Nigeria News (Standard)
Osun APC Ex-Lawmakers Urge IGP to Block Alleged Adeleke Push for Police Commissioner Redeployment
Forum raises alarm over suspected thugs in Osun ahead of August governorship poll; calls for security agency investigation
Forum raises alarm over suspected thugs in Osun ahead of August governorship poll; calls for security agency investigation
Former members of the Osun State House of Assembly under the All Progressives Congress (APC) have called on Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, to resist reported efforts by Governor Ademola Adeleke seeking the redeployment of the state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan. The ex-lawmakers issued this appeal during a press briefing held in Osogbo on Thursday, expressing concern over alleged political interference ahead of the 15 August governorship election.
Addressing journalists, Honourable Timothy Owoeye, immediate past Speaker and spokesperson for the forum, claimed that Governor Adeleke and unnamed state government officials were making backdoor moves to have Commissioner Gotan transferred out before the crucial poll. Owoeye asserted that these manoeuvres posed a threat to neutrality and security in Osun during the election period.
The forum also alleged that suspected thugs had started arriving in Osun State, purportedly sponsored by ruling party interests. Owoeye charged security agencies to investigate these claims, warning that such activities could lead to violence against APC members and supporters if not urgently addressed. “We are deeply concerned by reports suggesting Governor Adeleke and some individuals within government are dissatisfied with the activities of the Commissioner of Police because he refuses to do their bidding,” Owoeye said at the press conference.
The group urged the Inspector General and other heads of security agencies to maintain their current deployments and resist any pressure to transfer officers perceived as impartial. They further warned that any attempt to influence security arrangements before the poll could undermine public confidence in both the process and outcome.
As at press time, government officials from Osun could not be immediately reached for comment on these allegations. The development highlights growing political tension in Osun ahead of next month’s election, with both APC and PDP stakeholders closely monitoring moves around security agency deployments.
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.
Nigeria News (Standard)
REA Commissions Solar Mini-Grid to Electrify Five Lagos Communities
New off-grid project aims to boost local economy and improve living standards in underserved areas of Lagos State
New off-grid project aims to boost local economy and improve living standards in underserved areas of Lagos State
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has commissioned a solar mini-grid system to provide electricity for five communities in Lagos State, South-West Nigeria. The commissioning ceremony took place on Thursday, 25 June 2026, marking a significant step towards bridging the energy access gap in the state.
According to officials present at the event, the solar mini-grid is designed to supply reliable power to hundreds of households and small businesses across the targeted communities. The project is part of REA’s broader initiative to expand renewable energy solutions in off-grid and underserved rural areas nationwide.
Many residents in these Lagos communities have long depended on petrol generators and lanterns due to inadequate grid supply. With the newly commissioned mini-grid, beneficiaries are expected to enjoy improved electricity access for domestic use and commercial activities. This intervention is also projected to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to environmental sustainability efforts.
Speaking at the commissioning, representatives from REA said the agency remains committed to deploying clean energy infrastructure across all geopolitical zones. They noted that similar projects have already been completed in other parts of the country, with more underway. The agency also encouraged community members to take ownership of the facility for its long-term sustainability.
Stakeholders believe this development will stimulate micro-enterprises and enhance quality of life for residents. Local leaders expressed optimism that access to regular power supply will drive economic opportunities and social development. Further expansion of off-grid energy solutions is expected as part of government’s ongoing rural electrification programme.
