The House of Representatives has called on the Nigerian Federal Government to enhance waste management strategies in response to the increasing threat of environmental pollution and its associated health risks across the country. This move came after a motion was adopted during a plenary session on Tuesday, sponsored by Julius Pondi, a lawmaker representing Burutu Federal Constituency in Delta State.

The motion, titled “Waste Pollution and the Management of Its Impacts on Health and Environment,” highlighted the significant challenges Nigerians face in handling waste, particularly in the oil and gas sectors and manufacturing industries. Pondi pointed out the negative effects of ineffective waste disposal practices, especially in areas with industrial activities, such as the Niger Delta region, where pollution from gas flaring, oil spills, and hazardous discharges are prevalent.

The lawmaker raised concerns over the inadequate enforcement of existing environmental protection laws, warning that this neglect could lead to severe health risks, environmental degradation, and agricultural decline. In light of this, the House urged relevant government agencies, including the Ministry of Environment, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), to strengthen enforcement measures.

Furthermore, the House called for collaboration between state and local governments, oil companies, manufacturing industries, and SMEs to adopt safer waste disposal practices. The House also mandated its Committee on Environment to conduct a nationwide survey on environmental pollution and compliance with waste management regulations, with findings due in four weeks for further legislative action.

Poland’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Pawel Wronski, expressed concern on Tuesday regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to pause military aid to Ukraine. According to Wronski, this significant move was made without consulting NATO allies or the Ramstein group, which has been supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Wronski emphasized the political importance and serious implications of this decision, noting that it was made unilaterally by Trump.

This development follows Trump’s broader shift in U.S. policy toward Russia and Ukraine, a change he initiated upon taking office earlier this year. Trump’s actions have sparked reactions internationally, as both Ukraine and Russia have been engaged in conflict since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Trump’s decision could have far-reaching consequences, especially as the war continues to affect global stability.

Rwanda has condemned Canada’s decision to impose sanctions over its involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The sanctions come in response to the support of the M23 armed group, which has been accused of receiving backing from Rwandan soldiers. The group has recently made significant territorial gains in the eastern DRC, which has led to widespread international criticism.

On Monday, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly condemned Rwanda’s actions, stating that the country’s involvement in the DRC conflict constitutes violations of DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as breaches of the United Nations Charter. In response, Canada suspended export permits for controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda and announced a review of its participation in international events hosted by Kigali.

Rwanda’s foreign ministry described Canada’s stance as “shameful,” emphasizing that the sanctions will not resolve the conflict. It also criticized Canada’s approach, stating that the country cannot claim to support regional peace efforts while placing all the blame on Rwanda.

The sanctions follow similar measures from the UK and the US, with the British government suspending most bilateral aid to Rwanda and the US sanctioning Rwandan Minister for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, for his alleged role in supporting M23.

Rwanda has called for a more nuanced approach to the situation, asserting that the ongoing sanctions and condemnation do not address the broader regional issues contributing to the conflict.

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its stance against corporal punishment in public schools, emphasizing the importance of counselling as an effective method for correcting student misbehavior. The state’s Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, reiterated this policy in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday.

Alli-Balogun stated that flogging students for misbehavior is prohibited in Lagos schools. The government’s goal is to prevent any harm to students, including physical injury or even death, that could result from corporal punishment. He emphasized that flogging is not seen as the best method for correction.

Instead, the state has adopted alternative disciplinary measures, including counselling, to help correct students’ behavior. The commissioner explained that minor punishments, such as kneeling, picking up dirt, or cutting grass on the school grounds, could be used as part of positive reinforcement. These methods are designed to encourage students to understand the consequences of their actions and foster better behavior.

Alli-Balogun also pointed out that poor parental upbringing is often a contributing factor to student misbehavior and called on parents to take more responsibility for their children’s upbringing. He assured that the Lagos State Government is committed to eradicating indiscipline and creating a conducive learning environment for all students.

The state officially banned corporal punishment in 2022 and implemented the Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme in schools to further promote student welfare and discipline.

Primate Elijah Ayodele, the Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has issued a warning to several Nigerian politicians, including former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, urging them to seek divine guidance before forming any alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement released by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele predicted that politicians who have lost out in major parties like the PDP, APC, Labour Party, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) will attempt to create a “third force” political party to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027. However, he emphasized that none of the current opposition parties have the strength to challenge Tinubu, as they are all fearful of the potential consequences such as legal troubles or political losses.

The cleric pointed out that while Atiku and Obi are both unlikely to win elections individually, he believes they could form a powerful alliance if they unite. He urged these politicians to carefully consider their actions before moving forward with a coalition.

Ayodele also stated that El-Rufai would not be able to challenge President Tinubu alone and reiterated the importance of strong political figures joining forces. He advised the opposition to seek the face of God before proceeding with any attempt to form a third force, cautioning that any poorly planned effort would result in wasted time and energy.

The Primate further commented that internal sabotage within opposition parties could undermine their effectiveness, as those within the parties who should be working to strengthen them may actually be working to weaken them. He expressed his intent to hold off on further comments regarding the third force until he sees who will be involved in its formation.

In his final remarks, Ayodele declared that the current opposition in Nigeria is ineffective, claiming that “the opposition is dead,” and warned that if the key figures do not come together, their efforts will not succeed.

The Igbo Community Association (ICA), the leading socio-cultural body representing the Igbo people in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called on the Nigerian government to prioritize the establishment of a seaport in the South-East region. In a statement signed by its President General, Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, the ICA expressed concerns about the economic injustice stemming from the lack of a functional seaport in the region, which it claims has stifled business growth, inflated costs, and subjected local traders and entrepreneurs to undue hardship.

The group argued that the exclusion of the South East from Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure has placed an unfair economic burden on Igbo business owners. They are forced to contend with the congested and exploitative conditions at Lagos ports, where goods must be transported from distant locations at great cost and inconvenience. Despite the region’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s economy, the South East remains without an operational seaport, while other regions benefit from multiple maritime facilities.

The ICA highlighted the six official seaports under the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), including those in Lagos, Rivers, Delta, and Calabar, with only two of the Lagos ports being fully operational. This situation exacerbates logistical challenges for South East importers who endure excessive delays, exploitative levies, and multiple extortions.

The ICA specifically called for the revival and expedited development of two long-planned seaports in the South East: the Obeaku Ndoki Port in Abia State and the Oseakwa Seaport in Anambra State. The Oseakwa Seaport, located along the Oseakwa River in Ihiala Local Government Area, is described as a project of significant economic potential. The region, once an active maritime hub during the colonial era, has the infrastructure and economic activities—especially in cities like Onitsha, Aba, and Nnewi—to support a viable seaport.

The ICA refuted claims that a South East seaport would be unviable, citing the region’s thriving commercial sector, which accounts for a large portion of Nigeria’s non-oil trade. The group emphasized that establishing a seaport in the South East should be a priority for national economic growth and development, not a secondary concern.

The association warned that continued neglect of the region’s infrastructure would only deepen feelings of marginalization. While acknowledging the progress made with the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), the ICA stressed that it must be viewed as part of a larger developmental agenda that includes the creation of a fully operational seaport.

The statement concluded with a call for Igbo political leaders, stakeholders, and business elites to unite in demanding urgent federal action on the issue, urging that the time for action is now.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that Canada will impose 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods in response to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. These tariffs, which will begin on Tuesday, are a direct retaliation for Trump’s decision to impose additional tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, as well as a 10% tariff on Chinese imports.

Trudeau criticized the U.S. tariffs, particularly the argument about drug imports, including fentanyl, as a justification for the actions. He stated that there was “no justification for these actions” and vowed that Canada would not let the decision go unanswered.

In his announcement, Trudeau specified that Canada would initially apply tariffs on $30 billion worth of American goods, followed by tariffs on another $125 billion worth of products within 21 days. These measures are set to go into effect at 12:01 a.m., aligning with the timing of Trump’s tariffs, which were set to begin at midnight.

The move marks a significant escalation in trade tensions between the two nations, with both sides imposing retaliatory measures on each other’s goods.

Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called for an intervention to resolve the ongoing feud between the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central. He described the feud as “shameful and unfortunate,” urging well-meaning Nigerians, particularly elders, to step in and restore peace in the National Assembly.

Hayab emphasized that members of the National Assembly, as “honourable” representatives, should be treated with respect, and the issue between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan must be addressed to ensure peace and sanity in the legislature. He stressed that Nigerians should focus on mending relationships rather than finding fault, for the good of the country.

The CAN Chairman also highlighted the seriousness of sexual harassment allegations, urging that such matters should not be taken lightly. He called on the media to avoid fueling the feud through sensational coverage, as this could lead to further division among Nigerians.

Hayab appealed to members of the National Assembly to focus their efforts on improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly after the passage of the 2025 national budget. He also urged all parties involved in the feud to refrain from making statements that could divide the country along gender or regional lines, advocating for unity and peace.

The Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, has announced that 2025 will be a pivotal year for the transformative reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with tangible improvements expected in the lives of Nigerians. Minister Mohammed Idris highlighted the gradual reduction in food prices as one of the early positive impacts, providing much-needed relief to the people.

The Ministerial Briefing Sessions, held on Tuesday, also featured updates from other key ministers, including Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, and Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of State. They used the opportunity to share the achievements and progress made in their respective sectors.

Idris also pointed to the signing of the N54.2 trillion budget by President Tinubu as a sign of the administration’s dedication to fostering economic growth, improving national security, developing infrastructure, and advancing human capital. He described the 2025 budget as more than just a financial document, calling it a bold roadmap aimed at achieving economic resilience, social stability, and overall national progress.

The budget outlines key areas of focus, including security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and solid minerals, which are essential for the country’s socio-economic development. Idris reassured the public that the government is committed to efficiently implementing the budget to ensure that it has a meaningful impact on the lives of Nigerians.

The House of Representatives has extended the deadline for the submission of memoranda regarding the creation of new states and local governments in Nigeria to March 26, 2025. This decision was made in response to public requests for more time to refine and resubmit proposals that comply with the requirements outlined in Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Previously, on February 7, 2025, the House Committee on Constitution Review had reported receiving memoranda for the creation of 31 new states. However, none of these proposals met the constitutional requirements for consideration. To be eligible, proposals for state creation must garner support from a two-thirds majority of elected parliamentarians from the affected area across the Senate, House of Representatives, state House of Assembly, and local government councils.

For local government creation, the proposals must be backed by votes from the state House of Assembly and the results of a referendum, which must then be submitted to the National Assembly for legislative action.

The guidelines for submitting proposals require three hard copies to be sent to the Secretariat of the Committee at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja. Soft copies should be emailed to info@hccr.gov.ng, and the final submission deadline is set for March 26, 2025.

Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House and Chairman of the Committee on Constitution Review, emphasized that the goal is to ensure a thorough, constitutionally compliant process that addresses the legitimate desires of Nigerians for the creation of new states and local governments. He affirmed the House’s commitment to upholding democratic principles while adhering to constitutional provisions.

The ongoing price war between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Dangote Refinery has led to a significant reduction in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), bringing some relief to Nigerian consumers. On Monday, NNPCL announced its new prices of N860 and N880 per litre for different regions in Nigeria, including Lagos and Abuja. This followed closely on the heels of Dangote Refinery’s price reduction, which had dropped its petrol price to N880 per litre just days earlier.

The situation has sparked a competitive battle between the two entities, which could result in further price drops as they try to outdo each other. According to Billy Gillis-Harry, the National President of the Petroleum Retailers Outlets Owners Association, Nigerians stand to benefit from the competition, with the price reduction providing a much-needed relief for people struggling with the high cost of living.

Abubakar Maigadi, the President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, described this as an example of the benefits of deregulation in the oil sector. He emphasized that the reduction in prices is a positive outcome of competition and that it brings joy not only to consumers but also to marketers in the industry.

Both industry leaders have suggested that more price reductions could be expected as the price war intensifies, benefiting Nigerian consumers in the long run.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) marked the 2025 International Civil Defence Day Organisation (ICDO) by emphasizing the need for collective action, international cooperation, and community engagement to strengthen civil defense and disaster risk reduction efforts. The event, held at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja, featured a keynote address by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who highlighted the increasing threats to security worldwide and the growing importance of civil defense in protecting human lives and national assets.

Tunji-Ojo, represented by Abdulmalik Jibrin, stressed the need for preparedness, prevention, and swift responses to disasters, underlining the importance of global and local collaboration in promoting civil defense.

In his remarks, the Commandant-General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Audi, focused on the significance of cooperation among security agencies and stakeholders in ensuring security. He also provided updates on the Corps’ achievements, such as the establishment of specialized squads like the Special Intelligence Squad (SIS), Mining Marshall, Agro Rangers, and Special Female Squad. These units have successfully thwarted criminal activities such as kidnappings, illegal refineries, and illegal mining operations.

Audi also highlighted the NSCDC’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel, presenting cheques totaling over N188 million to the families of deceased officers as part of their insurance benefits.

The International Civil Defence Day, celebrated on March 1 each year, is a global event that raises awareness about the vital role civil defense organizations play in safeguarding communities from natural and man-made disasters. The NSCDC’s efforts in disaster risk management, crisis response, and the protection of critical infrastructure are crucial in this ongoing mission.

This day serves as an important reminder of the need for constant vigilance, cooperation, and proactive measures in disaster management and national security.

Would you like to learn more about the role of civil defense organizations or the specific work being done by the NSCDC?