Health workers in Kaduna State have suspended their five-day warning strike following fruitful negotiations with the state government, resulting in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This development was announced in a communique issued by Nassa Yashi, the State Secretary of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), on Wednesday.

Key points from the communique include:

1. **Negotiations and MOU Signing**: The health workers engaged in meaningful discussions with the government, leading to the signing of an MOU aimed at addressing their demands for improved welfare.

2. **Reason for Suspension**: The strike has been suspended to create an atmosphere for further negotiations and to allow the government time to fulfill its commitments under the MOU.

3. **Resumption of Duty**: Workers are expected to resume their normal duties immediately following the suspension of the strike.

4. **Appreciation and Readiness**: The State Administrative Council (SAC) expressed appreciation for the support and determination shown by the health workers during the struggle. Yashi reiterated the readiness of the health workers’ representatives to advocate for their members’ interests without compromise.

5. **Conditional Suspension**: The suspension of the strike is conditional on the government fulfilling its promises as outlined in the MOU. Should there be a failure to meet these commitments, the health workers reserve the right to resume their industrial action at an appropriate time.

Overall, the resolution marks a temporary cessation of the strike action as both parties work towards implementing the agreements reached in the MOU for the benefit of health workers in Kaduna State.

The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Public Works Corporation (LSPWC), has undertaken significant road maintenance efforts in the first half of 2024. According to Tokunbo Ajanaku, the General Manager of LSPWC, a total of 393 roads across various local governments and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) have been repaired and rehabilitated. These efforts encompass a range of interventions from total reconstruction to routine maintenance and palliative measures.

Key highlights of the road maintenance activities include:

1. **Types of Interventions**: The LSPWC utilized approaches such as asphalt premix, interlocking paving stones, and palliative interventions to address road maintenance and rehabilitation needs.

2. **Scope of Work**: The interventions covered major reconstruction, rehabilitation, routine maintenance, and fixing of inner roads within public facilities. Specific examples include Eluku Street in Agbowa-Ikosi, Igbogbo-Baiyeku Road in Ikorodu, and various streets in Ikeja GRA, Oshodi, Surulere, and other areas across Lagos State.

3. **Completion and Progress**: By mid-year 2024, 69 major rehabilitation projects had been completed, with ongoing work on 15 roads undergoing total reconstruction across different local governments.

4. **Challenges and Mitigation**: Challenges such as heavy rainfall and cost-push inflation impacted project timelines and costs. Despite these challenges, the LSPWC continued to deploy resources to ensure road infrastructure improvements were implemented promptly.

5. **Routine Maintenance**: A total of 240 roads were routinely maintained to prevent minor issues like potholes from escalating into more significant road defects.

6. **Community Engagement**: Ajanaku emphasized the importance of community involvement in preserving road infrastructure, urging residents to collaborate with the government to prevent habits that contribute to road damage.

Overall, the Lagos State Government’s efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing road infrastructure across the state, addressing both immediate repair needs and long-term maintenance strategies to ensure safe and accessible roads for residents.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern warning to airlines engaging in deceptive departure time scheduling, stating that such actions will be met with serious regulatory consequences. The Acting Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to regulatory infractions, stressing that airlines must adhere strictly to regulations regarding departure time displays both at their counters and on promotional materials.

Najomo underscored the NCAA’s commitment to facilitating a business-friendly environment for operators, including streamlined licensing processes aimed at enhancing efficiency. Despite these efforts, he highlighted that the authority expects airlines to reciprocate by delivering world-class services to passengers, ensuring transparency and reliability.

In a move to enforce compliance, the NCAA recently suspended permits for ten holders of Non-Commercial Flights (PHCF) for failure to comply with recertification advisories. Najomo clarified that these actions were taken in accordance with the Civil Aviation Act 2022 and reiterated the authority’s mandate to uphold safety, discipline, and economic regulation within the aviation sector.

Furthermore, the NCAA affirmed its resolve to combat illegal charter operations and debunked misconceptions surrounding recent regulatory actions, emphasizing their legal basis and commitment to industry transparency and accountability.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has authorized the release of 56 inmates from various correctional facilities in the state, along with the conversion of one death sentence to life imprisonment and the granting of a pardon to another inmate. This decision was made based on the advice of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy and in accordance with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended).

The statement issued by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, highlighted that the Advisory Council meticulously reviewed each application for clemency, considering factors such as the nature of the offense, length of incarceration, age, health, and conduct of the inmates. The council’s recommendations were guided by established guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency in the decision-making process.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s action aims to alleviate congestion in Lagos State correctional facilities as part of broader justice sector reforms. The release, commutation, and pardon orders were signed by the governor on June 25, 2024, underscoring the administration’s commitment to promoting justice and rehabilitation within the state’s correctional system.

The House of Representatives Committee investigating the increase in cement prices in Nigeria has taken a strong stance, emphasizing that no individual or entity, including Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Dangote Cement, is above parliamentary scrutiny. The committee has summoned Dangote Cement’s management to address concerns over alleged arbitrary price hikes. During a recent hearing, committee members expressed dismay over the impact of these price increases on Nigerians, emphasizing the need for fair pricing practices.

The committee has issued a stern warning, threatening to arrest Dangote Cement’s management if they fail to appear at the next hearing. They have also summoned other stakeholders, including the Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and the Central Bank of Nigeria, to discuss possible measures to alleviate the burden of high cement prices on consumers.

The committee’s chair, Rep. Jonathan Gaza, underscored the parliament’s authority to hold accountable those who neglect the interests of Nigerian citizens, stating that legislative powers will be exercised if necessary to ensure compliance with their directives.

In a surprising turn of events, iconic rapper and music producer Kanye West has announced his retirement from music. The multi-award-winning artist made this revelation during a recent public appearance, sending shockwaves through the entertainment industry and his legion of fans worldwide.

“I’m retiring from music,” Kanye stated succinctly, marking the end of an era for one of the most influential figures in contemporary music. Known for his innovative approach to hip-hop and his boundary-pushing projects, Kanye’s career has been nothing short of legendary.

Spanning over two decades, Kanye’s influence in the music industry is unparalleled. From chart-topping albums to groundbreaking production techniques, his work has continually redefined the genre. Beyond music, Kanye has made significant strides in fashion, politics, and business, always staying in the public eye with his bold and often controversial statements.

This decision comes after a tumultuous period in Kanye’s personal and professional life, which has seen him navigate various challenges and controversies. In his announcement, Kanye hinted at a desire to shift focus towards his business ventures, philanthropic efforts, and personal growth.

While fans may feel a sense of loss at this announcement, it’s also a moment to reflect on the immense impact Kanye has had on the music world. His legacy includes not just his own prolific body of work, but also his influence on countless other artists and the broader cultural landscape.

As Kanye West steps away from music, the world will be watching closely to see what the next chapter holds for this multifaceted artist. His retirement marks the end of a significant era but also the beginning of new possibilities for one of the most dynamic figures in modern entertainment.

Popular Nigerian comedian and activist, Mr Macaroni, has voiced his disapproval of using connections to illegally detain citizens, emphasizing the need to seek justice through the court system. His comments come in response to claims that actress Toyin Abraham allegedly used the police to detain a man who defamed her.

Mr Macaroni took to X (formerly Twitter) on July 9, 2024, to stress the importance of following the legal process. He wrote, “If anyone insults you or defames your character, go to court and seek justice. APC trolls insult me and tell so many lies against my person. I have never for once used the police to illegally arrest or detain anyone and Never will I. There is serious danger in using the police to illegally detain citizens.”

He further warned against the misuse of power and the potential consequences, stating, “I hope those of you supporting this abuse of power won’t cry foul when you or your loved ones are the victims. To be clear, this is not to support online bullying and harassment. I strongly condemn it and believe that those involved should be made to face the consequences of their actions.”

Mr Macaroni highlighted the importance of adhering to the rule of law, adding, “But go to court and seek justice like the rest of us do. Don’t use your friends in government to illegally detain citizens. It may favour you now, but think about tomorrow when you no longer have that power or the closeness to that power. It might not be you, it might be someone you care about. What will become of us if everyone takes the law into their own hands?”

His comments followed reports that Toyin Abraham allegedly had a man and his mother detained by the police for defaming her on X. This led to backlash against the actress, with users criticizing her for purportedly using her connections to detain the man. Abraham responded to some of the users but later deleted her comments.

Mr Macaroni’s post garnered numerous reactions from fans and fellow X users, with one fan commenting, “Toyin Abraham dan go use police arrest person because of a mere tweet. Isn’t that the height of oppression?” Mr Macaroni responded, “It is not a ‘mere’ tweet if it defames her character. It is a crime and it is punishable by law. My point is that any aggrieved person should seek justice in a court of law and not use their connections with those in government to take the law into their own hands. – That is oppression.”

Amid the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has been recognized for his significant contributions and leadership in key areas such as education, health, rural development, and urban renewal. Despite the heated feud with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and the resulting political turmoil, Governor Fubara has maintained peace and decorum in his leadership approach.

The Independent Monitors on Good Governance in Nigeria (IMGGN) have praised Governor Fubara for his transparency and accountability, highlighting his dedication to sustainable growth and development in the state. At a press conference in Port Harcourt, Okwa Dan, the group’s convener, commended Fubara for his commitment to even distribution of developmental efforts across Rivers State, including the hinterlands.

Dan noted that Fubara has ensured the provision of motorable roads, primary healthcare services, and other initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the people in the state. Despite the political issues, the governor’s sound leadership and dedication to development have garnered appreciation from the residents of Rivers State.

The House of Representatives has called for sanctions against Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and six Area Council Chairmen for their insubordination and disregard for the House. Rep. Ikonne Ifeanyi of the House Committee on FCT Area Council and Ancillary raised this issue during a committee meeting in Abuja, stating that the Minister and the council chairmen’s refusal to appear before the House shows disrespect and lack of regard for the institution.

Rep. Ifeanyi criticized the Minister and the council chairmen for their arrogance and suggested that the House should not approve any requests from them until they show respect and honor the House’s invitations. He even proposed bringing the issue to the floor of the House to demand an explanation from those involved and suggested recommending Wike’s removal as FCT Minister if the situation does not improve.

Rep. Fredrick Agbedi, the chairman of the committee, expressed that the Minister and the council chairmen’s actions breach their constitutional responsibilities and undermine the committee’s oversight functions, which are crucial for ensuring accountability and good governance. Agbedi pointed out that despite receiving substantial monthly allocations, the six area council chairmen had not initiated, completed, or commissioned any significant projects.

Rep. Adesola Adebayo emphasized that the House of Representatives has the authority to oversee the activities of the council areas and that the council chairmen’s refusal to appear is an affront to the House. He suggested applying maximum pressure to ensure accountability.

The committee members discussed the need for the FCT Minister and the council chairmen to show up as requested, with some members, like Rep. Nurudeen Abbas, suggesting giving them one last chance to comply before taking further action. Rep. Sada Soli proposed breaking into a closed session to discuss the matter further.

The committee aims to ensure that the FCT Minister and the council chairmen fulfill their obligations and respect the legislative process.