kind gesture has brought much-needed comfort to our children, and I believe it marks the beginning of many more blessings to come.

“These children have bright futures and with the right support, they can reach greater heights.

“I take this opportunity to seek for more assistance and support for these precious children,” Egunjobi said.

Also, a class teacher at the school, Mrs Bosede Odediran, lauded the group on its impacts on the children living with disabilities.

“As a class teacher, my heart breaks each day seeing my pupils struggle in conditions no child should have to endure.

“I am deeply grateful to YTOP Global for stepping in where help is so desperately needed.

“I also use this moment to plead with kind-hearted individuals and organisations: these children’s lives can truly be transformed.

“They deserve better life and with your help, we can give them a chance to live the life every child deserves,” Odediran said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Fair: Ecobank reaffirms support for SME growth at ‘Oja Oge’ 
Economy/Business

Fair: Ecobank reaffirms support for SME growth at ‘Oja Oge’ 

204 total views today

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

Ecobank Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of Small and Medium-scaled Enterprises across various sectors of the economy.

 

 

 

 

Ms Omoboye Odu, Head of SME, Partnerships and Collaboration, Ecobank, made this known on Friday during the second edition of the “Oja Oge” marketplace.

 

 

 

 

The three-day event focuses on supporting SMEs in the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle sectors by providing a platform for business exposure.

 

 

 

 

Odu highlighted the bank’s dedication to SME growth, noting their vital role in driving Nigeria’s economic development.

 

 

 

 

She stated that SMEs contribute over 50 per cent to Nigeria’s GDP and account for about 90 per cent of employment opportunities.

 

 

 

 

“As a financial institution deeply invested in Nigeria’s progress and financial inclusion, we recognise that empowering SMEs is crucial to achieving these goals.

 

 

 

 

“When we say we are the SME solution, we mean it, and Oja Oge is a testament to that commitment,” she noted.

 

 

 

 

Odu said ‘Oja Oge’ allows creative entrepreneurs to reach wider markets, with expected attendance ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 visitors.

 

 

 

 

She added that the bank supports SMEs through webinars and helps them access international markets via platforms like the “Ecobank Trade Hall.”

 

 

 

 

According to her, the fair, which runs until April 20, reflects the bank’s goal of empowering SMEs and enhancing economic progress.

 

 

 

 

Odu highlighted the evolution of Ecobank’s pan-African vision, tracing its roots back to a discussion among African founders who aimed to create a financial institution that truly understood the African context.

 

She drew parallels to the opportunities seen by international investors in Nigeria’s emerging market, emphasising the need for local enterprises to capitalise on the vast potential within the continent and beyond.

 

 

 

 

“Our goal is to be the partner bank that takes the local Asoke seller, the Ankara designer, and propels their businesses from Nigeria to Rwanda, Egypt, Europe and North America,” Odu explained.

 

 

 

 

The event showcases both new and established brands and provides free exhibition spaces for participating vendors. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Rep urges emergency on drug abuse
Community

Rep urges emergency on drug abuse

162 total views today

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Oluwaseun Nubi

Mrs Kafilat Ogbara, Member of the House of Representatives for Kosofe 1, Lagos, has called for declaration of a state of emergency on drug abuse.

 

 

 

She specifically called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to lead such declaration.

 

 

 

Ogbara made the call during the “Refill Your Gas for Free” initiative to mark her birthday on Friday in Lagos.

 

 

 

According to her, the rise in drug abuse is destroying lives and increasing crime across Nigeria.

 

 

 

“I am a drug abuse campaigner and advocate. There is urgent need for an emergency response in this sector,” she said.

 

 

 

She stressed that NDLEA, NAFDAC and relevant agencies must urgently act to address drug abuse and narcotics use nationwide.

 

 

 

“We must take drastic steps to combat this crisis,” Ogbara said during a drug abuse awareness walk in her constituency.

 

 

 

The lawmaker emphasised the need for proper rehabilitation and reintegration for those affected by drug addiction.

 

 

 

“We have a hotline to support addicts. We want to rehabilitate them and help improve their lives,” she explained.

 

 

 

She noted that many children are now victims of addiction, and that action is needed before more lives are destroyed.

 

 

 

“Our campaign must be intensified. We must work together to solve this problem and support affected families,” she added.

 

 

 

She said the awareness walk was part of efforts to tackle drug abuse.

 

 

 

“Curbing drug abuse will reduce crime significantly. This initiative is the right step forward,” she stated.

 

 

 

Ogbara expressed hope that the sensitisation effort would educate more people on the dangers of drug abuse.

 

 

 

“This is my personal project, managed by me and my team. I’ve also introduced it to the Women Affairs Committee,” she said.

 

 

 

She added that campaigns had been carried out across zones, targeting stakeholders and communities to curb drug abuse.

 

 

 

Ogbara also explained that the free gas refill was aimed at helping residents deal with the rising cost of gas.

 

 

 

She said celebrating her birthday with constituents made the day more meaningful and impactful.

 

 

 

“I’m committed to serving and improving the lives of my constituents. These initiatives meet our community’s needs and promote well-being.

 

 

 

“I will keep working hard to represent Kosofe effectively. I don’t believe in lavish birthday parties. This kind of outreach gives me true joy,” she said.

 

 

 

She also revealed that more projects for the constituency would be unveiled later this year.

 

 

 

The lawmaker said she was passionate about giving back to her community in any way she could.

 

 

 

“I don’t hold any executive position, so I have no official budget for this. But with every opportunity, I find ways to support my people. It’s not budgeted, but I’ll always do my best,” she said.

 

 

 

She said she had lobbied for more projects to benefit the constituency in 2025.

 

 

 

“My constituents should rest assured—they have a smart legislator. I’m not relenting. I’ll keep lobbying and pushing for more projects in Kosofe,” she added.

 

 

 

Mrs Tola Abubakar, Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Lagos, praised Ogbara’s effort to distribute gas and food items.

 

 

 

She said the initiative brought relief to many families and was well received by the community.

 

 

 

“We’re proud of her. The women are grateful. Relieving our burdens helps the whole family,” she said.

 

 

 

A beneficiary, Mrs Funke Adeyemi, expressed her appreciation to Ogbara for the timely support.

 

 

 

“The gas refill helped us save money. The food items brought relief,” she said.

 

 

 

Mr Sulaimon Akinola, a fashion designer, who also benefitted, urged other politicians to emulate Ogbara’s gesture.

 

 

 

He noted the gas refill scheme would greatly help many residents facing economic hardship. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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