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NDLEA, UNODC Lead Lagos Street Walk to Raise Awareness on Drug Abuse Risks

Agency marks World Drug Day with sensitisation campaign as Marwa urges coordinated national action against illicit substances

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Agency marks World Drug Day with sensitisation campaign as Marwa urges coordinated national action against illicit substances

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), held a sensitisation street walk in Lagos on Friday ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, commonly known as World Drug Day, which is observed globally on June 26. The event was led by NDLEA officials and targeted residents of Lagos State, drawing attention to the dangers of drug abuse and the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat illicit substances.

The walk forms part of a week-long series of activities organised by NDLEA to mark World Drug Day. Commander of Narcotics, Mohammed Ahmed, led the procession through major streets in Lagos, reiterating the commitment of the agency to disrupt criminal networks fuelling drug circulation in Nigerian communities. He emphasised that proactive engagement with the public remains crucial in stemming substance abuse, especially among youths.

World Drug Day provides an annual platform for Nigerian stakeholders to evaluate progress and recalibrate strategies against drug trafficking and abuse. The menace remains a pressing concern, particularly in urban centres like Lagos where access and exposure are high. NDLEA officials said this year’s commemoration aims to mobilise collective action among government agencies, civil society groups, and local communities.

NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier-General Mohammed Marwa (rtd), described World Drug Day as a vital occasion for reviewing anti-drug policies and strengthening inter-agency collaboration. “It is during this period that our collective efforts against the illicit drug menace are evaluated, refined, and given a definitive policy direction for the subsequent 12 months,” Marwa said in a statement marking the launch of activities.

The agency indicated that further outreach programmes and educational campaigns will continue across Lagos State throughout the week. NDLEA urged parents, schools, and community leaders to intensify vigilance and support for government initiatives aimed at safeguarding young Nigerians from substance abuse.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/ndlea-sensitises-nigerians-on-dangers-of-drug-abuse/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Lagos Stocks: Fidson, Africa Prudential, Access Holdings Lead Weekly Top Picks

Market analysts highlight improved performance of key companies as investors seek safe bets amid economic uncertainty

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Market analysts highlight improved performance of key companies as investors seek safe bets amid economic uncertainty

Fidson Healthcare, Africa Prudential, and Access Holdings have emerged as the leading stock picks on the Nigerian Exchange for this week, with market analysts pointing to their recent strong performance and resilience in a volatile economic environment. The selection was announced on Monday in Lagos, reflecting renewed investor interest in companies demonstrating stability and growth potential.

The stocks were chosen based on a review of their recent trading activity, profitability, and positive outlook within the pharmaceutical, financial services, and banking sectors. Analysts noted that Fidson Healthcare has continued to benefit from increased demand for essential medicines, while Africa Prudential’s digital transformation initiatives have attracted institutional investors. Access Holdings, one of Nigeria’s largest banking groups, also maintained robust returns despite broader sector headwinds.

This development comes as investors across Nigeria remain cautious due to persistent inflationary pressures and fluctuations in naira value. The Nigerian Exchange has witnessed heightened activity in defensive stocks as market participants look for companies capable of weathering macroeconomic shocks. Experts say the latest picks signal a preference for firms with consistent dividend records and sound management practices.

Although official statements from the selected companies were not immediately available as at press time, financial analysts stress that these picks could help guide both retail and institutional investors navigating current market uncertainties. They advise potential investors to conduct due diligence before making portfolio decisions.

Market watchers will be closely monitoring how these stocks perform through the week, especially in light of upcoming quarterly results and policy announcements from regulatory authorities. The focus remains on sectors that can deliver steady earnings growth despite economic challenges facing Nigeria.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/889703-fidson-africa-prudential-access-holdings-top-stock-pick-this-week.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

U.S.-Based Athletes Arrive Lagos for Commonwealth Games Trials at YABATECH

AFN postpones 100m final as thunderstorms delay flights, over 10 foreign stars now present in Lagos

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AFN postpones 100m final as thunderstorms delay flights, over 10 foreign stars now present in Lagos

Over 10 United States-based athletes arrived in Lagos on Friday for the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) National Trials ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following flight delays caused by a thunderstorm. The event, initially scheduled to begin on Saturday at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), was shifted by one day to accommodate the late arrivals.

The athletes began arriving at YABATECH yesterday afternoon, with more expected as at press time. The delay in their arrival prompted organisers to postpone the highly anticipated men’s 100 metres final, which will now hold today instead of the original schedule. Among the foreign-based stars already present are Favour Ashe, Nyenuchi Okemgbo (400m hurdles), Chukwuebuka Enekwechi (shot put), Oyesade Olatoye (hammer throw and shot put), Dolapo Divine Oladipo (shot put and discus), and Obiageri Amaechi (discus).

The AFN National Trials serve as the major selection event for Nigerian athletes hoping to represent the country at the Commonwealth Games later this year. The influx of U.S.-based competitors is seen as a boost to Nigeria’s medal prospects, with many of these athletes having recorded impressive performances in recent international competitions.

An official from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria confirmed that the schedule was adjusted to ensure fair competition among all participants. “We had to move some events forward so that all qualified athletes can take part,” the official said. No official reaction has been received yet from local-based athletes or their coaches regarding the schedule change.

With more foreign-based competitors expected to arrive before the end of trials, stakeholders believe that this year’s selection process will be highly competitive. The final list of Team Nigeria representatives for the Commonwealth Games is expected to be released after completion of all events at YABATECH.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/u-s-based-athletes-flood-yabatech-for-commonwealth-games-national-trials/

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Abua, Bassey Clinch CBN Senior Tennis Titles at Abuja’s MKO Abiola Stadium

Both players secure their first senior singles crowns as CBN marks 47th championship edition in the FCT

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Both players secure their first senior singles crowns as CBN marks 47th championship edition in the FCT

Canice Abua and Etoro Bassey emerged as champions in the men’s and women’s singles categories respectively at the 47th Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Senior Tennis Championship, which concluded at the Package B of MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Saturday. The tournament saw top local tennis talents battle for national honours over several days in the Federal Capital Territory.

Abua, who entered as the men’s top seed, delivered a commanding performance against defending champion and third seed Michael Akpan Emmanuel. The final ended in straight sets with Abua winning 6-1, 6-2, marking his first-ever triumph at this prestigious event after several previous attempts. In the women’s final, 18-year-old Etoro Bassey overcame a shaky start to defeat Ogunjobi Success 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 and lift her maiden senior singles trophy.

The CBN Senior Tennis Championship remains a crucial fixture on Nigeria’s sports calendar, offering homegrown athletes a platform to showcase their skills and advance their careers. Abua’s victory is seen as a breakthrough for the experienced player who is currently part of Nigeria’s Davis Cup squad for 2026. For Bassey, her win signals the rise of new talent in women’s tennis as she steps up from junior ranks to senior competition.

Speaking after his victory, Abua dedicated his title to God. “I thank God for His mercy and making me proud to be who I am,” he said at the post-match presentation. Bassey also expressed gratitude for her support team and looked forward to more opportunities at the senior level.

With this year’s edition concluded, organisers and tennis stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting young talents and sustaining the annual championship. Attention will now shift to preparations for Nigeria’s Davis Cup campaign and other national competitions where both champions are expected to feature.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/abua-etoro-crowned-cbn-senior-tennis-champions/

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