Nigeria News (Standard)
Katsina State Bans Fuel Sales in Jerrycans, Restricts Motorcycle Use in Jibia, Batsari LGAs Over Security Concerns
State authorities announce new measures to curb armed attacks and bandit activities in two troubled local government areas
State authorities announce new measures to curb armed attacks and bandit activities in two troubled local government areas
Katsina State government has imposed a ban on the sale of petrol and other petroleum products in jerrycans and restricted motorcycle movements in Jibia and Batsari Local Government Areas, effective Tuesday. The move is part of fresh security measures aimed at tackling rising incidents of banditry and armed attacks in the affected parts of the state.
According to the directive, all filling stations within Jibia and Batsari LGAs are prohibited from dispensing fuel into jerrycans or any containers other than vehicle tanks. In addition, commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as okada, are now restricted within these council areas as authorities seek to disrupt the logistics networks of armed groups blamed for recent violence.
The decision comes amid heightened insecurity across parts of Katsina North-West zone, with residents and local leaders repeatedly calling for stronger action from security agencies. Both Jibia and Batsari LGAs have witnessed frequent raids by gunmen targeting rural communities for kidnapping, cattle rustling, and extortion. Previous attempts by government to impose curfews and restrict movement in hotspot areas have met mixed results.
State officials said the latest restrictions are intended to cut off fuel supplies often used by criminal elements to power motorcycles during attacks. A spokesperson for the Katsina State government stated that security agencies have been directed to enforce compliance strictly, warning that violators risk prosecution. No formal reaction was immediately available from commercial transport associations or civil society groups as at press time.
The government has also urged residents to cooperate with security personnel and report suspicious activity promptly. Authorities say they will review the effectiveness of these measures periodically, with a view to adjusting strategies based on evolving threats in the region.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigerian Legion Marks 62 Years in Lagos, Expands Welfare Support for Retired Military Personnel
Anniversary highlights challenges facing ex-servicemen as Legion renews call for sustained government intervention
Anniversary highlights challenges facing ex-servicemen as Legion renews call for sustained government intervention
The Nigerian Legion, the association dedicated to supporting retired military personnel, commemorated its 62nd anniversary in Lagos on Monday. The event underscored the difficulties faced by ex-servicemen across Nigeria after years of active duty, particularly as they transition into civilian life without the institutional support, steady income, and healthcare they once received.
At the celebration, Legion officials noted that many veterans struggle with reintegration due to gaps in welfare and healthcare coverage. The body reiterated its commitment to providing support services, including financial assistance and advocacy for improved benefits. The anniversary was marked by renewed appeals to government agencies and private sector stakeholders to strengthen existing schemes that assist ex-service members.
The Nigerian Legion was established to serve as a safety net for former soldiers and their families. Over the past six decades, it has played a pivotal role in delivering welfare packages and lobbying for policy reforms aimed at enhancing veterans’ quality of life. As at this anniversary, leaders said more needs to be done by both federal and state authorities to address issues like delayed pensions and limited access to medical care.
Officials of the Legion used the occasion to urge relevant ministries and defence authorities to prioritise prompt disbursement of entitlements. They also encouraged partnerships with non-governmental organisations to improve training and job placement opportunities for retired personnel. No opposition or independent expert reaction was immediately available as at press time.
The Legion stated that it would continue its advocacy while planning further outreach programmes in various states. As Nigeria grapples with economic pressures and security challenges, stakeholders insist that protecting the welfare of those who served remains a national responsibility.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Ports Set to Receive 37 Vessels Laden with Petroleum Products and Food Items, Says NPA
Nigerian Ports Authority confirms multiple consignments to boost supplies amid economic pressures on import-dependent sectors
Nigerian Ports Authority confirms multiple consignments to boost supplies amid economic pressures on import-dependent sectors
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced that 37 vessels carrying petroleum products, food items, and other goods are expected to berth at Lagos ports in the coming days. The agency disclosed this development on Tuesday, highlighting efforts to enhance the flow of essential commodities into Nigeria’s commercial hub.
According to the NPA, preparations are underway at Lagos ports for the arrival of these ships, which are scheduled in phases over the next several days. The authority did not specify the breakdown of cargo by volume but indicated that consignments include critical imports such as fuel and various foodstuffs.
The scheduled arrivals come at a time when Nigeria faces persistent challenges with fuel distribution and rising food costs. Lagos remains a key entry point for imported goods, with port activities directly impacting market supplies across the country. Stakeholders in the logistics sector say timely clearance and distribution of these consignments are vital to easing inflationary pressures currently affecting millions of Nigerians.
While no specific figures were given for tonnage or vessel capacity, the NPA assured operators that it is working with relevant agencies to ensure efficient handling and prompt discharge of goods once the vessels dock. “We remain committed to facilitating trade and ensuring steady supplies for Nigerian consumers,” an NPA spokesperson said in a statement.
Industry watchers expect that the influx of petroleum products will help stabilise supply chains for filling stations in Lagos and adjoining states, while increased food imports could offer temporary relief from escalating prices. The NPA says it will continue monitoring port operations closely as more vessels are scheduled in subsequent weeks.
Nigeria News (Standard)
UNICEF Flags Rising Child Malnutrition and Out-of-School Figures in Abuja, Urges Swift Action
Six in ten Nigerian children face violence as federal government faces calls to boost protection and education funding
Six in ten Nigerian children face violence as federal government faces calls to boost protection and education funding
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has raised alarm over worsening rates of malnutrition and declining school attendance among children in Nigeria, as the country joined others to mark the Day of the African Child on Sunday in Abuja. The agency warned that urgent intervention is needed, with about 10.5 million Nigerian children out of school and an estimated two million suffering from severe acute malnutrition.
According to UNICEF, Nigeria now ranks as one of the countries with the highest number of stunted children globally, with 32 percent of those under five years facing chronic malnutrition. These health challenges are worsened by rising food prices and poverty, especially in rural communities across states like Kano, Jigawa, Katsina (North-West), and Borno (North-East), where insecurity further restricts access to both food and schools.
Despite official policy guaranteeing free primary education nationwide, millions remain excluded due to child labour, early marriage, inadequate school infrastructure, and conflict-related disruptions. “One in every five out-of-school children worldwide is Nigerian,” UNICEF stated on Sunday. Attacks on schools and student abductions have forced many parents to keep their wards at home, particularly in northern states.
The agency also highlighted a disturbing trend of violence against minors: six out of every ten Nigerian children experience some form of physical, emotional or sexual abuse before age 18. One in four girls and one in ten boys have faced sexual violence before adulthood; however, only a small fraction receive any professional help after such incidents. “Our children deserve safety at home, at school and within their communities,” UNICEF added.
Federal authorities say they are working with state governments to scale up feeding programmes and strengthen security around learning centres. However, experts warn that without increased budgetary allocation for child welfare and stronger enforcement of child protection laws, Nigeria risks failing its next generation. Advocacy groups continue to call for coordinated action from all stakeholders as the country reflects on the sacrifices made by young people during the Soweto Uprising – the historical event commemorated each year on June 16.
