NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Court sets Oct. 6 to hear Alison-Madueke’s suit challenging asset forfeiture

Court sets Oct. 6 to hear Alison-Madueke’s suit challenging asset forfeiture

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By Wandoo Sombo

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, fixed Oct. 6, to hear a suit by former Petroleum Minister, Diezani Allison-Madueke, challenging forfeiture of her assets to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the forfeiture suit was brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC).

When the matter was called on Monday, Alison-Madueke’s lawyer, Mr Godwin Inyinbor, told the court that the case was for hearing but that they were served with two motions which they had replied.

Counsel to the EFCC, Mr Mofesomo Oyetibo, however, informed the court that he was appearing in the case for the first time.

The presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, also hinted that the matter was coming up before him for the first time.

He, consequently, adjourned the case until Oct. 6, for hearing.

NAN reports that in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/21/2023, which began in 2023, the applicant is praying the court to extend the time to apply for an order to set aside EFCC’s public notice for sale of her assets.

She avers that the order for forfeiture of her assets were made without jurisdiction, arguing that she was denied fair hearing in the proceedings leading to the forfeiture order.

The applicant, therefore, seeks orders, annuling EFCC’s public notice on the sale of her properties.

Besides, she argued that the forfeiture violated her constitutional right to fair hearing as enshrined in section 36 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, adding that she was not served with the charge, proof of evidence or summons.

In response, EFCC, prayed the court to dismiss her application on the grounds that she had been properly brought before the court.

The anti-graft agency averred that the application for final forfeiture of her assets had been properly instituted and conducted following all legal requirements. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sandra Umeh

Akpoti-Uduaghan docked over alleged cybercrime, defamation

Akpoti-Uduaghan docked over alleged cybercrime, defamation

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By Wandoo Sombo

The Federal Government on Monday, arraigned Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan at the Federal High Court, Abuja over alleged cyber bullying and defamation of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and former Governor of Kogi, Yahaya Bello.

The suspended senator was docked on a six-count charge bordering on making inciting statements in public and on television amounting to cyber bullying and defamation.

The lawmaker, who was accompanied by her husband into the court room to answer the charge against her, however, pleaded not guilty to all the six count.

The Federal Government, through the Attorney-General of the Federation, preferred the six-count criminal charge against her.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Akpabio, had in a petition to the Inspector-General of Police, complained about damages done to his reputation by Akpoti-Uduaghan on the accusation that he planned to eliminate her in Kogi.

The allegations in the charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025 are said to contravene Section 24 of the Cybercrimes Act and punishable under the same act.

She was alleged to have transmitted false and injurious information via electronic means calculated to malign, incite, and endanger lives and breach public order.

In the charge, Akpoti-Uduaghan, while addressing a gathering on April 4 in Ihima, in Kogi, was said to have alleged that Akpabio instructed Bello to have her eliminated in Kogi.

Similarly, in a television interview, she allegedly repeated the narrative, suggesting a murderous conspiracy against her life by Akpabio and Bello to take place in Kogi to make it appear as if her people were responsible.

Following her plea of not guilty, the prosecuting counsel, Mr Mohammed Abubakar, prayed the court for a date to start trial and call witnesses.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Prof. Roland Otaru, SAN, moved a bail application for the defendant.

Otaru, in the application, prayed the court to admit the defendant to bail on self-recognition.

He submitted that the suspended senator was not a flight risk and would not interfere with police investigation and witnesses.

Moreover, he said that the offences his client was standing trial for were bailable, adding that the prosecution did not oppose the application.

The trial judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, subsequently admitted the defendant to bail on self-recognition.

He adjourned the matter until Sept. 22 for the trial to begin.

NAN recalls that on the last adjourned date, the court had rejected an application by the government to issue a bench warrant against Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The prosecuting counsel, Mr David Kasue, had asked the court to issue a bench warrant for her arrest following her absence in court.

Her lawyer, however, opposed the application for a bench warrant saying the application was strange and not courteous, since he had only been served with the charge on behalf of his client in court that morning. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

E-visa: FG processes over 14,000 applications in 6 weeks – Tunji-Ojo

E-visa: FG processes over 14,000 applications in 6 weeks – Tunji-Ojo

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By Ibironke Ariyo

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo says the recent inauguration of electronic visa (e-visa) has achieved significant success, processing over 14,000 applications within its first six weeks.

Tunji-Ojo said this at a stakeholder sensitisation workshop on major Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) innovations on Monday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the electronic visa regime inaugurated by the Federal Government took off on May 1, 2025.

He also revealed that the electronic Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (e-CERPAC) and the electronic Temporary Work Permit (TWP) were set to go live within next week.

He, however, highlighted the efficiency of the new system, saying, “I can tell you within the first six weeks of the e-visa, we were able to process over 14,000 visa applications.

“This happened within six weeks. So, by any standard in the world, is a pass mark.

“It is a huge one and of course, those little hitches, I tell you, within the next one to two weeks, will be history. We will correct them and we are already working on it,’’ he said.

The Interior Minister said that the e-visa system was introduced not only for migration management but also as a catalyst for economic growth.

“To me, when somebody needs a visa to Nigeria, and all he is looking for is who knows the minister, who knows the CG Immigration, who knows the Permanent Secretary, that is not how to grow a country.

“We must make visa issue easy while not compromising national security. There must be that strategy.

“So for the e-visa, I want to assure you that it is here, and by the grace of God, is here to stay, ” he maintained.

Tunji-Ojo, however, noted that the e-border solution had significantly bolstered Nigeria’s border security framework.

According to him, we are not yet where we want to be, but we are not where we were before.

“There has been progress, and the simple truth is, we will continue to invest in our e-border governance.

“We will put more boots on the ground to make sure that every inch of the Nigerian border space is well protected,” he said.

Speaking on the upcoming e-CERPAC and TWP, the minister declared an end to the misuse of the TWP system.

He said that the era when people will come on TWP almost for free, keep renewing over and over, just to evade the law, is gone.

“So, for us, TWP is automated just like CERPAC is already automated,” he emphasised.

The minister added that discontinuing manual archiving in passport application processes had resulted in an annual saving of approximately N1 billion as the relevant contract had been terminated.

Earlier, the Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, Mrs Kemi Nandap, elaborated on the recent digital innovations by the Service.

Nandap said that the new visa regime introduced several innovative services, including the e-Visa Application Channel, e-CERPAC, Landing and Exit Cards, and Temporary Work Permit.

“The already installed e-Gates at our major airports and commissioned command and Control Centre is positioned to house and harness these technologies.

“These digital solutions leverage technology to streamline processes, enhance security, and improve the overall experience for travelers and stakeholders,” she said.

Nandap said that the e-Visa system allowed for seamless online applications, eliminating the need for physical visits to immigration offices.

She added that the e-CERPAC integrated residence permits into a digital document, simplifying processes for foreign nationals residing in Nigeria.

“Our temporary work permit has also been digitised, reducing processing times and increasing efficiency,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah and Yakubu Uba

AU: NDLEA key to Africa’s new drug control plan

AU: NDLEA key to Africa’s new drug control plan

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By Ibironke Ariyo

The African Union (AU) Commission has emphasised that the ongoing development of a new continental action plan on drug control and crime prevention would be incomplete without contributions from Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Dr Olubusayo Akinola, Head of Social Welfare, Drug Control, and Crime Prevention at the AU Commission, made this remark on Monday in Abuja during an assessment visit to the NDLEA National Headquarters.

Akinola led a three-member delegation of Dr Abiola Olaleye, Senior Drug Epidemiology and Research Officer, and Prof. Johan Strijdom, Senior Drug Control Consultant.

He explained that the visit was aimed at evaluating the implementation of the current African Union Plan of Action on Drug Control and Crime Prevention (2019–2025).

It also sought to gather insights for the development of a new plan covering 2026 to 2030.

 “We’re here to understand the status of implementation of the continental action plan on drug control and crime prevention.

“The new plan won’t be complete without NDLEA’s input. You are on the forefront of law enforcement on the entire continent,” Akinola said.

The AU delegation commended NDLEA for its consistent provision of critical, policy-relevant data, which had helped shape the commission’s work over the years.

The team emphasised the need to identify institutional and operational gaps and explore potential areas for technical assistance.

“These include capacity building, forensic science, canine detection units, and other strategic enablers of effective drug control.”

Welcoming the delegation, NDLEA Chairman, Retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, underscored the importance of the mission and said he chose to receive the team personally due to the strategic nature of their engagement.

“We are particularly pleased that the African Union is approaching implementation as more than a theoretical exercise.

“Field consultations like this ensure a pragmatic and responsive framework,” Marwa said.

He also highlighted the urgency of Africa’s drug crisis, pointing out that while global projections estimated a 10–11 per cent increase in drug use prevalence, Africa could face a surge of up to 40 per cent.

“This disparity signals a looming crisis that demands coordinated and accelerated action.

“We deeply appreciate the AU’s leadership and proactive engagement in tackling this challenge,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Victory over terrorists certain – COAS

Victory over terrorists certain – COAS

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has issued a stern warning to terrorists and all enemies of Nigeria, asserting that their failure is certain.

Oluyede reaffirmed the determination of the Nigerian Army to root out terrorism and ensure national security through effective counter-terrorism strategies.

He gave the warning during the Interdenominational Church Service to mark the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025, on Sunday in Abuja.

He reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting its territorial integrity, and upholding the rights of all citizens.

“We shall never depart from our honour which is tied to our faith and we will continue to live true to the Nigerian Army motto, “Victory is from God Alone”.

“To all those who seek to disrupt the sanctity of our freedom, our heritage of liberty and our enduring democracy, be assured that your failure is certain and your boast lacks value.

“The Nigerian Army will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to foster a joint and multi-agency environment to effectively deliver our mandate of securing our beloved nation,” he said.

The COAS said the tradition of NADCEL provided an opportunity to commemorate the army’s establishment and also reflect on the sacrifices, resilience and selfless commitment of its officers and soldiers in the service to the nation.

According to him, it is also a time to remember and honour the brave heroes who fell in the line of duty as well as their dear families that are subjected to bearing the absence, loss and scars of service.

“The time-honoured tradition of commencing the Nigerian Army Day Celebration schedule of events with the Juma’at Prayers and Interdenominational Church Services symbolises our humble acknowledgement of the divine role of the Almighty in all our affairs.

“This stems from the prevalence of faith and hope being the tenets of moral guidance and emotional stability that reinforces ethical behaviour and motivates us all to act honourably during operations,” he added.

Oluyede said the Nigerian Army was commemorating 162 years of dedicated service, pointing out that it shows the deep-rooted patriotism and valour espoused by their forebears.

He said the church service was significant, saying the sanctuary was where they drew strength and have hope for tomorrow.

“So we have come here today to thank God for his mercy and we expect that he will protect us in the future so that we can secure Nigeria better.

“And with that, we expect Nigeria to come out better and greater and I would like to tell all Nigerians that they should have hope.

“The Nigerian Army belongs to all Nigerians and security is for all and we expect them to give us their maximum support so that we can do our jobs better,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa alongside his wife, Mrs Oghogho Musa and other top officers attended the church service.  (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Nollywood: Actors Guild inaugurates national secretariat in FCT

Nollywood: Actors Guild inaugurates national secretariat in FCT

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By Joshua Olomu

The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), an umbrella body for professional screen actors in the Nigerian film industry, known as Nollywood, has unveiled its national office in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that filmmakers and actors drawn across the country, government functionaries, members of the diplomatic community and other stakeholders were present at the inauguration in Abuja.

Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, while unveiling the new office, lauded the current leadership of the AGN for starting and completing the project.

According to the minister, represented by Mrs Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy Department of the ministry, the project is historic and pivotal to the growth of the industry.

“This milestone is a testament to the growth of the AGN and the reflection of the vibrant potential of Nigeria’s creative economy, and today we celebrate the vision, resilience and collective effort of the sector.

“The creative economy is the new oil well of our great nation, as it provides a strategic platform to tell our stories, preserve our heritage and project Nigeria’s soft power across the globe.

“Nollywood as the world’s second largest film industry is a shining example of what Nigerians can achieve when talent meets opportunities,” she said.

According to her, actors as the face of the industry play a vital role in shaping perceptions, inspiring change and driving economic growth.

“This new office symbolises more than just a physical space, it represents a hub for creativity, collaboration and innovation.

“It is a home where actors can strategise, engage and continue to elevate the standards of the profession.

“Abuja, our nation’s capital, is more than just the political heartbeat of Nigeria. It is a city of unity, diversity and untapped potential.

“While Lagos has long been regarded as the entertainment hub of Nigeria, Abuja possesses the unique opportunity to become the complementary and competitive destination for Nigeria’s Arts, Culture and Creative Economy,” she said.

She noted that the opening of the AGN’s national office in the FCT would fast-track efforts to make the territory a creative and entertainment hub.

According to her, the ministry is working towards repositioning Abuja as a global entertainment hub, to boost tourism, create jobs and enhance Nigeria’s soft power diplomacy as part of the ‘Destination 2030’ plan.

Earlier in his speech, Dr Emeka Rollas, the AGN National President, said the project was part of efforts to create a conducive environment for actors across the country to easily access the guild’s services.

He, therefore, urged the FCT leadership to identify with the guild, especially in nurturing teeming youths in the territory who are interested in the film industry.

“As the largest association in the culture sector in Africa, we are determined to take our place of pride at the forefront of the evolution of the sector.

“To achieve this onerous task, it became imperative that we must put in place the necessary infrastructures to help carry out this enormous task effectively.

“Today’s ceremony is yet another milestone that attests to the phenomenal transformation that the present leadership of the guild has continued to unveil.

“The key objective is to create a conducive environment to help create access to our services and enhance our capacity towards provision of more welfare packages for members.

“It is our firm belief that these projects will enhance the image and capacity of the guild to provide all necessary support to members.

“It must be noted that for any organisation to flourish, it requires a vibrant and dynamic leadership taking into cognisance our position as cultural ambassadors and influencers.

“In order to ensure continuous efficient and effective mandate delivery, we will provide cutting-edge services to build a seamless association which will be people centred and technology driven.

“We are focused on motivating members towards self- development, sustainable career growth and job satisfaction,” he said.

In his remarks, Sen. Ned Nwoko, Chairman, Board of Patrons for the AGN, expressed delight at how Nollywood has evolved into a global brand over the years.

According to him, the Nigerian motion picture industry is a goldmine that can turn the economy fortune of the nation, if given the right support.

“They have grown on their own from inception to where they are now, So they need support, and we must develop the sector into the formal economy.

“They need to be supported and regulated just like other professional bodies in Nigeria are regulated and supported by the government compulsorily.

“Look, practically every Nigerian is involved in Nollywood as some people are financiers, others are producers and many are actors, among others,” he said.

Some Nollywood actors who spoke with NAN on the sidelines expressed fulfilment towards the project, describing the new edifice as a unifying point for all actors across the country.

Highpoint of the event was the unveiling of the prototype of the AGN Galleria, a proposed multi-purpose creative hub in the FCT, and the launching of the ‘AGN Super AP’ for membership enrolment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

JOSH/IAA

Elombi next President of Afreximbank

Elombi next President of Afreximbank

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The shareholders of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) have appointed Dr George Elombi as the next President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the continental financial institution.

Elombi, who was appointed on Saturday, becomes the fourth President to lead the Bank since its establishment in 1993.

His appointment was one of the key decisions of the 32nd Afreximbank Group Annual Meetings and Associated Events held in Abuja, Nigeria, from June 25 to 28 with the formal annual general meeting of shareholders on Saturday, 28 June 2025.

He succeeds Prof. Benedict Oramah, who has served as President and Chairman of the Board of Directors since 2015, and will be stepping down in September 2025.

Elombi is a Cameroonian national and has been with Afreximbank since 1996, joining as a Legal Officer.

He rose through the ranks to become Executive Vice-President, Governance, Legal and Corporate Services.

Over his nearly three decades at the bank, he has served as Director and Executive Secretary (2010–2015); Deputy Director, Legal Services/Executive Secretary (2008–2010); Chief Legal Officer (2003–2008); and Senior Legal Officer (2001–2003).

Before joining Afreximbank, he taught law at the University of Hull, United Kingdom.

Elombi played a pivotal role in establishing Afreximbank group’s structure, including the formation of key subsidiaries that have expanded the bank’s capacity to deliver on its mandate.

As Chair of the Emergency Response Committee, he led the bank’s response to the COVID-19 crisis, mobilising over two billion dollars for vaccine acquisition and deployment across African and Caribbean nations.

Under his supervision of the Equity Mobilisation and Investor Relations Department, the bank’s total ordinary equity mobilised amounted to 3.6 billion dollars as at April 2025.

In his acceptance speech, Elombi expressed a deep commitment to the bank’s mission and future, stating:

“I have worked alongside remarkable colleagues and extraordinary leaders to help shape this institution’s vision, its mandate as well as its growth.

“As we look to the future, I see Afreximbank as a force for industrialising Africa and for regaining the dignity of Africans wherever they are.

“I will work to preserve this important asset.”

He accepted the shareholders’ desire, as expressed by his predecessor, to make the institution a 250 billion dollar bank in ten years.

Elombi holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the London School of Economics, University of London, and a Ph.D. in Commercial Arbitration from the same university.

He obtained a ‘Maitrise-en-Droit’ from the University of Yaoundé in 1989.

His appointment followed a rigorous selection process initiated in January 2025, which included a global call for applications published in international media and on the Afreximbank website.

Shortlisted candidates were interviewed by an international human resource executive search firm.

The top candidates were presented to the Board of Directors, which recommended Elombi to the General Meeting of Shareholders for final approval.

Under the Afreximbank Charter, a president is appointed by the general meeting of shareholders upon the recommendation of the Board of Directors for a term of five years, renewable once. (NAN)(www.nannews ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Fencing: Nigeria’s Epee team secures historic win

Fencing: Nigeria’s Epee team secures historic win

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By Vivian Ahanmisi

Nigeria’s women’s epee team celebrated a historic feat at the 23rd African Fencing Championships, winning their first-ever match and finishing in the competition’s top five.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the five-day tournament, held at Charterhouse, Lagos, ended with Egypt emerging as overall champions.

Following a quarterfinal loss to Algeria, the Nigerian team—Somtochukwu Eribenne, Sara Idongesit, and Adebodunirin Thomas — bounced back strongly to finish their campaign on a high.

They overcame Benin Republic 45-40 in the classification match for fifth place, showing teamwork and resilience to the delight of the home crowd.

An excited Thomas called the win a morale booster: “We are thrilled to get our first win and secure a top-five finish in the event.

“We worked hard together as a team, and our coach played a big part in helping us challenge our opponents.

“This experience will definitely boost our confidence heading into the next competition.

Egypt maintained its dominance in the men’s team foil event, defeating Angola convincingly in a one-sided final.

The Egyptian side — 2025 men’s foil champion Abdelrahman Tolba, Karim Medhat, Mohamed Hamza, and Sief Elghayesh — crushed Nigeria 45-9 in the semifinals.

They then beat Angola 45-23 in the final, sealing another gold medal in commanding fashion.

Angola reached the final after a thrilling 45-44 comeback victory over Algeria in the semifinals.

In spite of Algeria’s strong start, Angola fought back spiritedly to earn their first podium finish in the competition.

In the women’s team epee final, Egypt was awarded gold after Algeria refused to continue the match, which had been tied 6-6.

The match ended with a P. Black decision in Egypt’s favour following Algeria’s withdrawal.

Egypt also won the women’s team sabre final, where Alanoud Hegazy, Nada Hafez, Nagwa Nofal, and Renad Eldoksh triumphed over Algeria 45-40.

With that win, Egypt added another gold to their growing tally in the championship.

Egypt topped the overall medal table with 11 gold, 5 silver, and 5 bronze medals.

Kenya came second with one gold, while Tunisia placed third, earning two silver and two bronze medals.

Algeria finished fourth with one silver and six bronze medals to their name.

Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa both secured one silver and one bronze medal each.

Angola earned one silver, while Morocco, Cape Verde, and Senegal each claimed one bronze medal.

NAN reports the five-day tournament, hosted by the Nigeria Fencing Federation at Charterhouse, Lagos, featured over 120 fencers from 18 countries. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Beans price crashes by over 100% amid increased yields

Beans price crashes by over 100% amid increased yields

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By Mercy Omoike

The Cowpea and Beans Farmers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (C&BFPMAN) has highlighted high harvest yields among others as the reasons for the drop in the price of the produce in the country.

The President of C&BFPMAN and some traders disclosed the reasons for the price drop in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos.

NAN reports that as of the second and third quarters of 2024, the price of beans increased astronomically to between N210,000 and N240,000 for 100kg as against N90,000 it was being sold in 2023.

However, from the first quarter of 2025, the produce witnessed a steady decline in its price.

A bag of 100kg currently sells between N80,000 and N120,000 depending on the species.

Speaking on the reasons for the drop in the price of the produce, Mr Kabir Shuaibu, C&BFPMAN President, said the increased harvest from the cultivation is the reason for the drop in price.

“We are glad the price of beans and cowpeas in general has dropped since the harvest from last year. We harvested over 10 times what we usually harvested in the past years.

“The main reason for the drop in price is the increase we got from our cultivation. This implies that with increased supply of the produce, the prices will drop.

“The reason for the hike in the price of beans last year was due to the poor harvest in the previous year.

“You can imagine a farmer who planted in a hectare of land and expecting 10,000 bags of beans but was only able to harvest and could only get a few bags due to flooding.

“The situation of beans hike we witnessed last year was one we had not experienced in the sector for the past 10 years. We hope it does not recur,” Shuaibu said.

He noted that in the most recent harvest of beans and cowpeas, a hectare of land produced triple of its usual harvest of 10,000 bags, hence the crash in the price of the produce.

“Another reason for the surplus in the harvest of beans this year is that farmers did not take chances. While cultivating corn, they also planted beans and cowpeas along the rows, hence the increased harvest and subsequent drop in price of the produce.

“Currently, a bag beans up North costs between N80,000 and N120,000 depending on the species you are buying. As of this time last year, due to the poor harvests, the same bag sold between N210,000 and N240,000.

“We do hope for continued increased harvest in the sector as it benefits both the farmers and the consumers,” he told NAN.

A wholesaler, Mrs Esther Umeileka, the Managing Director of Fresh2Home Ltd., Lagos, attributed the price drop to increased yield and less infestation of the produce as was witnessed in the previous year.

“Last year, there was a case of insect/weevils’ attack which affected the produce.

“So, this year, we have a lot of produce that crashed high prices. Also, we have adjusted to government policies.

“Another reason for the drop in the price of beans is that this year the yield from the harvests is quite high,” Umeileka said.

Another beans trader at Oyingbo Market, known as Mrs Zainab Ahmed, said patronage for the produce has increased since the drop in its price.

“With the hike in the price of the produce last year, it was not easy for our customers. They just  price and walk away.

“But now, everybody seems to be able to afford beans for their families again, as the price has dropped to about N6,000 to N7,000 for a paint bucket as against N13,000 to N14,000 that was sold last year,” Ahmed said.

Also, Mrs Tonia Sanwo, a consumer, expressed her joy at the drop in the price of beans which she described as an essential staple in her home.

“Last year, the price of beans was really on the high side, we were buying a small derica cup for as high as N2,000 to N2,500.

“We are really glad the price has dropped, the same quantity now sells between N800 and N1,000 depending on the species.

“We never thought the price of beans would drop from what we experienced last year,” Sanwo said.

Also speaking, Mrs Favour Braye, a civil servant, confirmed the drop in the price of the produce.

Braye attributed the development to easy access to farms which resulted to increased yields.

“The price of beans has really dropped in comparison to the prices last year.

“The farmers complained that insecurity on their farms resulted in poor yields the previous year.

“However, with ease of access to their farms, the price of beans has dropped and we are all happy about it. More people can now afford beans as it is a common staple in Nigerians homes,” Braye said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

NUJ FCT, Nizamiye Hospital screen 300 journalists

NUJ FCT, Nizamiye Hospital screen 300 journalists

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By Emmanuel Oloniruha

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, in partnership with Nizamiye Hospital, provided free health services to more than 300 journalists in Abuja on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the outreach held at the NUJ FCT Secretariat featured vital tests and consultations across several specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, ophthalmology, dental care, and general medicine.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, represented by the Director of Medical Services, Surgeon Commodore Momoh, commended the NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital for prioritising journalists’ health.

“This is a laudable event. Kudos to the NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital for organising this outreach.

“It will improve the well-being and productivity of journalists and help them stay focused on their important work,” Musa said.

NUJ FCT Chairman, Grace Ike, expressed appreciation to Nizamiye Hospital for bringing a team of specialists, including general surgeons, internists, cardiologists, nephrologists, ophthalmologists, and general practitioners.

Ike said the outreach was part of the NUJ’s broader goal of promoting health awareness and offering free medical support to its members.

“Journalists are always on the field and often don’t find time to check on their health,” she said, adding that the screening would also inform efforts to secure health insurance for members.

“It is our duty to ensure journalists monitor their vitals. This outreach shows our commitment to their well-being, and we intend to sustain it,” Ike said.

She assured members that more of such programmes would be organised.

Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Nizamiye Hospital, Mohammed Abubakar, affirmed the hospital’s support for the initiative and other similar health interventions.

“Our aim is to prevent diseases through early screening. This partnership with NUJ FCT aligns with our humanitarian goals,” he said.

Abubakar revealed that the most common health issues identified during the outreach were high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels.

He added that the hospital would follow up on journalists who needed further care, including eye surgeries.

Deputy Medical Director of Nizamiye Hospital, Dr Nurullo Sadokov, noted that the programme was part of the hospital’s corporate social responsibility.

He stressed the importance of early detection in preventing serious health complications.

“Some journalists have been identified with conditions such as hernia and haemorrhoids.

“We will invite them for treatment and further management at the hospital. While some may only need basic diagnostics, others will require more advanced care,” he explained.

Both the NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital expressed optimism that the partnership would result in improved health and productivity for journalists in Abuja.

NAN further reports that medications were also distributed. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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