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N171.64bn Proposed Lekki International Airport Set for Site Inspection and Review
9th March, 2025 at 18:42
By Our Reporter
Lagos, Nigeria – March 9, 2025 – In a significant step toward transforming Lagos into a global aviation and economic hub, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced that the proposed Lekki Internation
Lagos, Nigeria – March 9, 2025 – In a significant step toward transforming Lagos into a global aviation and economic hub, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced that the proposed Lekki International Airport, with an estimated first-phase cost of N171.64 billion (approximately $450 million), is scheduled for a site inspection and review by aviation regulators next week. The announcement was made on Saturday during a guided tour of Alaro City and the Universal One Development along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, where the governor was accompanied by members of the Lagos State Executive Council and top government officials.The Lekki International Airport, a flagship infrastructure project of the Sanwo-Olu administration, is poised to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and attract international investments to Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital. Spanning a 3,500-hectare site located just 10 kilometers from the Lekki Free Trade Zone (LFTZ), the airport is designed to be a Code F-compliant facility, capable of accommodating the Airbus A380, one of the world’s largest commercial aircraft. Upon completion, it is expected to handle up to 5 million passengers annually in its initial phase, with plans for future expansion to meet growing demand.
Speaking during the tour, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to delivering the airport and other transformative projects across the state. “This groundbreaking initiative is an essential part of our vision to improve connectivity in Lagos, stimulate economic growth, and draw in global investments,” he stated, echoing sentiments shared via his official X account earlier this week. He added that the site inspection marks a critical milestone as the state prepares to commence construction, subject to final regulatory approvals and funding arrangements influenced by foreign exchange (FOREX) rates.
The Lagos State Government recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Summa Group, an internationally renowned construction company, to oversee the airport’s development and construction. This partnership underscores the state’s strategy to leverage private-sector expertise and investment through a public-private partnership (PPP) model, a framework that has faced challenges in the past due to funding difficulties. Previous attempts to kickstart the project, notably in 2011 when Stanbic IBTC Bank was appointed as financial adviser with a proposed 2012 opening, were stalled by financial setbacks. However, the current administration’s renewed efforts signal a determination to see the project through.
The Lekki International Airport is part of a broader infrastructural push in the Lekki axis, which includes the recently completed Lekki Deep Sea Port and the six-lane rigid pavement Lekki-Epe Expressway. During his tour, Sanwo-Olu also provided updates on the Green Line Rail project, a planned rail link connecting Marina to Lekki, noting that funding arrangements are underway and construction will soon begin. “There is a plan for the Green Line Rail, which will extend to this neighborhood. Several transformative projects are happening beyond what we’ve seen in the last 10-15 years,” he remarked, urging investors to seize opportunities in the rapidly developing region.
The governor credited President Bola Tinubu, who initiated the Lekki Free Trade Zone two decades ago, for laying the foundation for the area’s growth. “I was privileged to be part of his team at that time. Since then, we’ve witnessed significant progress,” Sanwo-Olu said, highlighting the synergy between past and present leadership in driving Lagos forward.
Local stakeholders have welcomed the development. Ayo Gbeleyi, Chairman of Alaro City, described the Lekki Free Trade Zone as a prime investment hub, attributing its appeal to the state government’s infrastructural investments. Similarly, Yomi Ademola, Managing Director of Alaro City, praised the collaboration between the government and private investors, which has spurred job creation and attracted significant capital to the area.
The site inspection and review, scheduled for next week, will involve aviation regulators assessing the proposed location to ensure compliance with international safety and operational standards. While the project has faced delays in the past, the current momentum suggests that Lagos is inching closer to realizing its vision of a second international airport, complementing the existing Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
As the state government continues to navigate funding challenges and finalize partnerships, the Lekki International Airport remains a beacon of hope for residents and investors alike, promising to unlock new opportunities in tourism, commerce, and real estate. With construction potentially on the horizon, Lagos is positioning itself as a leading player in Africa’s aviation and economic landscape.
Governor Soludo Bans Public Preaching in Anambra State, Imposes N500,000 Fine
9th March, 2025 at 06:06
By Our Reporter
Onitsha, Anambra State – March 9, 2025
In a bold move to curb noise pollution and restore public order, Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has officially banned loud preaching i
...Onitsha, Anambra State – March 9, 2025
In a bold move to curb noise pollution and restore public order, Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has officially banned loud preaching in public spaces, including streets and markets across the state. The announcement, made on Saturday, March 8, 2025, comes with a stern warning that violators will face a hefty fine of ?500,000, signaling a crackdown on what the governor described as disruptive practices by roadside preachers.
The decision was spotlighted in a viral video circulating on social media, where Governor Soludo was seen confronting an unidentified preacher at a market, believed to be Ochanja Market in Onitsha. Addressing traders and passersby, the governor emphasized that public spaces are not platforms for unsolicited preaching. “If you want to preach the word of God, go to your church. You cannot come to a marketplace and disturb everyone,” Soludo stated, adding, “You are causing noise pollution here. Those who want to listen will come to you; you cannot force people in the market to hear your message.”
The governor’s stance is part of a broader initiative to regulate noise levels and maintain a conducive environment for business and daily life in Anambra. He noted that the use of loudspeakers in markets has been outlawed due to its adverse effects on residents’ well-being, stating, “We have banned loudspeakers in markets due to noise pollution, which affects people’s eardrums.” Soludo also hinted at a wider clampdown on “fake pastors and prophets,” accusing some of exploiting religion for personal gain while disregarding public welfare.
The enforcement of this policy follows reports of Soludo intercepting a roadside preacher during a transit through Onitsha on Saturday, where he reiterated that such activities are now illegal. “You are violating the law. You cannot take over a public space and turn it into a church,” he warned, underscoring that freedom of worship does not extend to disrupting others.
Reactions to the ban have been mixed. Traders at Ochanja Market expressed relief, with some describing the constant preaching as “noise terrorism” that hampers their business activities. However, religious groups and street preachers have voiced concerns, arguing that the measure infringes on their rights to evangelize. Critics from traditional and religious backgrounds have also accused the governor of bias, though Soludo has maintained that the policy is about public order, not religious suppression.
This latest action aligns with Soludo’s ongoing efforts to sanitize Anambra’s public spaces, including his recent campaigns against insecurity and illicit drug markets. As the state government rolls out enforcement measures, residents are watching closely to see how this ban will reshape the soundscape of Anambra’s bustling streets and markets.
The governor’s administration has yet to release an official statement detailing the implementation process, but the N500,000 fine and potential arrests loom large for those who defy the new order. For now, Anambra’s public spaces are set to become quieter—if the governor’s directive holds firm.
Armed Herdsmen Causing Unrest at Oluyole Federal Constituency, Oyo State
8th March, 2025 at 17:22
By Our Reporter
As of today, March 08, 2025, recent reports indicate that armed herdsmen have caused significant unrest in the Oluyole Federal Constituency of Oyo State, Nigeria, threatening the safety and livelihoo
As of today, March 08, 2025, recent reports indicate that armed herdsmen have caused significant unrest in the Oluyole Federal Constituency of Oyo State, Nigeria, threatening the safety and livelihoods of local residents. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, a member of the House of Representatives representing the constituency, has publicly raised the alarm about the escalating situation, particularly in communities such as Ogunmakin and the Gambari Reserve area.According to statements from Akande-Sadipe, the herdsmen, described as heavily armed with weapons like guns and cutlasses, have invaded these areas, instilling fear among residents. They are accused of deliberately destroying farm produce and intimidating local farmers, actions that she suggests may be part of a broader agenda to disrupt the region’s agricultural stability. The lawmaker highlighted the severity of the situation in a motion of Urgent Public Importance presented earlier this week on the floor of the House, emphasizing the potential for a humanitarian and food security crisis if the invasions persist.
Reports indicate that the armed herdsmen have effectively taken over parts of Ogunmakin and surrounding communities, leaving residents in a state of panic. Akande-Sadipe has called for immediate action, urging the federal government and security agencies to intervene swiftly. She has proposed an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas, an investigation into the reported intimidation and destruction, and the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators to deter further attacks. Additionally, she stressed the need for collaboration with the Oyo State Government, security forces, and community leaders to develop sustainable solutions to the crisis.
The situation has drawn attention to the broader issue of insecurity in the region, with Akande-Sadipe warning that without prompt intervention, the residents of her constituency risk being "completely wiped out from their ancestral homes." This development echoes similar incidents in other parts of Nigeria, where clashes between herdsmen and local communities have led to significant loss of life and property, though specific casualty figures from this particular incident remain unreported as of now.
The news has sparked concern among observers, with calls for both federal and state authorities to address the root causes of such conflicts and ensure the protection of vulnerable communities in Oyo State. The situation remains fluid, with further updates expected as authorities respond to the lawmaker’s pleas for action.
President Bola Tinubu Appoints Professor Attahiru Jega as Presidential Adviser and Coordinator of Presidential Livestock Reforms
8th March, 2025 at 07:48
By Our Reporter
Abuja, Nigeria – March 8, 2025 – In a significant move to address Nigeria’s longstanding challenges in the livestock sector, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Attahiru Muhammadu JegaAbuja, Nigeria – March 8, 2025 – In a significant move to address Nigeria’s longstanding challenges in the livestock sector, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Attahiru Muhammadu Jega as the Presidential Adviser and Coordinator of Presidential Livestock Reforms. The announcement, made late Friday, March 7, 2025, by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, underscores the administration’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s agricultural framework and resolving the persistent farmer-herder conflicts that have plagued the nation for decades.A Strategic Appointment
Professor Jega, a renowned Nigerian academic and former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from 2010 to 2015, brings a wealth of experience in governance, policy implementation, and institutional reform to this new role. At 68, Jega is widely respected for overseeing the credible 2015 general elections, which marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic history. His appointment signals a deliberate effort by President Tinubu to leverage Jega’s expertise in tackling one of the country’s most pressing socio-economic issues.
The announcement came via a statement from Onanuga, who posted on X at 21:04 WAT on March 7: “President Bola Tinubu appoints Professor Attahiru Jega as Presidential Adviser and Coordinator of Presidential Livestock Reforms.” The statement emphasized that Jega’s role is intended to “drive meaningful progress in the livestock sector and further strengthen national development efforts.”
Background and Context
Jega’s appointment builds on his prior involvement with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Committee, which he co-chaired alongside President Tinubu. Established in 2024, the committee was tasked with addressing obstacles to agricultural productivity and creating opportunities across the livestock value chain—spanning farmers, herders, processors, and distributors. On September 28, 2024, Jega presented a comprehensive 152-page report to the President, outlining actionable recommendations to modernize the sector and mitigate conflicts between farmers and nomadic herders.
One of the committee’s flagship proposals was the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development, a recommendation that Tinubu acted upon in July 2024. The ministry, now operational with a minister in place, aims to provide sector-specific solutions to reduce violence, boost productivity, and transform livestock farming into a commercialized industry. Jega’s new role as Presidential Adviser and Coordinator will see him oversee the implementation of these reforms, ensuring continuity and momentum.
Jega’s Vision for Livestock Reform
During a stakeholders’ workshop in Abuja last year, Jega articulated a pragmatic approach to the livestock crisis. He argued that both ranching and open grazing could coexist in the short term, provided there is sufficient awareness and infrastructure to transition fully to ranching over time. “It would be counterproductive to immediately stop open grazing as a traditional method of pastoralism,” he noted, highlighting the need for a phased strategy that balances cultural practices with modern demands.
The reforms under Jega’s purview are expected to focus on several key areas:
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Conflict Resolution: Reducing the decades-long clashes between farmers and herders, which have claimed thousands of lives and displaced communities, particularly in the Middle Belt and northern regions.
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Infrastructure Development: Enhancing facilities for ranching, veterinary services, and cross-breeding to improve livestock yields.
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Economic Growth: Positioning the livestock sector as a viable contributor to Nigeria’s GDP, attracting foreign investment, and creating jobs.
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Sustainability: Promoting environmentally friendly practices to address overgrazing and land degradation.
President Tinubu has repeatedly emphasized the economic potential of the sector. In 2024, he lamented Nigeria’s neglect of commercial livestock farming, noting that the country could have reaped significant benefits had it prioritized the industry earlier. With Jega at the helm, the administration hopes to turn this vision into reality.
Public and Political Reactions
The appointment has elicited a mix of optimism, skepticism, and debate across Nigeria, as reflected in posts on X and media coverage. Supporters view Jega as a credible figure whose track record in electoral reform bodes well for tackling the complex livestock challenge. A post from
@Engr_Abdulmalik
at 21:47 WAT on March 7 hailed it as “BREAKING NEWS,” signaling enthusiasm for the move. Similarly,
@MobilePunch
at 03:20 WAT on March 8 framed it as a strategic step to bolster national development.However, critics question the prioritization of livestock reforms amid Nigeria’s broader crises—economic stagnation, insecurity, and recurrent power outages, including the national grid collapse on March 7 that lost over 2,000 megawatts. A sarcastic post from
@RetroDropKing
at 22:27 WAT on March 7 quipped, “So Tinubu looked at Nigeria’s collapsing economy, failing power sector, insecurity, and skyrocketing cost of living… and decided that what we really need is a Presidential Livestock Reforms coordinator?” The sentiment underscores a broader frustration with the government’s focus, though it does not detract from Jega’s personal credibility.Jega’s Profile: A Man of Many Roles
Born in 1957, Attahiru Jega is a professor of political science with a distinguished career in academia and public service. He served as Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, and currently holds the position of Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education in Kano State. Internationally, he is a member of the Elections Advisory Council, reflecting his global stature in governance.
His tenure at INEC from 2010 to 2015 was marked by significant electoral reforms, including the introduction of biometric voter registration, which enhanced transparency. While his leadership was not without controversy—particularly over logistical challenges in the 2011 elections—his reputation for integrity and competence remains intact.
Implications and Next Steps
Jega’s appointment comes at a critical juncture. On the same day as the announcement, Nigeria grappled with a national grid collapse and the aftermath of a Nigerian Air Force attack on Ikeja Electric’s facilities, highlighting the interconnected nature of the country’s challenges. While the livestock sector may seem niche, its reform could have ripple effects—reducing rural violence, stabilizing food security, and boosting rural economies.
The federal government has pledged to remove legal and logistical barriers to the reforms, with the Attorney-General, Lateef Fagbemi, tasked with streamlining regulations. Meanwhile, Jega will work closely with the Ministry of Livestock Development, state governors, and private sector stakeholders to implement the committee’s recommendations.
As of 07:40 AM WAT on Saturday, March 8, 2025, no official statement from Jega himself has been released, but his acceptance of the role is confirmed. Nigerians now await concrete timelines and measurable outcomes, with hopes that this appointment will translate into tangible progress rather than remain another bureaucratic gesture.
Conclusion
President Tinubu’s decision to tap Professor Attahiru Jega as Presidential Adviser and Coordinator of Presidential Livestock Reforms reflects a blend of ambition and pragmatism. For a nation weary of unfulfilled promises, Jega’s involvement offers a glimmer of hope—rooted in his proven ability to navigate complex systems. Whether this move will silence critics or deliver the promised transformation remains to be seen, but it undeniably marks a bold step toward redefining Nigeria’s agricultural future.