News Agency of Nigeria
Electric Vehicles will ease Nigeria’s transportation challenges–Experts
Science & Tech

Electric Vehicles will ease Nigeria’s transportation challenges–Experts

345 total views today

Tolu Aiyegbusi

Automobile technology experts say Electric Vehicles (EVs) technology, if supported by stakeholders, will ease Nigeria’s transportation challenges and drive sustainable development.

They said this on Saturday in Abuja during interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Mr Gbenga Bada, an automotive technician at Kugbo, urged government to create more awareness about the benefits of EVs as well as invest in the infrastructure that would stimulate its growth.

“Many Nigerians are still unaware of the benefits and availability of EVs.

“There is also skills and maintenance gap; there is the need for more trained technicians for EV maintenance,’’ he told NAN.

He acknowledged government’s efforts through agencies like the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) in promoting EV adoption.

“I think they have launched some EV charging stations and unveiled locally assembled electric buses.

“The government aims to achieve 30 per growth in electric mobility, aligning with the National Automotive Industrial Development Plan.

“China is also investing in EV factories in Nigeria, tapping into the country’s lithium reserves,’’ he said.

According to him, there is growing EV Presence and estimates suggest there are now between 15,000 to 20,000 EVs on Nigerian roads as of early 2025 which is a significant increase from previous years.

He also said the Nigerian market offers considerable potential for EVs growth with its large and growing population, increasing urbanisation.

He said through private sector initiatives global brands were already making their presence felt in Abuja and Lagos.

Mr Austin Emmanuel, a renewable energy expert, said by investing in EVs, the Federal Government would be sending a signal about its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

He said successfully integrating it into the nation’s transport sector would bolster the economy through job creation and ease of movement of humans and goods.

Emmanuel said Nigeria possessed abundant renewable energy resources such as solar and wind, which could sustainably support the functionality of EVs.

“Nigeria has also pledged to achieve 100 per cent zero-emission sales for new cars and vans by 2040.

“This aligns with global climate goals and the need for cleaner transportation solutions that should create a strong demand for EVs.

“The SAGLEV Electromobility Nigeria Limited has launched an EV assembly plant in Lagos, with a target of 10,000 vehicles annually. They are also assembling BRT buses and passenger cars,’’ he said.

He said Nigeria’s potential for EVs impact is remarkably high because its vibrant tech ecosystem provides an opportunity for EVs research and development.

Asabe Daniel, a graduate of Transport Planning and Management, told NAN that EVs would be cost-effective in the long run.

“Initial purchase costs may be high, but in the long run EVs will be generally cheaper to run and maintain due to differences in fuel costs.

She also called for investment in renewable energy sources to power the EVs battery charging infrastructure in Nigeria.

“There is need for a concerted effort involving public and private sectors investment if Nigeria will maximise the potential in EVs.

“To pave the way for a sustainable and successful transition to electric mobility, strong collaboration between the government, private sector, and international development partners is crucial,’’ she said.

NAN recalls that among other initiatives to support EVs adaption in Nigeria, the Federal Government recently approved contracts worth nearly N152 billion to introduce EVs in the north-east.

Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said the contracts, approved by the Federal Executive Council, aim to promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in the region.

According to him, the contracts include N2.9 billion awarded to Bluecrest Integrated Concept Limited for ten 17-seater electric buses, while Mutual Commitment Company Limited will supply 4,000 e-tricycles for N49.6 billion.

He said Shanghai Integrated Infrastructure Development and Sinoma Investment International Limited will provide an additional 6,000 e-tricycles for N37.2 billion and N16.3 billion, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Kano pilgrims praise Govt. over accommodation arrangement in Madina
Religious

Kano pilgrims praise Govt. over accommodation arrangement in Madina

460 total views today
By Aminu Garko
Some Kano State pilgrims in Madina on Saturday praised Gov. Abba Yusuf for arranging decent accommodation for them near the Prophet’s Mosque in Madina.
Alhaji Mohammad Shamsuddeen, a pilgrim from Gwale Local Government Area (LGA), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Madina that the governor’s efforts made a significant difference.
He said this was particularly evident in healthcare, with stationary and mobile clinics providing medical care for the pilgrims.
He said that the pilgrims would observe all the Hajj rituals without any form of stress.
“We’re pleased with the state government’s arrangement for decent accommodation very close to the Prophet’s Mosque,” he said.
Alhaji Ado Isa from Gwale LGA lauded the state government for providing decent meals for the pilgrims, saying: “I’m pleased the state government is identifying with us, enabling us to observe the Hajj rituals without stress.”
He said that the state government had provided decent accommodation with excellent facilities and well-trained scholars to guide the pilgrims.
Alhaji Bashir Disu praised Yusuf, saying he had made significant difference by ensuring a stress-free and peaceful Hajj experience.
He prayed for the governor’s success and the continued prosperity for his administration.
The Kano pilgrims’ satisfaction with the accommodation arrangements highlights the importance of logistics support for pilgrims during the Hajj pilgrimage.
“The provision of proper accommodation and other facilities can significantly enhance the spiritual experience of pilgrims.
“This allows them to focus on their religious duties without undue stress or discomfort,” said Hajiya Hauwa Ibrahim.
The state’s provision of decent accommodation for the pilgrims demonstrates its commitment to supporting its citizens during this significant religious event.
NAN spotted pilgrims from Kano State praying at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madina.
The Prophet’s Mosque is considered the second holiest place in Islam after the Kaaba in Mecca with millions of Muslims visiting it every year to pray and pay their respects.
Praying in that mosque is believed to be highly rewarding, with some Islamic scholars stating that one prayer here is equivalent to 1,000 prayers elsewhere, except for the Sacred Mosque in Mecca.
NAN reports that the 540 pilgrims, who arrived in six flights, were in perfect health conditions and were also spotted visiting other historical sites in Madina. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Uche Anunne
NBSA rolls out ”Safe Blood Project” to boost transfusion safety
Health

NBSA rolls out ”Safe Blood Project” to boost transfusion safety

224 total views today

By Justina Auta

The National Blood Service Agency (NBSA) has partnered with Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) and Universitätsmedizin Greifswald (UMG), Germany on “Safe Blood Project” to enhance the safety and quality of blood transfusion services across Nigeria.

Abdullahi Haruna, Head of Media and Publicity, NBSA, made this known on Saturday in Abuja.

“This strategic project is designed to build national capacity through targeted training, hands-on skills development, systematic auditing, and sustainability-focused interventions.

“The first major activity under the initiative is the rollout of a Basic Blood Transfusion Course and a Clinical Haemotherapy Course, aimed at improving transfusion practices nationwide,” he said.

Haruna explained that 10 Nigerian healthcare institutions will be selected for participation through a competitive application process.

He said successful institutions must be publicly funded, registered with the NBSA, have a functional transfusion committee, and demonstrate a clear institutional strategy for improving blood safety, including evidence of management support and prior training efforts.

He said the training will strengthen knowledge and practice of safe blood transfusion, promote quality assurance, haemovigilance, adherence to national guidelines, and build a nationwide network of trained transfusion professionals and mentors.

“Target participants include medical doctors, laboratory scientists and technicians, donor recruitment officers, phlebotomists, counsellors, and blood bank officers.

“Each institution can nominate up to three fully funded participants representing various arms of their transfusion services, with room for additional self-funded attendees,” he said.

He added that the courses are fully sponsored, and selected participants will receive travel and accommodation stipends, while certificates will be jointly issued by NBSA, AKTH and UMG. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

FG, Kwara Govt. partner on improving obstetrics care
Health

FG, Kwara Govt. partner on improving obstetrics care

224 total views today

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

The Federal Government, under the Sector Wide Approach (SWAP), in collaboration with Kwara Government, has stepped up efforts to improve healthcare facilities across the 16 LGAs of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that SWAP is part of the Federal Government’s initiative at reducing maternal and neo-natal mortality across Nigeria.

The initiative is also in partnership with the Johns Hopkins Programme for International Education in Gynaecology and Obstetrics (Jhpiego). In her address, Dr Amina El-Imam, the Kwara Commissioner for Health, stated that assessment was carried out across the secondary healthcare facilities in the 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.

She explained that the evidence from the assessment will assist in decision making that would improve maternal and newborn health outcomes across Kwara.

El-Imam, represented by Dr Taoheed Abdullahi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, spoke at a One-Day Comprehensive, Emergency, Obstetrics and Newborn Care (CEmONC) Assessment Report Dissemination Agenda.

According to her, the findings will highlight both the strength and critical gaps in the state’s CEmONC services.

She commended the state government for upscaling healthcare delivery as demonstrated by several infrastructural upgrade across the state.

The commissioner listed the upgrade of primary and secondary health facilities to include the Civil Service Hospital and Adewole Cottage Hospital among others.

She observed that government had also engaged in mass recruitment of healthcare professionals to address the human resource gap in the state.

Also speaking, the representative of the National Coordinator of SWAP, Mr Salami Olalekan, explained that the programme is a collaboration between the Federal Government, state governors and development partners.

He explained that every LGA must have, at least one functional secondary healthcare facility to help bridge the gap in the provision of emergency health services.

Olalekan said the refurbishment of these healthcare facilities is an integral component of the initiatives implemented to crash maternal mortality in Nigeria.

He explained that healthcare facilities that meet the accreditation criteria would be able to offer free Caesarean Section to pregnant women in need and be better positioned to manage emergencies referred within the LGAs.

In his remark, Dr Ola Ahmed, the SWAP Desk Officer in Kwara, noted that, at least, one healthcare facility in each local government is identified to provide care for mothers and neo-nates.

“This is to ensure that during delivery, the mother and the baby are well taken care of. We don’t want maternal and child complications that will result in death,” he said.

Ahmed explained further that, earlier in 2024, assessments were carried out on the healthcare facilities located in each LGA.

He revealed that the state government began renovations based on the challenges that were recorded so as to improve the facilities.

According to him, the state government is required to take ownership of the initiative, while the Federal Government expresses readiness to support the state.

Dr Kofo Ibrahim, the CEmONC Focal Person in Kwara, said that the assessment of the secondary healthcare facilities in each LGA entailed availability of infrastructure, drugs, human resources and health and emergency referrals. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yetunde Fatungase

Ondo governorship election tribunal fixes June 4 for judgment
Judiciary

Ondo governorship election tribunal fixes June 4 for judgment

355 total views today

By Alaba Olusola Oke

The Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has fixed June 4, to deliver judgment in the petitions filed against the Nov. 16 governorship election in the state.

The three-man panel headed by Justice Benson Ogbu, announced the date on Saturday in Akure, after all parties adopted their final written addresses.

Other members of the tribunal are Justice Imelda Etape and Justice Sikka Duarabo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the tribunal, which began sitting on Jan. 31, 2025, received five petitions challenging the outcome of the election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, winner of the election.

The five petitioners are seeking for the nullification of the election on grounds of non-compliance with the provisions of Electoral Act.

The petitioners are: Action Alliance and its candidate, Mr Abdullahi Olowokere; and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidate, Chief Bamidele Akingboye.

Others are: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Mr Agboola Ajayi; the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and its candidate, Kolawole Ogunfeyimi; and African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its candidate, Mr Adeyemi Nejo.

The respondents are: APC, Aiyedatiwa and his running mate, Mr Olayide Adelami; and INEC.

Mr Ishaka Dikko and Bankole Akomolafe, the PDP’s counsel, argued that the election was marred by substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act and asked the tribunal to void Aiyedatiwa’s certificate of return.

On the other hand, Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, Adelami and the INEC enjoined the tribunal to dismiss the petitions.

The respondents, represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, Mr Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, and Mr Charles Edosomwan, urged the tribunal to dismiss the petitions for lack of merit. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

Tinubu’s reforms push Customs revenue to ₦1.3trn in Q1, 2025 – C-G Adeniyi
Economy/Business

Tinubu’s reforms push Customs revenue to ₦1.3trn in Q1, 2025 – C-G Adeniyi

330 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) recorded a revenue of ₦1.3 trillion in the first quarter of 2025, more than double the ₦600 billion collected during the same period in 2023.

Mr Bashir Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of Customs, disclosed this in an upcoming State House documentary to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary.

He elatedly attributed the revenue growth to transformative reforms under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Adeniyi said the revenue surge emanated from improved technological deployment and enhanced port operations, tightened enforcement on revenue leakages.

The customs boss also cited a renewed culture of accountability across Customs commands, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the president’s spokesman, said in a statement.

“We collected ₦1.3 trillion in Q1 2025 alone. This was not due to higher import volumes.

“Imports had dropped due to foreign exchange constraints. What have changed are efficiency, transparency, and enforcement,” the Comptroller-General said.

He stated that the Service was preparing to launch the E-Customs Modernisation Project, adding that the $3.2 billion dollars initiative would digitise cargo processing, surveillance, and payment systems across Nigeria’s ports and borders.

“We’re laying the foundation to move from a manual, paper-based system to a fully digital service.

“The E-Customs Project is central to our future. Once fully deployed, we project it will add 250 billion dollars in cumulative revenue over 20 years,” the customs boss said.

According to Adeniyi, the newly launched Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme is now onboarding pre-vetted importers, allowing compliant businesses faster processing and reducing port congestion.

“It’s about trust and efficiency. If you’re compliant, you get green-lane treatment. This is how modern customs systems work globally,” he said.

The customs C-G confirmed that the service had intensified its anti-smuggling operations and closed long-standing revenue leakages.

He said over ₦64 billion was recovered from previously under-assessed or undervalued imports in the last nine months, and major smuggling rings at the Seme, Idiroko, Katsina and Sokoto borders had been dismantled.

Adeniyi said the new joint border patrol task forces established in coordination with the Nigerian Army, DSS and Police had also yielded positive results.

“We’re no longer just chasing smugglers in the bush. We’re using data, surveillance drones, and port intelligence to act in real-time.

“Once systemic leakages, are now being plugged,” Adeniyi said.

To ease trade and reduce business costs, he said NCS was fast-tracking the roll-out of the National Single Window, a digital portal that would integrate all government agencies involved in cargo clearance.

“Right now, you deal with up to 15 agencies manually. With the Single Window, you’ll do it all online, in one place. This will slash clearance time and costs,” the C-G explained.

He added that clearance timelines at Apapa and Tin Can Ports had already dropped from 21 days to 7 to 10 days for compliant importers.

The comptroller-general said the agency had introduced fast-track lanes for agro-exports.

He added that they were working with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) to streamline outbound cargo processes in line with the government’s push for non-oil exports.

“We’re promoting exports aggressively. Last year, Nigeria exported over ₦340 billion worth of solid minerals and agro commodities through formal channels, up by 38 per cent. We’re targeting even more in 2025,” he said.

Adeniyi stated that the customs service was also undergoing internal transformation, with over 1,800 officers trained in advanced data analytics, risk profiling and artificial intelligence.

“Customs is no longer just about physical inspection. We are becoming an intelligence-led organisation, and our officers are being retrained to match global standards.

“The president gave us a clear directive: block leakages, facilitate trade, and raise revenue without burdening Nigerians.

“That is what we are doing. And the results are beginning to speak for themselves,” Adeniyi said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Bashir Rabe Mani

14 Lagos students get NIS football scholarships
Sports

14 Lagos students get NIS football scholarships

208 total views today

By Babatunde Ogunrinde

The Chairman of Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Hajj Gafar, says 14 students from Lagos tertiary institutions have been awarded training scholarships at the Nigeria Institute of Sports.

Gafar disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday in Lagos.

He said the beneficiaries would join 36 other selected coaches, increasing the number of football coaches sponsored for professional training.

The 14 students, comprising five females and nine males, were selected from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

The female students are Ekun Balikis, Adeleke Ameenah, and Lawal Abibat, all from Lagos State University.

Also selected are Afenisumen Eunice from the University of Lagos, and Ogundele Olajumoke from the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology.

The male students include Bello Yusuf, Usman Azeez, and Olayioye Samuel from Lagos State University.

Others are Oyewole Peter and Olukotun Damilola from the University of Lagos, and Tokunbo Lateef from the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology.

Additional beneficiaries are Onah Onyekachi, Adeyemi Tomisin, and Omolale David, from the same institutions.

“These 14 students will receive football education at the NIS, Nigeria’s premier sports institution,” said Gafar.

He noted that 36 Lion Investment Ltd. is fully funding the training programme.

Gafar added that the initiative supports Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s youth empowerment vision using football for social reengineering. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Collins Yakubu-Hammer/Kamal Tayo Oropo

NNPC Ltd plans PH refinery maintenance shutdown
Oil & Gas

NNPC Ltd plans PH refinery maintenance shutdown

387 total views today

By Emmanuella Anokam

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) says the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) is undergoing a maintenance shutdown.

Mr Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd., said the scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment commences on May 24, 2025.

Soneye said the company was working assiduously with relevant stakeholders to ensure efficient maintenance.

“We are working closely with all relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure the maintenance and assessment activities are carried out efficiently and transparently.

“NNPC Ltd. remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering sustainable energy security for Nigeria.

“Further updates will be provided regularly through our official channels, including our website, media platforms and public statements,” Soneye said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Emmanuel Afonne

FG begins repairs on Lagos-Ibadan bridges
Metro

FG begins repairs on Lagos-Ibadan bridges

195 total views today

By Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, says the Federal Government will soon begin palliative repairs on failing expansion joints along key bridges.

She listed Kara, Arepo, and Magboro bridges on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway as critical points where urgent interventions are planned.

Kesha spoke to journalists on Saturday while responding to a recent crash involving an 18-seater commercial bus at Arepo bus stop on Friday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that several passengers sustained serious injuries in the incident.

According to Kesha, the accident resulted from a structural failure at one of the expansion joints.

She expressed concern over the worsening condition of expansion joints, especially around the three bridges.

“Some are now showing signs of failure, and the Federal Government is addressing the issue,” she said.

She stated that palliative works will be the first step in resolving the problem.

Kesha revealed that a contractor currently operating in the area has been instructed to start repairs this weekend.

These are temporary measures, pending official approval for full-scale rehabilitation of the affected bridges.

However, Kesha pointed out that vandalism plays a significant role in the early deterioration of some infrastructure.

“Some of these failures result from acts of vandalism,” she stated.

She appealed to Nigerians to change their attitude towards public infrastructure.

“Damaging public property does not benefit any responsible citizen,” Kesha stressed.

Apologising for the inconvenience and past accidents, she urged citizens to treat public assets as collective responsibility.

“Let us regard these facilities as our own property,” she said.

She encouraged the public to report any acts of vandalism to law enforcement authorities.

“Offenders must be apprehended so that others can learn from it,” she added.

Kesha reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safer roads and called for public cooperation in protecting national assets. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Kamal Tayo Oropo

ITF trained 29,000 youths in various skills in 2024, says D-G.
General News

ITF trained 29,000 youths in various skills in 2024, says D-G.

185 total views today

By Blessing Odega

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF), through its various skills intervention programmes, has trained and empowered more than 29,000 Nigerians in various skills in 2024.

Its Director-General (D-G), Dr Afiz Ogun, made the disclosure on Saturday in Jos, during the fund’s 2024 Performance Review Meeting and Merit Award Ceremony.

Ogun said that the Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) programme was a transformative initiative of the Federal Government, committed to upskilling, licensing and empowering 5 million Nigerians yearly.

The D-G stated that the aim of the initiative was to train artisans with requisite skills of global standards.

He emphasised that SUPA programme showed the government’s commitment to promoting economic development and improving the standard of living of the citizens.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that awards were given to the best area office in training activities, the best area office in revenue generation and the best performing area office under categories A, B and C, respectively.

NAN further reports that the Abeokuta Area Office in Ogun State emerged as the overall best in training activities and the overall best-performing area office in 2024. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Peter Amine

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email