Nigeria News (Standard)
NESREA Uncovers Illegal Donkey Abattoirs in Adamawa State
Environmental agency says operations violate national wildlife laws, warns of prosecution for culprits in North-East state
Environmental agency says operations violate national wildlife laws, warns of prosecution for culprits in North-East state
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has uncovered illegal donkey abattoirs operating in Adamawa State, North-East Nigeria. The discovery was made on Friday, June 26, during an official inspection exercise carried out by the agency in the state.
According to NESREA officials, the unauthorised slaughter facilities were found conducting activities that contravene Nigeria’s wildlife protection regulations. The agency did not disclose the exact locations or number of abattoirs discovered but described the operations as a serious violation of national laws prohibiting the killing and trade of donkeys for commercial purposes.
The development comes amid rising concern over the depletion of Nigeria’s donkey population due to illegal slaughter and export activities, particularly in northern states. Donkey parts are highly sought after in international markets, leading to increased pressure on local populations and threats to biodiversity.
NESREA has warned all individuals and groups involved in illegal donkey processing in Adamawa State to desist immediately or face prosecution. The agency emphasised its commitment to enforcing environmental and wildlife laws across the country, stating that violators will be brought to justice.
The agency urged members of the public to report any suspicious activity related to donkey slaughter or trade in their communities. NESREA said it will continue surveillance operations and collaborate with security agencies to clamp down on illicit abattoirs in Adamawa and other parts of Nigeria.
Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/890906-nesrea-uncovers-donkey-abattoirs-in-adamawa.html
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Says Nigeria Needs ₦500bn to Expand Digital Health Infrastructure in Five Years
Health ministry projects major investment to improve access, as sector faces gaps in telemedicine and electronic records
Health ministry projects major investment to improve access, as sector faces gaps in telemedicine and electronic records
The Federal Ministry of Health has disclosed that Nigeria will require about ₦500 billion over the next five years to scale up its digital health infrastructure nationwide. The announcement was made by a senior official on Friday, 26 June, highlighting the government’s plan to strengthen healthcare delivery through technology.
According to the ministry, the estimated funding will be channelled towards developing systems such as telemedicine platforms, electronic medical records, and data management tools across all states. The official explained that current digital health capacity remains limited, with most public hospitals still relying on manual record-keeping and face-to-face consultations, particularly in rural areas.
This proposed investment comes as Nigeria’s health sector grapples with challenges including underfunded facilities and low penetration of modern technology. Experts have long argued that stronger digital infrastructure could reduce inefficiencies, improve patient outcomes, and support national responses to disease outbreaks. However, budget constraints and inconsistent implementation have slowed progress in recent years.
A top official at the ministry emphasised that prioritising digital health is now seen as crucial for achieving Universal Health Coverage targets. “We need substantial resources to upgrade our systems and ensure every Nigerian can benefit from quality care regardless of location,” he said. He added that the ministry would seek partnerships with private sector players and international agencies to raise necessary funds.
The health ministry is expected to present a detailed roadmap outlining key projects and funding requirements before the end of the year. Stakeholders say successful rollout could help bridge inequality in healthcare access and bring Nigeria closer to global best practices.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Gombe Land Agency Boss Alleges Threat to Life, Seeks Urgent Security Intervention
Chairman raises alarm over personal safety, calls on security agencies in North-East state for swift action
Chairman raises alarm over personal safety, calls on security agencies in North-East state for swift action
The head of Gombe State’s land management agency has raised an alarm over alleged threats to his life, urging security agencies to act promptly to ensure his safety. The incident was made public on Friday, 26 June 2026, by the agency boss whose identity was not disclosed in official communications at the time of filing this report.
According to information released by the agency, the chairman reported receiving threats connected to his official duties in the management of land matters across Gombe State. Details regarding the nature or source of these threats were not specified. However, the chairman maintained that his life was at risk due to unresolved land disputes and appealed for protection from relevant authorities in the state.
Land management issues have been a source of tension in several states across Nigeria’s North-East region, with Gombe not exempted from disputes involving government agencies and private stakeholders. The latest development is seen as a reflection of ongoing challenges surrounding land allocation and enforcement of regulations, which often put officials at odds with aggrieved parties.
Security agencies in Gombe State are yet to issue an official statement regarding the alleged threat as at Friday evening. Civil society organisations have also called on government to guarantee the safety of public servants carrying out their lawful duties. Meanwhile, some community leaders expressed concern that such threats could undermine confidence in land administration processes.
The agency chairman has appealed for urgent intervention from law enforcement authorities while urging residents to channel grievances through legal and administrative means. The situation is expected to prompt further review of security protocols for officials involved in sensitive assignments within Gombe and neighbouring states.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Developer Metro & Castle Launches 300-Unit Estate to Boost Community Development
Firm targets Nigerians in diaspora with affordable luxury homes, adds retail hub and sports centre in Ibeju-Lekki
Firm targets Nigerians in diaspora with affordable luxury homes, adds retail hub and sports centre in Ibeju-Lekki
Metro & Castle, a property development firm based in Lagos, has launched a new housing estate in the Ibeju-Lekki area with a target of delivering 300 two-to-four-bedroom terrace apartments and three retail outlets over five years. The unveiling, which took place recently, aims to address the needs of middle-class Nigerians—particularly those in the diaspora—seeking secure and well-furnished homes upon their return.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Metro & Castle, Abdul Adekunle, said the project was conceived after observing challenges faced by Nigerians abroad who often encounter fraudulent developers or lack access to ready-made homes. “We listened closely to the needs of the people and found out that many actually need smaller units – two-to-four-bedroom terraces,” Adekunle explained. He added that the company’s first phase includes Metropolis Square, a retail hub designed to provide supermarkets and other essential services within the estate.
According to Adekunle, community development goes beyond providing residential buildings. “If you’re doing community development, supermarkets, sport centres and other basic facilities have to be in place,” he said. The estate is planned with modern infrastructure and amenities aimed at fostering a conducive environment for residents.
The initiative comes at a time when Nigeria’s housing deficit remains a critical issue for both residents and returning diaspora. Many potential investors have expressed concerns over transparency and quality in the real estate sector. Metro & Castle’s offering is positioned as an effort to bridge this gap while giving middle-income families access to affordable luxury living.
Industry stakeholders say such developments could encourage more diaspora Nigerians to invest in real estate at home. The company plans to expand its projects across Lagos once its initial targets are met.
