NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FG inaugurates 65km C’River section of Lagos/Calabar Coastal road
Metro

FG inaugurates 65km C’River section of Lagos/Calabar Coastal road

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By Ehigimetor Igbaugba

The Federal Government on Monday inaugurated the construction of the 65 Kilo Metre Section 3A and 3B of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road at Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River.

The Minister of Works, Chief Dave Umahi, inaugurated the three-lane dual carriageway in company of the Cross River Governor, Bassey Otu, who represented President Bola Tinubu.

Umahi explained that the sections were components of the 750km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road.

He said that like other sections of the road, the Cross River axis would be constructed using a continuous reinforced concrete pavement.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructural development, describing him as a national hero.

“Only somebody like Asiwaju can come to a deep forest like this and then turn it to another city.

“I thank you for your support for the people of this country because your commitment and pedigree, character, and content is beyond Cross River. You are a national hero.

“We inherited an economy that was in shock. It was in oxygen. But the oxygen has been removed. The worst is over, and we are at the path of prosperity. This project is one of it,” he said.

He appealed to communities within the corridor to cooperate with the contractor to complete the project on time.

“So, I want to appeal that we give the contractor lots of cooperation. They move like lightning. They have no time to waste. If you cooperate with them, you will see magic,” he added.

Tinubu, in his remarks, described the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project as economic enabler, job creation booster, intra- and interregional integration link, and facilitator of cultural exchange.

According to him, as a responsive government, an enabling environment will be continually created for the nano, small, medium enterprises to thrive.

“Relevant government agencies are poised to grant soft loans, grants, professional advice, and other incentives to business owners to enhance their operations.

“Not too long from now, Nigeria is going to be fully independent. If you are independent without food sufficiency, and you cannot actually determine your fate properly, then it means you are going to lean on other economic powers to help you navigate the rough terrain.

“But the structure that we are putting in place today is something that is going to leave a massive legacy in terms of making sure that the life of every Nigerian is better.”

Similarly, the Federal Controller of Works in Cross River, Olayinka Onafuye, said that his duty is to ensure that the project meets standards and specifications, and gave assurance that he would ensure that. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Deborah Coker

 

JP Morgan’s Nigerian branch, endorsement of Tinubu’s reforms – TSF
Metro

JP Morgan’s Nigerian branch, endorsement of Tinubu’s reforms – TSF

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By Salif Atojoko

The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has welcomed plans by JP Morgan, an American banking group, to upgrade its Nigeria representative office into a fully operational business branch.

Malam Danjuma Muhammad, Chairman of TSF, in a statement on Monday, described it as a global endorsement of the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu.

“According to a recent report by Africa Intelligence, the move is in line with the strategic vision of JP Morgan’s Chief Executive Officer, Jamie Dimon, to deepen the bank’s footprint in Africa, particularly in thriving economies like Nigeria.

“The development is a strong vote of confidence on the Nigerian economy and the robust reform agenda of the Tinubu administration, especially in the areas of monetary policy, ease of doing business, and financial market liberalisation.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that J.P. Morgan plans to open a fully operational business branch in Lagos, by converting its existing representative office into a fully-fledged business branch.

It has been present in Lagos since the 1980s, indicating a long-term commitment to the Nigerian market. 

The group said JP Morgan’s decision to apply for a merchant banking licence from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s financial sector.

It said this positioned the country to benefit from global capital flows, attract more institutional investments, and facilitate improved access to foreign exchange loans and sophisticated asset management services for Nigerian corporate citizens.

“As one of the world’s most influential financial institutions, JP Morgan’s expansion into full business operations in Nigeria sends a powerful signal to other global investors that Nigeria is open for business.

“The upgrade will not only strengthen the financial services ecosystem, but will create job opportunities, increase the CBN’s non-oil revenue through licensing and regulatory fees, and drive down the cost of foreign currency-denominated funding for local businesses.

“We at TSF believe that this milestone is the outcome of President Tinubu’s bold leadership and deliberate policies to stabilise the economy, attract foreign direct investment, and reposition Nigeria as the financial hub of Africa,” the group stated.

It also expressed confidence that the development would catalyse similar decisions by other global financial and investment institutions, leading to a virtuous cycle of economic growth and renewed investor confidence in Nigeria.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Tinubu pledges to boost road infrastructure nationwide 
Metro

Tinubu pledges to boost road infrastructure nationwide 

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By Angela Atabo

President Bola Tinubu says his vision is to complete and expand all key road infrastructure projects across Nigeria to improve nationwide connectivity.

Tinubu, represented by Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State stated this on Sunday during the inauguration of section two of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Expressway project.

He said the road is a vital link between the South and North, and the government is committed to easing travel across the country.

“My vision is to overhaul Nigeria’s roadways by completing and expanding critical infrastructure projects nationwide,” Tinubu stated.

He acknowledged that some projects began under past administrations but praised his government for refining partnerships, addressing funding issues, and setting new completion timelines.

“In almost two years, we’ve awarded several new road projects, many of which have already been completed to boost trade, productivity, and regional development,” Tinubu said.

He added that no part of Nigeria is being neglected in the ongoing infrastructure upgrades sweeping across the nation under his leadership.

Tinubu said Kaduna State and Northern Nigeria have especially benefited from major infrastructure improvements since his administration began.

He highlighted the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano dual carriageway as a landmark project and one of Nigeria’s most critical road networks.

The road connects the Federal Capital Territory with about 12 states across the north-central, northwest, and northeast, aiding both economic and social development.

Also, Tinubu approved an 11-kilometre extension to connect the road to Aminu Kano International Airport.

He also added 10 kilometres at the start of section one, between Kogi State and Abuja, for greater coverage.

Tinubu directed that solar-powered lights be installed throughout the road for safety and illumination.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, praised Tinubu’s dedication to improving Nigeria’s infrastructure, especially in the road sector.

Umahi revealed that the 700-kilometre road would be completed using concrete-reinforced pavement within 14 months.

He said the project spans 350 kilometres each way from Abuja, passing through Niger State to Kaduna, Zaria, and ending in Kano.

The minister confirmed that Julius Berger had completed 480 kilometres of the Kano section, with 280 kilometres remaining to be done.

Umahi stated that construction of sections one and three, totalling 118 kilometres, had been awarded for N252 billion with 30 per cent upfront payment to Infiouest.

He added that section two, 82 kilometres each way (164 kilometres total), had been flagged off at a cost of N525 billion.

The entire road project, close to a trillion naira in total, is being executed by Infiouest, which Umahi endorsed as reliable.

Umahi assured Nigerians of progress and said the ministry would return in 30 days to assess the ongoing work.

He disclosed plans for zonal engagements across the six geopolitical zones to report on road and bridge achievements under the Tinubu administration.

Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, reaffirmed Tinubu’s commitment to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

Goronyo called Tinubu a leader for all regions, with dedication to every corner of the country.

“We deeply appreciate your efforts; your impact is felt nationwide,” Goronyo said.

He commended Tinubu for projects in Illela, Sokoto, Lagos, and Badagry, highlighting them as part of major legacy superhighways.

“This is a performing President, bringing renewed hope and positive change to Nigerian lives,” Goronyo added.

He encouraged communities to support the contractors, governors, and the president in building a prosperous and transformed Nigeria. (NAN) 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG reiterates commitment to affordable housing for civil servants
Metro

FG reiterates commitment to affordable housing for civil servants

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By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to provide affordable homes for federal civil servants in the country.

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Government Staff Housing Loan Board (FGSHLB) Hajiya Salamatu Ahmed gave the assurance while inspecting some government housing projects for civil servants in Gwagwalada, Kuje and Karshi in the FCT.

“Houses are now very costly. We are looking around to see the assets that are very affordable for the federal civil servants.

“Thank God, these houses are within the reach of the civil servants.

“Our housing project will meet the needs of public servants. What public or civil servants want is a good quality and comfortable shelter. but you know how it is, it’s not easy living in Abuja.

“I am sad because most of our civil servants’ commute from Nasarawa State and Suleje in Niger and other far areas.

“You know that transportation in Abuja is very expensive. Rent is also kyroketing at an alarming rate; the salary can no longer take care of all these challenges,” she said.

The FGSHLB boss said she was satisfied with the progress of work at the project site in Gwagwalada, Kuje and Karshi, adding that the buildings will be ready for commissioning in June.

She further explained that while a two-bedroom bungalow goes for 17 million naira, three bedrooms are going for 22 million naira and duplexes of three bedrooms are for 30 million naira.

She also appealed for more funding for the board to enable it to do more for the public servants in the country

“We are looking at how we can do so many places, but because of funding challenges, we cannot finish them all at the same time.

“We are taking them bit by bit, by the time we finish with some, then we can go for others,” Ahmed said.

Meanwhile, the developer at the Kuje site, Mr Rotimi Fasan said the infrastructure in the estate had been completed.

“We have a road network, water system; we also have lots of green areas for children to play in.

“We have also completed the construction of a central sewage system and others.

“By the grace of God, in the next few months, this place will be ready for commissioning with all the listed facilities,” Fasan said.

NAN reports that the FISH Programme, which was initiated by OHCSF in 2015, is designed to provide affordable housing for Federal Civil Servants through an integrated strategy involving group land allocation, inter-ministerial collaborations and provision of infrastructure and services. (NAN) 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Gov. Soludo assents six bills into law
Metro

Gov. Soludo assents six bills into law

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By Lucy Osuizigbo-Okechukwu

Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra on Thursday signed six bills into law, as part of ongoing efforts to advance the state’s development projects.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the bills included the Anambra State Development and Investment Corporation Law, 2025 and the Anambra State Electricity Law, 2025.

They also include the Anambra State Homeland Security (Amendment) Law 2025 and the Anambra State Indigenous Traditional Medicine Practices Law, 2025.

Others are the Anambra State Herbal Practice Law 2025 and the Anambra State Mission Schools of Nursing and Midwifery (Amendment No. 2) Law, 2025.

Speaking while signing the bills into law, Gov. Soludo said the laws would strengthen governance in the state and served as an indicator of progress in the state.

He commended the state House of Assembly for working closely with the executive to make laws that would positively affect the citizens. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdul Hassan/Maureen Atuonwu

Gov. Oborevwori signs electricity bill, six others into law
Metro

Gov. Oborevwori signs electricity bill, six others into law

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By Ifeanyi Olannye
Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has assented to the strategic Delta State Electricity Power Sector Bill, 2024 and six others into law.
The governor, who performed the function at Government House, Asaba on Thursday, described the electricity bill as a game changer in the state’s rapid industrialisation drive.
Other bills assented to are: Delta State Physical and Regional Planning Bill, 2024; Delta State Film and Video Censor’s Board Bill, 2024; Registration and Regulation of Private Veterinary Clinics (Amendment) Law, 2024.
Also, the Child Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2024; Delta State Pet Control and Responsible Ownership Bill, 2024, and the Delta State College of Health Technology, Ovrode Bill, 2024 were assented to.
Oborevwori lauded the leadership of the State House of Assembly for passing the important bills carefully crafted to address pressing issues and challenges to improve the quality of life of the people.
He said, “we have just witnessed the signing into law, the seven bills geared towards enhancing Delta State through our MORE Agenda.
“The laws that l have just assented to are very key, especially the Delta State Electricity Power Sector Law 2024. This particular law gives me immense joy in assenting to it.
“We have provided the legal framework to unlock a plethora of investment opportunities in the power generation, transmission and distribution investment.
“The state is now open for prospective investors in this sector to take advantage of it. I believe that this bill that l have assented to today will improve our power sector which is very key because, you can’t do any investment without power.
“Power is very key and I can tell you today that we have the population and now the legal framework for investment to thrive. The state is now open for investments.”
He said that the Child Rights Amendment Law 2024, had provided more safeguards for children, adding that from now, no child should be employed or used for domestic help aside their homes or family environment.
“It also establishes an Adoption Service Department in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development to address the challenges of prospective adopting parents. Our children are the future and must be protected.
“These bills that have been assented to will protect our vulnerable populations, improve quality of life, promote sustainable development and environmental protection, attract investment and increase our IGR.
“We must recognise that our work is far from over. We must now ensure the effective and efficient implementation of these laws. I, therefore, urge all stakeholders to work together to guarantee successful outcome,” he said.
Earlier, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, while presenting the bills, had congratulated the governor on the massive construction projects across the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Benson Iziama
Minister inaugurates service charter to deliver quality, affordable housing
Metro

Minister inaugurates service charter to deliver quality, affordable housing

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By Angela Atabo

The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has inaugurated a Service Charter in its commitment to deliver quality and affordable housing to Nigerians.

The charter was inaugurated by Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa on Wednesday in Abuja.

Dangiwa said that it was a bold statement of the ministry’s collective commitment to excellence, transparency, responsiveness and accountability in the discharge of duties to Nigerians.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the document outlines the ministry’s vision, mission, and deliverables in providing quality and affordable housing, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.

“As we all know, the civil service is the engine that drives the machinery of government headed by our Permanent Secretary.

“No matter how bold or visionary a government’s policies and programmes may be, their success or failure ultimately rests on the shoulders of the civil servants who are tasked with the implementation.

“When the civil service is competent, efficient and forward-thinking it becomes an invaluable asset, guiding political leaders and ensuring the continuity and success of government’s policies.

“A weak, unmotivated and inefficient civil service becomes a drag on progress, frustrating implementation and slowing down reforms and undermining the best intentions of the government,” he said.

Dangiwa said that the service charter outlined the standards of service that every department, unit and staff of the ministry should uphold.

According to him, it also gives citizens a clear picture of what they should expect from the ministry and how to hold it accountable to those expectations.

He urged members of staff to recommit themselves to giving their best in service and upholding the values of discipline, diligence and patriotism that define the Nigerian civil service.

The minister encouraged them to become enablers of change and not obstacles to progress.

“Let us embrace this charter, not just as a document, but as a culture.

“Let it guide our daily operations, shape our interactions with citizens and shareholders and inspire us to build a ministry that we can all be proud of,” he said

The minister said that the ministry would dedicate a special day during the SERVICOM week to recognise outstanding staff, customers, contractors, and consultants of the ministry.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Shuiab Belgore, said that the ministry was working to change the narrative of the housing sector.

Belgore said that to make this happen, the ministry innovated some reforms to drive internal productivity, and created a reward system for best staff of the month and the overall best for the year.

“That way, the members of staff will give their best in effective service delivery to the nation.

“I guarantee to Nigerians that the service we will provide will be exemplary,”he said

Also speaking, Mrs Nnenna Akajemeli, National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer, SERVICOM, presiding office, said that the inauguration of the service charter marked a significant step toward service improvement in the ministry.

Akajemeli said that its implementation would determine how well the ministry is positioned to really improve on the services provided to stakeholders.

She said that SERVICOM was an initiative of the Federal Government conceived to promote effective and efficient service delivery in the civil service.

“The concept was initiated by the government to ensure customer satisfaction and manage the performance and expectation gap between government and citizens.

“A service charter, therefore, is a document that describes the service experience that can be expected from the ministry to coordinate all matters concerning lands, housing and urban development,” she said.

Akajemeli,further described the service charter as an operational and performance enhancement tool that enshrined the trust between service providers and service takers containing realistic and measurable standards in specific key services of the ministry. (NAN)

Edited by Modupe Adeloye/Kadiri Abdulrahman

Plateau, NRC partner to revive Jos rail
Metro

Plateau, NRC partner to revive Jos rail

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By Chiazo Ogbolu

The Plateau State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to restore and operate the Jos–Kuru rail corridor.

This milestone aims to boost economic activity, reduce transport costs, and enhance mobility in Plateau and neighbouring areas.

Gov. Caleb Mutfwang said the project was not only about trains but about restoring hope and prosperity to Plateau residents.

Represented by the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Jatau Davou, Mutfwang thanked the Minister of Transportation, Said Alkali, and NRC boss, Dr Kayode Opeifa, for their unwavering support.

The Jos–Kuru line, part of the historic Kafanchan–Kuru route, will link the Western and Eastern rail corridors.

It is expected to connect communities, ease cargo movement for farmers and traders, and reduce travel costs across the state.

Initially, the service will run on a narrow gauge, but plans for a modern standard gauge network are underway nationally.

Opeifa highlighted the value of federal-state collaboration, praising Plateau’s efforts in reviving abandoned railway infrastructure.

“This partnership shows how governments can rise above politics to deliver real benefits to Nigerians.

“We are not just returning trains; we are restoring dignity, economic power, and national unity,” Opeifa said.

He said NRC would deploy a dedicated business manager in Plateau to oversee operations and ensure service delivery.

He stated the initiative would create jobs, support local businesses, and open advertising and entertainment opportunities through train services.

“We will continue to rail across Nigeria—from Jos to Borno, Aba to Port Harcourt, and beyond,” Opeifa said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will withstand flood for 50 years – FG
Metro

Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will withstand flood for 50 years – FG

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Highway

By Chigozie-Ngwakwe

The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, has given the assurance that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway when completed would withstand flood for about 50 years.

Umahi gave the assurance at a stakeholder engagement on Section 2 of the highway project on Sunday in Lagos.

“We will make sure that our pavement level is going to counter any climate change,” he said.

According to him, the pavement level would be at the first floor of many buildings.

“To retain the road, we are going to be building retaining board. It has already started.

“We also have the cable duct so you don’t have to cut the road.

“MTN, African Plus or any other network doesn’t have to cut the road. The cables are there, I saw them.”

He reiterated that there would be closed circuit television cameras on the road so that the response time for any issue would be less than five minutes.

The minister also said that the highway would have an evacuation corridor.

” We are going to be earning carbon credit by the reason of the use of concrete pavement which will have no emission.”

He said that trees would be planted all through on the road to make it exciting.

“We have the Dangote Refinery. You need about 60 metres clearance for the trucks to go in and out.

“We are now building a flyover that has a span of 60 metres, and then the next span is 41.6 metres counterbalance.

“We are flying over Dangote Refinery, and the seven axial road is coming. It is going to be a point to behold. It is going to be another tourist site.

” Let me announce that along the corridor, there are lands that the state government has given us the right so we can build what I call relief centres where you can stop to have snacks, buy petrol.”

He added that supermarkets and medical facilities would be part of the centres.

Umahi thanked stakeholders for their support.

“Let me thank you all for coming to this public engagement.

“There are some people who are here not because they have money to claim but because of the love they have for this development.”

He also praised the contractor handling the project, Hitech Construction Company, for excellence and timeliness. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Minister inaugurates Utako Farmers’ Market in Abuja
Metro

Minister inaugurates Utako Farmers’ Market in Abuja

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By Philip Yatai

The Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art solar-powered farmers’ market, in Utako, Abuja.

The market project, executed by Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL), was developed on 3000 square meters of land and consists of 50 lockup shops, 40 informal stalls, and seven warehouses.

Mahmoud said, at the inauguration in Abuja on Friday, that the market would serve as a hub of economic empowerment, a centre of agricultural excellence and a vital link between producers and consumers.

“This market will serve as a platform where farmers can sell directly to buyers, eliminating middlemen, reducing post-harvest losses, and boosting rural incomes.

“As we inaugurate this market today, we reaffirm the commitment of the FCT Administration under the leadership of Mr Nyesom Wike, to drive development that is people-centred, impactful, and sustainable,” she added.

She commended the visionary leadership and dedication of AICL and emphasised that market stood as a demonstration of what could be achieved through public-private collaboration, strategic investment, and community-focused development.

The minister, however, called on the farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs to take full ownership of the facility and use it as a catalyst for economic growth.

She advocated for a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economy that could support local farmers, empower small-scale agribusinesses, and ensure that quality produce was readily accessible to every resident of the territory.

Mahmoud commended President Bola Tinubu, for his immense support towards the development of the nation’s capital city.

Earlier, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, AICL, Amb. Maureen Tamuno revealed that the Utako farmer’s market was the first green solar-powered market of its kind in the FCT.

Tamuno reaffirmed the commitment of the Wike-led FCT Administration to making Abuja a world-class city and to fulfil the SDG 11.

She explained that the SDGs 11 focused on ensuring that cities grow in a way that supported economic growth, environmental protection, improved quality of life for all residents and ensuring a better future for residents of Abuja.

She said that with the development of the market, the AICL had demonstrated its resolve to actualise environmental sustainability and be part of the solution to the problem, associated with climate change.

“The Utako Farmers’ Market, being the first green market in Nigeria, stands as an example of innovation, sustainability, and progress

“The reliable and clean power supply in the market would enable traders to operate for extended hours and preserve perishable goods, thereby boosting their income.”

She added that the market would support the food security policy thrust of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu-led administration. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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