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Nigeria News (Standard)

Enugu Tanker Crash Claims Three Lives, Destroys ₦900m Property Along Expressway

Federal Fire Service confirms accident caused by brake failure on Dangote truck; several injured, emergency response ongoing

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Federal Fire Service confirms accident caused by brake failure on Dangote truck; several injured, emergency response ongoing

Three persons lost their lives and property valued at about ₦900 million was destroyed after a tanker fire broke out at the Ugwu Onyeama axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Enugu State on Monday. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of June 22, was confirmed by Deputy Superintendent of Fire Maxwell Ucheagwu of the Federal Fire Service Command in Enugu.

According to Ucheagwu, the fire erupted following a collision between a Dangote truck carrying bags of cement and a tanker transporting Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). “Preliminary investigation revealed that the accident was caused by brake failure on the Dangote truck, which rammed into the LNG tanker, damaging the tanker and causing a leakage of its contents,” he stated while briefing journalists.

Emergency responders from the Federal Fire Service received a distress call at around 3:28 a.m. and immediately deployed personnel and firefighting equipment to the scene. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, three fatalities were recorded and several others sustained injuries. The injured victims were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.

The incident has raised concerns among residents and road users about safety standards along major expressways, especially as heavy-duty trucks and tankers continue to ply Nigerian roads despite recurring accidents. Authorities have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of vehicle maintenance regulations and improved driver training.

Ucheagwu added that investigations are ongoing to determine further causes and recommend measures to prevent similar tragedies. As at press time, clean-up operations were still underway, with security agencies securing the affected area to forestall any secondary incidents.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/three-killed-n900m-property-destroyed-in-enugu-tanker-fire/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Kwara Polytechnic Allocates 2 Hectares for One Million Trees in Landmark Climate Initiative

Institution embarks on massive reforestation effort to combat climate change, pledges environmental education and community engagement

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Institution embarks on massive reforestation effort to combat climate change, pledges environmental education and community engagement

Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin has allocated two hectares of land within its main campus for the planting of one million trees, marking a significant step in climate action and environmental sustainability in Nigeria. The initiative was announced on Wednesday, 24 June, as part of the institution’s commitment to addressing the impact of deforestation and climate change in Kwara State and beyond.

According to officials at the polytechnic, the tree-planting programme will be rolled out in phases, with staff and students participating alongside local community members. The plan covers indigenous species selected for their resilience and ecological benefits, with the goal of restoring green cover and improving air quality around Ilorin metropolis.

The move comes amid growing concerns about Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change effects such as desertification, flooding, and rising temperatures. Experts have long warned that unchecked deforestation and poor waste management threaten food security and public health across the country. By dedicating two hectares for large-scale afforestation, Kwara Polytechnic joins other tertiary institutions nationwide adopting practical measures to mitigate environmental risks.

While details on funding sources were not disclosed as at press time, management representatives said the school is working with environmental agencies and non-governmental organisations to mobilise resources and technical support. “This project is not just about planting trees; it is about creating a culture of environmental stewardship among our youth,” an official noted during the launch ceremony.

Environmental advocates have welcomed the development but urged sustained monitoring to ensure long-term survival of planted trees. They also called on other educational institutions in North-Central Nigeria to replicate similar programmes. Kwara Polytechnic has promised periodic updates on progress and intends to incorporate climate education into its curriculum going forward.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/890228-polytechnic-in-bold-climate-action-allocates-2-hectares-for-a-million-trees.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Colombia Edge DR Congo 1–0 in Hard-Fought FIFA World Cup Clash

South American side secures narrow victory as both teams struggle for dominance in tightly contested group fixture

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South American side secures narrow victory as both teams struggle for dominance in tightly contested group fixture

Colombia defeated the Democratic Republic of Congo 1–0 in a closely contested FIFA World Cup match on Wednesday, with both teams displaying strong defensive performances throughout the encounter. The game, played as part of the ongoing global tournament, saw Colombia clinch all three points after a tense battle on the pitch.

The only goal of the match came in the second half, as Colombia capitalised on a rare opening to break through the Congolese defence. Both sides created limited clear-cut chances, with each team’s backline working hard to keep their opponents at bay. The Congolese squad pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages but could not find a way past Colombia’s goalkeeper.

This result is significant for Colombia’s campaign, boosting their chances of advancing from the group stage. For DR Congo, the defeat puts added pressure on their next fixture, as they must now seek points to remain in contention for progression. The match was marked by disciplined tactics and few scoring opportunities, reflecting the high stakes of World Cup football at this level.

Neither side’s coaches made major changes to their starting line-ups, opting for consistency as both teams chased vital points. The Colombian manager praised his players’ resilience after securing the win, while DR Congo’s technical crew acknowledged their team’s effort but lamented missed opportunities in front of goal.

Colombia will look to build on this momentum when they face their next group opponents, while DR Congo must regroup quickly to revive their qualification hopes. The group standings remain tight as all teams continue to battle for knockout stage spots.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/sports/football/890220-colombia-beat-dr-congo-1-0-in-tight-world-cup-contest.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Abuja: NPFL Champions to Earn ₦1bn as National Sports Commission, NFF Announce Major Reforms

New prize money and reforms aim to boost league competitiveness; stakeholders say move could attract more sponsors

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New prize money and reforms aim to boost league competitiveness; stakeholders say move could attract more sponsors

The National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Wednesday in Abuja unveiled a landmark reform package for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), including a record ₦1 billion prize for the league champions. The announcement was made at a press briefing attended by top officials and club representatives.

According to officials, the increased prize money is part of broader efforts to reposition the NPFL as one of Africa’s most competitive leagues. The NSC said the reforms were finalised after months of consultations with football stakeholders nationwide, with implementation set to begin from the next league season.

The move marks a significant shift for Nigerian club football, which has struggled in recent years with low revenue, poor infrastructure and limited sponsorship. By raising the champion’s purse to ₦1bn, organisers hope to incentivise better performance among clubs and encourage greater investment from private sector partners.

Speaking at the event, NSC officials stated that “these reforms are designed to restore confidence in domestic football and ensure our league is attractive not just locally but across Africa.” The NFF echoed this position, noting that improved funding and governance structures will help Nigerian clubs compete more effectively in continental competitions.

While some club owners welcomed the development as a step in the right direction, they also called for transparency in how funds are disbursed and monitored. The NPFL board is expected to release further details on eligibility criteria and additional support measures for participating clubs before the new season commences.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/sports/football/890221-npfl-champions-to-earn-%e2%82%a61bn-as-nsc-nff-unveil-landmark-reforms.html

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