Nigeria News (Standard)
Katsina Government Denies Sponsoring Bandits’ Pilgrimage Amid Outcry
State officials refute allegations, say no funds were allocated for criminal elements to attend religious events
State officials refute allegations, say no funds were allocated for criminal elements to attend religious events
Katsina State Government has firmly denied claims that it sponsored a group of bandits to participate in a religious pilgrimage, dismissing the allegations as baseless and unfounded. The denial was issued on Thursday in Katsina following widespread reports and public concern over purported state involvement in funding criminal elements’ travel.
The controversy started earlier this week after rumours circulated alleging that the state administration had approved funds for certain individuals linked with banditry to embark on a pilgrimage. These claims quickly gained traction on social media, sparking outrage among residents who demanded clarification from government authorities.
Katsina, situated in Nigeria’s North-West region, has faced persistent security challenges in recent years, with armed groups carrying out attacks and kidnappings across several local government areas. As such, the reported sponsorship of bandits drew significant criticism, given ongoing efforts by both state and federal security agencies to restore order in the region.
In an official statement released on Thursday, state officials maintained that there was no truth to the reports. The government emphasised that at no point were public funds allocated for any such purpose. “We want to categorically state that Katsina Government did not sponsor any individuals associated with banditry for pilgrimage or any other activity,” a spokesperson said. The statement further urged members of the public to disregard the rumours and avoid spreading misinformation.
No opposition or civil society group had issued an immediate response as at press time. However, some residents have called for increased transparency around government spending and further reassurance regarding the selection process for official delegations on religious trips.
The government said it remains committed to supporting security agencies in tackling insecurity across Katsina State and reiterated its stance against negotiating or collaborating with criminal groups. Officials also warned that anyone found peddling false information could face prosecution under extant laws governing public communication.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Police, Chinese Consulate Strengthen Maritime Security for Foreign Businesses
Commissioner Agbaminoja, Chinese envoy Yan Yuqing meet in Lagos to boost safety at Nigerian ports amid rising investment
Commissioner Agbaminoja, Chinese envoy Yan Yuqing meet in Lagos to boost safety at Nigerian ports amid rising investment
The Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police Western Command, Oluwatoyin Agbaminoja, met with the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, on Tuesday to reinforce security collaboration for foreign businesses operating within Nigeria’s maritime sector. The meeting took place at the Chinese Consulate in Lagos as both parties discussed strategies to address persistent security concerns around the ports and maritime corridors.
According to police sources, Agbaminoja’s courtesy visit focused on deepening engagement between law enforcement and the Chinese business community, which has a growing presence in Nigeria’s shipping and logistics industry. The discussion covered port security challenges, safety of vessels, and measures to ensure protection of critical maritime infrastructure that hosts substantial foreign investment.
The initiative comes at a time when maritime insecurity remains a concern for both local and international stakeholders. Nigeria’s ports in Lagos serve as vital entry points for goods and industrial equipment from China and other countries. In recent years, incidents such as theft, piracy attempts, and unauthorised access have prompted calls for greater police presence and technology-driven surveillance at port facilities.
Commissioner Agbaminoja said the Nigeria Police Force was committed to working closely with diplomatic partners to provide an enabling environment for businesses. “We are open to continuous dialogue with all foreign missions to enhance safety across our maritime corridors,” he stated during the meeting. The Consul General, Yan Yuqing, expressed support for joint efforts aimed at safeguarding Chinese nationals and assets. She emphasised that mutual cooperation would contribute to economic stability and encourage further investment.
Both parties agreed to sustain regular communication channels and explore new approaches including information sharing on emerging threats. As at press time, further meetings are planned involving relevant agencies such as the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to review progress on implementation of agreed security measures.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigeria Approves Emergency Funds as Ebola Death Toll Rises in DRC
Federal government releases special intervention to strengthen border health surveillance amid regional outbreak concerns
Federal government releases special intervention to strengthen border health surveillance amid regional outbreak concerns
The Nigerian government has approved the release of emergency funds to bolster national preparedness after a rise in Ebola virus disease fatalities was reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Thursday. The response comes as neighbouring West and Central African countries heighten vigilance against cross-border transmission.
Authorities said the intervention aims to support Nigeria’s border health surveillance and readiness, as regional health agencies warn that increased movement of people could facilitate the spread of Ebola. The funds are expected to be channelled towards critical health infrastructure, rapid response teams, and public awareness campaigns at major entry points, especially in states with high traffic from Central Africa.
Ebola outbreaks in the DRC have historically posed a threat to Nigeria due to extensive trade and migration links within the region. The latest deaths underscore renewed concerns about public health capacity to contain infectious diseases, especially with Nigeria’s experience during the 2014 outbreak that resulted in multiple cases in Lagos and Rivers State before being contained.
A senior official from Nigeria’s Ministry of Health said measures are being implemented at international airports, seaports, and land borders to screen travellers for symptoms. “Government has activated all necessary protocols to ensure early detection and swift isolation if any suspected case arises,” the official stated. While no cases have been reported within Nigeria as at Thursday, health authorities have urged citizens to report any unusual illness or fever.
Regional collaboration remains a priority as health ministries across West Africa coordinate joint surveillance efforts. Public health experts emphasise the need for sustained investment in epidemic preparedness, given ongoing risks from cross-border outbreaks. Authorities say they will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos: Lafarge Transitions to HBM Nigeria Plc, Unveils New Corporate Identity
Group MD Lolu Alade-Akinyemi assures staff and customers of seamless operations as rebranding takes effect nationwide
Group MD Lolu Alade-Akinyemi assures staff and customers of seamless operations as rebranding takes effect nationwide
Lafarge Africa Plc on Tuesday officially changed its corporate name to HBM Nigeria Plc, unveiling a new identity at a ceremony in Lagos that signals the company’s continued evolution within Nigeria’s building solutions sector. The transition, led by Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, follows changes in the company’s shareholding structure and is designed to reflect its growing integration with the global Huaxin Building Materials Group.
The event brought together key industry stakeholders, including Chairman Gbenga Oyebode and Minister of Works Dave Umahi, who praised the company—now HBM Nigeria Plc—for its longstanding contributions to infrastructure development across the country. Representatives of state governments from Cross River, Lagos, and Ogun joined traditional leaders and business executives at the official unveiling.
According to Alade-Akinyemi, the transition marks a significant milestone for one of Nigeria’s largest cement producers. “HBM Nigeria Plc represents an exciting new chapter in our journey as a leading building solutions company. While our corporate identity is evolving, our commitment to Nigeria remains unwavering. We remain focused on delivering quality cement, concrete, aggregates, and innovative building solutions that support infrastructure development, housing growth, and industrialisation,” he said at the event.
Chairman Oyebode expressed confidence in the rebranding process, thanking shareholders and staff for their ongoing support. He stated that HBM Nigeria Plc would continue to create sustainable value for shareholders while upholding its legacy of excellence and responsible business practices. Minister Umahi commended the company’s role in supporting federal infrastructure initiatives, noting its “impeccable” product standards and integrity.
The rollout of the new corporate identity will be implemented in phases across all HBM Nigeria Plc locations—including Ewekoro and Sagamu in Ogun State; Ashaka in Gombe State; Mfamosing in Cross River State; as well as ready-mix operations in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. The company confirmed that no disruptions are expected for employees or customers during this period. With an installed cement production capacity of 10.5 million tonnes per annum and extensive operations nationwide, HBM Nigeria Plc says it remains committed to driving economic growth and supporting Nigeria’s urbanisation agenda.
Lagos Police, Chinese Consulate Strengthen Maritime Security for Foreign Businesses
Nigeria Approves Emergency Funds as Ebola Death Toll Rises in DRC
Lagos: Lafarge Transitions to HBM Nigeria Plc, Unveils New Corporate Identity
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