Nigeria News (Standard)
Ex-NBA Chairman Okoko Urges Federal Government to License Civilian Gun Ownership in Anambra
Calls for review of firearms law spark fresh debate as security agencies face criticism over checkpoints and response times
Calls for review of firearms law spark fresh debate as security agencies face criticism over checkpoints and response times
Former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Idemili Branch, Benjamin Chukwudi Okoko, has called on the Federal Government to allow law-abiding Nigerians to legally own and carry firearms for self-defence, citing the increasing rate of insecurity nationwide. Okoko made this appeal on Thursday in Onitsha, Anambra State, stressing that many residents have become easy targets for armed men due to limited ability to protect themselves.
Okoko argued that government should urgently review the country’s firearms laws and establish a regulated licensing system so responsible citizens can acquire arms for personal protection. ‘Government should liberalise the ownership of arms and ammunition to enable Nigerians procure arms for self-defence against gunmen and bandits,’ Okoko said while addressing journalists in Anambra. He clarified that his proposal was not an invitation to indiscriminate possession of firearms but a measure to empower citizens where security agencies are unable to respond promptly.
The former NBA chairman also criticised the proliferation of security checkpoints across the South-East, alleging that many have become centres of extortion rather than effective crime prevention. He pointed out that personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Customs Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and local vigilante groups now operate numerous roadblocks, resulting in delays for motorists and increased transport costs. According to Okoko, these checkpoints waste commuters’ time, increase fuel consumption, and create hardship for businesses and travellers.
In addition, Okoko condemned repeated cargo inspections by customs officers on goods already cleared at seaports. He said such practices discourage business activities and raise the cost of moving goods within Nigeria. His comments come amid renewed public debate over whether relaxing Nigeria’s strict firearms regulations would improve personal safety or worsen insecurity by increasing weapon circulation.
Nigeria currently operates one of Africa’s toughest firearms licensing regimes under the Firearms Act. The law requires government approval before civilians can possess specified categories of weapons. While supporters of civilian gun ownership say it would help communities facing frequent attacks by armed men, opponents warn it could escalate violence if not properly managed. Security agencies have not issued any official response to Okoko’s suggestions as at press time.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Endocrinologist Warns Women Face Higher Risk of Thyroid Disorders
Medical expert attributes increased vulnerability to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, urges early detection
Medical expert attributes increased vulnerability to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, urges early detection
A leading endocrinologist in Lagos State has raised concern over the higher prevalence of thyroid disorders among women, citing hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and menopause as major contributing factors. The expert made this known on Saturday, 27 June, while addressing a gathering of health professionals in Lagos.
According to the medical specialist, thyroid diseases—including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism—are more common in women due to the impact of reproductive hormones on thyroid function. The doctor explained that these hormonal changes often trigger immune responses that can lead to thyroid gland dysfunction, especially during life stages such as pregnancy and menopause.
Thyroid disorders can significantly affect metabolism, energy levels, and overall well-being. Many Nigerian women remain unaware of their risk or mistake symptoms for other health issues. The endocrinologist emphasised that early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in preventing complications such as infertility, heart disease, or severe fatigue. “Women should pay attention to persistent symptoms like unexplained weight changes, mood swings, or swelling in the neck area,” the expert advised.
The medical community is calling for increased public awareness and routine screening for thyroid disorders among women, especially those with a family history of the condition. The Lagos-based doctor urged government and non-governmental organisations to support educational campaigns and affordable diagnostic services across Nigeria.
With rising cases of non-communicable diseases nationwide, health practitioners warn that neglecting thyroid health could have long-term consequences for women’s health outcomes in Nigeria. Further consultations with specialists are recommended for anyone experiencing persistent symptoms related to thyroid dysfunction.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Vice President Shettima Announces €35bn Nigeria-EU Trade, €26bn FDI at Lagos Business Forum
Federal Government says partnership has created over 130,000 direct jobs as EU pledges deeper economic cooperation
Federal Government says partnership has created over 130,000 direct jobs as EU pledges deeper economic cooperation
Vice President Kashim Shettima has revealed that annual trade between Nigeria and the European Union (EU) now exceeds €35 billion, with European foreign direct investment (FDI) reaching about €26 billion. Shettima made this announcement in Lagos on Thursday during the opening of the 10th Nigeria–EU Business Forum, highlighting the growing economic ties between both sides.
Represented by Princess Zahra Mustapha Audu, Director-General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Shettima described the partnership as a strategic alliance that has moved beyond diplomatic relations to a robust economic collaboration. According to him, more than 130,000 direct jobs have been created in Nigeria through EU investments.
He noted that the annual business forum has become a key platform for translating policy discussions into actual investments and development initiatives. “The Nigeria-European Union Business Forum has evolved beyond a dialogue platform. It has become an important vehicle for translating shared aspirations into investments, commercial partnerships and sustainable growth,” Shettima said in his address.
The Vice President explained that ongoing reforms by government are targeted at making Nigeria more attractive for foreign investment and improving ease of doing business, particularly for European companies operating in sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture and technology. He stated that both Nigeria and the EU remain committed to expanding investment flows, increasing trade volume and supporting private sector partnerships under their recently strengthened Strategic Partnership agreement.
Stakeholders at the forum welcomed the figures as evidence of deepening cooperation but called for more progress in areas like infrastructure, energy transition and inclusive growth. EU representatives reaffirmed their readiness to support Nigerian priorities through targeted investments and technical support. The next phase of engagement is expected to focus on boosting technology transfer, renewable energy projects and job creation across various sectors.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria-eu-economic-ties-hit-e35bn-annual-trade-attract-e26bn-fdi/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigeria’s Top Journalists Exit Newsrooms Amid Poor Pay and Challenging Work Environment
Media professionals in Lagos and Abuja cite stagnating wages, lack of equipment, and hostile conditions as reasons for mass departures
Media professionals in Lagos and Abuja cite stagnating wages, lack of equipment, and hostile conditions as reasons for mass departures
A growing number of leading Nigerian journalists are leaving established newsrooms in Lagos and Abuja, with many citing not just low remuneration but also unfavourable working conditions and limited career progression as major factors. The trend, which became more pronounced since early 2026, has sparked concern among industry observers about the future of investigative journalism in the country.
Journalists who have exited major media houses point to stagnant salaries that have failed to keep pace with inflation, as well as a lack of access to modern equipment and training opportunities. Some former editors from Lagos-based outlets said that even experienced staff are increasingly seeking better prospects outside traditional media—either abroad or in corporate communications roles—due to frustration with management practices and a culture that discourages dissent or innovation.
The development comes at a time when Nigeria’s media sector faces mounting financial pressures. According to analysts, declining advertising revenue and rising operational costs have forced many publishers to freeze wages and reduce newsroom budgets. This situation is compounded by political interference and threats to press freedom, making it difficult for journalists to carry out their duties effectively.
Industry groups like the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have called on both government and media owners to urgently address these challenges. “Journalists deserve fair pay, safe working conditions, and professional respect,” an NUJ official said during a recent meeting in Abuja. However, some media executives argue that the business environment makes significant pay increases unrealistic at this time.
As more experienced reporters exit the profession or move into other sectors, stakeholders warn that the quality of news reporting may decline further. Observers stress the need for urgent reforms to retain talent and safeguard the role of journalism in Nigeria’s democracy.
Obi na Dickson Kwupụtara Megide Ikpochapụ NDC, Kpọrọ Ya Mmebi Usoro Ọchịchị Ndị Ọtụtụ
Lagos Endocrinologist Warns Women Face Higher Risk of Thyroid Disorders
Vice President Shettima Announces €35bn Nigeria-EU Trade, €26bn FDI at Lagos Business Forum
Nigeria’s Top Journalists Exit Newsrooms Amid Poor Pay and Challenging Work Environment
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Ex-NBA Chairman Okoko Urges Federal Government to License Civilian Gun Ownership in Anambra
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