The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in Ekiti State, through its Director, Engr. Simon Adeniran Adeniyi, has provided detailed explanations regarding the difficulties affecting the maintenance of federal roads across the state. According to Adeniyi, one of the biggest challenges confronting road maintenance in Ekiti State is the heavy rainfall during the rainy season, which makes it nearly impossible to carry out meaningful construction or rehabilitation work. The weather condition has slowed down several ongoing projects and limited the agency’s ability to deliver on its mandate. FERMA’s Role in Road Maintenance Engr. Adeniyi clarified that the core responsibility of FERMA is maintaining existing roads, while major reconstruction and rehabilitation works fall under the Federal Ministry of Works. This distinction, he said, often causes delays because some citizens expect FERMA to handle reconstruction, which is not within the agency’s jurisdiction. Government Commitment to Road Rehabilitation Despite the challenges, Adeniyi assured residents that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring that roads in Ekiti State are fixed and properly maintained. He emphasized that although weather conditions have slowed progress, work will resume in full force immediately after the rainy season. Several critical federal roads in Ekiti State are currently undergoing construction or rehabilitation, including: These roads are essential for transportation, trade, and connectivity, and once completed, they are expected to boost economic activities in the state. Funding Constraints and Contractor Challenges The FERMA Director further explained that another major obstacle is funding. Contractors, according to him, often face difficulties accessing funds for road projects. He clarified that FERMA operates on a performance-based system where contractors are only paid after the successful completion of assigned projects. While this ensures accountability, it has also slowed down the pace of work in some cases. Citizens Urged to Remain Patient Adeniyi appealed to citizens to remain patient, noting that the agency is fully aware of the deplorable condition of some federal roads in Ekiti State. He assured them that once the rainy season ends and funding challenges are addressed, progress will become visible across different project sites. The FERMA Director’s remarks bring relief to many Ekiti residents who have long expressed dissatisfaction with the poor state of roads. With the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment, citizens can expect improved infrastructure, better road networks, and enhanced transportation across the state in the near future.
Nigerian journalists have once again been reminded of their critical role in protecting democracy and promoting good governance through the consistent practice of ethical journalism. The call came from Dr. Mike Omeri, former Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), who urged members of the press to uphold professional standards and defend the integrity of their profession. Dr. Omeri, who spoke during a media thanksgiving service organized by the Evangelical Reformed Church of Christ (ERCC) Gloryland in Lafia, emphasized that a democratic system cannot flourish without a free, credible, and independent press. According to him, compromising media integrity through unethical practices such as “brown envelope journalism” undermines public trust, endangers national unity, and weakens the democratic process. Media Independence as a Pillar of Democracy The former NOA DG pointed out that press freedom and independence are vital pillars for building national development. He warned that when journalism is compromised by external influences or financial inducements, it threatens peace and stability within society. Omeri therefore encouraged media practitioners across Nigeria to deepen their understanding of democratic values while promoting fairness, professionalism, and freedom of expression. He also appealed to political leaders to view the press as partners in progress, rather than adversaries, highlighting that the rise of junk journalism has contributed to the harassment and intimidation of journalists within and outside Nigeria. Commendations for the Nigerian Press Adding to the discourse, the Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Dr. Danladi Jatau, commended journalists for their invaluable role in sustaining 25 years of uninterrupted democracy since Nigeria entered the Fourth Republic. In a similar vein, Mr. Ibrahim Addra, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abdullahi Sule, alongside Comrade Salihu Mohammed Alkali, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Nasarawa State—represented by Juliana Ofokwu—praised the press for its unwavering commitment to professionalism. They further pledged continued support for media initiatives that strengthen accountability and foster good governance in Nigeria. Media and Society Must Work Together In his sermon during the thanksgiving service, Dr. Nawani Aboki, Chairman and Chief Executive of Breeze FM Lafia, called on citizens to stand by journalists in delivering quality and responsible journalism. He highlighted that effective journalism cannot thrive without strong collaboration between the press and the public. Aboki also warned that unethical reporting erodes public confidence and weakens the credibility of the media. Reverend John Godiya, Associate Reverend of ERCC Gloryland, equally stressed the need for responsible journalism that unites rather than divides society. According to him, partnership between the media and citizens remains essential for fostering national progress, peace, and social cohesion. Conclusion The media remains the voice of democracy in Nigeria. Upholding journalism ethics not only safeguards press freedom but also strengthens governance, accountability, and development. As Dr. Mike Omeri and other speakers noted, responsible journalism is not just a professional obligation—it is a duty to the nation.
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The General Overseer and Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries, Apostle Johnson Suleman, has sparked online debate after clarifying his position on oral sex within marriage. According to the cleric, oral sex is not a sin when practiced between legally married couples, provided it is free from fetish or ritualistic undertones. This statement came during a recent church program, where Apostle Suleman addressed questions from members of his congregation. A video clip of his response has since gone viral across several social media platforms, drawing diverse reactions from Christians and non-Christians alike. When asked directly whether oral sex is sinful, the cleric replied with a biblical perspective: “Anything done between a husband and wife in the privacy of their home is not a sin, so long as both parties are in agreement. When Scripture speaks of the wife of your youth, it emphasizes marital intimacy. If it is not fetish, ritualistic, or diabolical, then it is not wrong.” Apostle Suleman further addressed a common objection raised by Christians, where some argue that it is improper to use the same mouth for both worship and sexual intimacy. He countered this view by saying: “Many people gossip, tell lies, and still use the same mouth to worship God. So why condemn oral sex in marriage?” While acknowledging that his position might not sit well with everyone, the cleric stood firm in his conviction: “I know many will disagree, but oral sex is not a sin.” His response continues to stir widespread conversations across the Christian community, with some applauding his openness and others expressing reservations.
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Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, Paul Adefarasin, has expressed strong views about the foundation of Nigeria, stating that he does not believe the country was created by God. During his Sunday sermon, Pastor Adefarasin emphasized that Nigeria’s formation was not the result of divine purpose but rather a product of British colonial ambitions. He explained that the geographical and political structuring of Nigeria was largely influenced by foreign powers who prioritized financial gain and empire expansion over the destiny of its people. The respected cleric openly challenged the popular notion that Nigeria was divinely ordained, stressing that historical evidence points instead to colonial negotiations and power struggles. According to Adefarasin: “Nigeria, I do not believe it was created by God. I believe that Queen Elizabeth entered into an arrangement with the Ottoman Empire concerning Sudan. Those who want more details can read the book The Martyrdom of Man. It clearly shows how two empires divided territories, assigning this land to the sons of Ishmael. This is not merely political; it’s a historical reality.” He went on to explain that while this discussion is not primarily political, it is essential for the church to acknowledge its role in correcting what human systems and colonial manipulations distorted. Pastor Adefarasin stressed that the church is the light of the world and the salt of the earth, with a responsibility to influence society positively. Furthermore, the preacher declared that Nigeria’s constitution lacks legitimacy. He argued that it was written and imposed by military rulers rather than developed through the genuine will and participation of the people. Citing Psalm 11:3, Adefarasin compared Nigeria to a house built on shaky foundations, stressing that any nation without a solid base cannot stand firmly. He further criticised the deep-seated corruption and inefficiency within the Nigerian leadership system. According to him, the state of poor road construction across the nation is not just an infrastructure problem but also a reflection of a broken system and failed leadership structure. Adefarasin’s message resonated strongly with many Nigerians who often question the authenticity of the country’s foundation and the failures that continue to affect its governance. His bold statement has sparked widespread debate about the historical and political roots of Nigeria’s creation and its current struggles.
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Affiliate marketing works in Nigeria if you treat it like a real business: pick a clear niche, learn basic SEO, recommend products you trust, and partner with networks that actually pay Nigerians. This guide shows you exactly how to start, what to promote, how to get traffic, and how to receive your earnings locally. What Is Affiliate Marketing (and Why It Works Here) Affiliate marketing is a simple model: you recommend a product or service, your audience buys through your unique link, and you earn a commission. You don’t handle inventory or customer support—the brand does. Why it’s worth your time in Nigeria right now: How Affiliate Marketing Pays You When someone clicks your link and buys within the tracking window (the “cookie duration”), you earn a commission. Networks provide dashboards to track clicks, sales, and payouts. Reliable ways Nigerians get paid from affiliate networks include receiving accounts and payment requests (via providers like Payoneer), which let you receive global payments and withdraw locally. payoneer.custhelp.comPayoneer Tip: If you run a registered business, integrations from providers expanding in Nigeria can make cross-border receipts smoother. Payoneer Step 1: Choose a Narrow, Profitable Niche (Nigeria-Relevant Examples) Pick an area where products are easy to recommend and buyers are actively searching. Aim for a clear audience + clear problem + clear product match. Examples that work in Nigeria: Validate demand with Google Trends to see what’s rising, and plan content around seasonal spikes (e.g., “back to school laptop deals,” “Detty December travel accessories”). Google TrendsGoogle Trends Step 2: Pick Networks and Programs That Accept (and Pay) Nigerians Mix local marketplaces with global software/SaaS programs for diversified earnings. Local marketplaces Global affiliate networks Reality check: Some directories list cookie windows or rates that change. Always confirm current terms inside the actual program dashboard before creating content. Post Affiliate Pro Step 3: Build a Simple, Fast, AMP-Friendly Website You don’t need a complex site to begin. What you do need: Step 4: Create Content That Actually Converts People buy from content that’s useful, unbiased, and specific. Here’s a repeatable mix: Use Trends data to plan content calendars around search interest, and update winning posts quarterly to keep rankings. Google Trends Step 5: Bring Traffic (Without Paying for Ads Initially) Organic search (SEO): Social + communities: Trust accelerators: Step 6: How Nigerians Receive Earnings Smoothly Most international networks pay via bank transfer or approved payment partners. Payoneer supports receiving accounts in multiple currencies and payment requests you can send to brands—then withdraw to your Nigerian bank. Set this up early to avoid payouts bouncing later. payoneer.custhelp.comPayoneer Tools You Actually Need (Starter Stack) Realistic Timeline (Your First 90 Days) Days 1–7Pick niche, secure domain/hosting, install theme and Rank Math, create About + Start Here + Contact + Disclosure. Days 8–30Publish 6 cornerstone posts (2 comparisons, 2 best-of, 2 how-to). Submit sitemap, set up GA4 and Search Console. Days 31–60Join networks, add affiliate links to existing content, start weekly deal posts, launch email or WhatsApp list. Days 61–90Refresh top posts, build 2 deep product reviews, add internal links, pitch one brand for a custom coupon or flat fee feature. Common Mistakes to Avoid FAQs Can beginners start without a website?Yes—with social content and a WhatsApp/Email list—but a simple site compounds results through search and gives you control. Do affiliate links work on WhatsApp?Yes. Share short links to valuable posts or direct product pages. Always disclose affiliation. What does “cookie duration” mean?It’s how long a purchase is credited to you after the first click (e.g., 30–45 days). Always confirm the current terms inside the program you join. Post Affiliate Pro The Bottom Line Affiliate marketing in Nigeria is not a lottery. It’s consistent publishing, honest recommendations, and smart program selection. Start small, focus on one niche, and build momentum with content that genuinely helps people buy better.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light (1 Peter 2:9). As Christians, we live the life of victory in Christ Jesus. This isn’t something we strive for; it’s our heritage. We’re kings and priests, ordained to reign in life. However, not all have come to this understanding. You must train yourself to think, talk, and function with the mindset of a reigning king-priest because that’s who you truly are. You have the dominion. Kings reign. They don’t beg. They exercise authority. This should be your consciousness every day. Don’t struggle to be successful or to prosper; you’ve been made a joint-heir with Christ. Everything you do should reflect kingly glory and excellence. Read our opening scripture in the Amplified Classic; embrace it and walk accordingly. It says, “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” Sadly, some live far below their calling because they haven’t renewed their minds to this truth. They speak the language of failure and act like mere men, not realizing they are royalty. Carry yourself with dignity, authority, and dominion. Walk with confidence because you know your words carry power. Ecclesiastes 8:4 says, “Where the word of a king is, there is power….” Romans 5:17, AMPC says, “…those who receive [God’s] overflowing grace (unmerited favor) and the free gift of righteousness [putting them into right standing with Himself] reign as kings in life through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).” If this hasn’t been your mindset, change it today. Declare, “I am a king-priest in Christ! I walk in dominion, I reign in life, and I display the virtues of my heavenly Father!” This is your heritage. This is your life in Christ. PRAYER*Dear Father, thank you for calling me into a life of victory, excellence and dominion. I am a king-priest, called to reign in life and display your perfections. My words carry power, and I walk in the consciousness of my divine authority. Thank you for this glorious life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYRevelation 1:6 KJVAnd hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. Revelation 5:10 KJVAnd hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. 1 Peter 2:9 AMPCBut you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Job 22:28 KJVThou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading Plan1 Corinthians 10:1-13 & Psalms 135-138 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 18:35-43 & 1 Samuel 13 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am a citizen of heaven, living by heavenly principles. I live in the Christ environment where life is totally different; everything is glorious. I have absolute mastery over circumstances and over the elements of this world. There’s no failure, weakness, defeat, sickness, disease, poverty, or any of the negativities of life in me. Christ is my all; I’m complete in Him who is the head of all principality and power; there’s no shortage in my life. I’m full of ideas, inspiration, with wealth, prosperity and all the blessings of the Kingdom; and out of that abundance, I impact my world. I’ve been created for good works and predestinated for the good life; there is nothing wrong in my body. I’ve got everything I require for an excellent life. In Christ, I have received the life of glory, honor, and excellence; a life where there’s no form of death, sickness, disease, or infirmity. As the Father has life in Himself, so has He given the Son to have life in Himself. I have the Son; therefore, I have life! I have eternal life! My body only expresses God’s glory and beauty. My body is God’s temple, and I am its steward. Today, I am living the life of victory and dominion that Jesus purchased for me through His vicarious death, burial, and resurrection. God’s Word is truth and everything He said about my health and life is reality. The Word of God produces health, strength, vitality, and all the blessings and provisions that it talks about. I’m living in health 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; no weapon formed or fashioned against me shall prosper. My body is invigorated by the Spirit of God who lives in me. Nothing in me or about me dies or succumbs to the corrupting influences of this world. I rule over all the forces of darkness as I manifest the glory of God everywhere I go. I’m eternally victorious in Christ. I have power over crises; I’m prospering exceedingly, manifesting the righteousness and dominion of Christ everywhere. I live above, and far beyond the distracting elements of this world, because I live in Christ! My life is the testimony of God’s grace. I have been brought into a place of wealth untold in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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On Ukraine’s Independence Day, President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed his call for a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that such dialogue remains the “most effective step forward” in the search for peace. His statement came as global diplomatic initiatives to end the ongoing conflict appear to be losing momentum. Despite the celebratory atmosphere marking Ukraine’s freedom since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, Zelensky stressed that the country’s fight for sovereignty continues. He reiterated that while Ukraine is determined to achieve peace, its repeated appeals have not yet been answered. A Call for Leadership Talks The Ukrainian leader highlighted the necessity of direct talks between Kyiv and Moscow, insisting that “the format of talks between leaders is the most effective way forward.” Zelensky explained that Ukraine needs a just peace, one where “its destiny is determined only by its citizens.” Declaring that “Ukraine is not a victim, it is a fighter,” Zelensky told the crowd that although victory has not yet been secured, defeat is also far from reality. “Ukraine has not yet won, but it has certainly not lost,” he stated. Western Reactions and Criticism The push for renewed talks came shortly after former US President Donald Trump attempted to revive discussions of a possible summit between Ukraine and Russia. However, Russia dismissed the idea of an immediate meeting, dimming hopes of progress. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Western nations of obstructing meaningful negotiations, claiming they were looking for excuses to block peace efforts. He also criticized Zelensky’s insistence on an urgent meeting with Putin, describing it as “demanding at all costs.” Ukraine’s Independence Day Message Speaking at the symbolic event, attended by US envoy Keith Kellogg, Zelensky underlined the resilience of his country. “This is how Ukraine strikes when its calls for peace are ignored,” he said. He pointed out that while the war remains unresolved, both Europe and the United States recognize that Ukraine will not lose. “Ukraine has secured its independence. Ukraine is not a victim; it is a fighter,” Zelensky declared, reinforcing the country’s resolve to resist aggression and uphold sovereignty. Security Guarantees and International Support Zelensky emphasized that international security guarantees will be crucial once the war comes to an end. He noted that the presence of foreign troops would help ensure Ukraine’s stability and prevent renewed threats from Moscow. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who joined celebrations in Kyiv, affirmed strong global support for Ukraine’s independence. He stressed that “it is not Russia’s decision how the sovereignty, independence, and liberty of Ukraine will be guaranteed.” Messages from Global Leaders In his Independence Day address, Zelensky also expressed gratitude to world leaders who sent messages of solidarity. Among them were former US President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, French President Emmanuel Macron, Britain’s King Charles, and Pope Leo. Their messages, according to Zelensky, serve as reminders that Ukraine’s struggle is recognized worldwide and that its fight for sovereignty resonates far beyond its borders.
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Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has highlighted two critical areas his former club must urgently fix following their disappointing 1-1 draw with Fulham in the English Premier League. Speaking after the game on Sunday, the ex-England international insisted that United’s ongoing struggles in attack and between the posts remain their biggest obstacles to competing at the highest level. “I love Mbeumo, I love Cunha. Bruno had a poor game today, but my biggest concern is that the goalkeeper situation has not been resolved, and the striker position is still not addressed,” Hargreaves told Premier League Productions. The former midfielder, who was part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s title-winning side, emphasized that no team can realistically challenge for trophies without elite players in those two crucial positions. “I’ve never seen a team win anything significant without top players in goal and up front. Maybe the club will sort it out in the next week,” he added. Hargreaves also assessed United’s upcoming fixtures, noting that while their home clash against Burnley should be winnable, tougher games against Manchester City and Chelsea loom ahead. So far this season, Manchester United have failed to register a win in their opening two Premier League matches—falling to Arsenal in their opener before being held to a frustrating draw by Fulham. This shaky start has raised fresh questions about Erik ten Hag’s squad depth, tactical choices, and the urgent need for reinforcements.
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Napoli appear to be on the cusp of finalizing an agreement to bring Rasmus Højlund to the club. A pivotal factor in this potential move is Scott McTominay, who reportedly phoned the Manchester United striker over the weekend, aiming to persuade him to join the reigning Serie A champions. These conversations, according to reports, may serve as a critical catalyst in convincing Højlund to make the switch. Rasmus Højlund finds himself surplus to requirements under United manager Rúben Amorim this season, particularly after the club secured Benjamin Sesko as their primary striker. As a result, Højlund has yet to feature in the Premier League, making a summer departure increasingly likely. This summer, both Napoli and AC Milan have emerged as suitors for the Danish forward. However, sources suggest that Napoli are ‘edging ever closer’ to clinching the deal, with McTominay’s call possibly being the turning point towards a confirmed “yes.” Interestingly, Højlund is already familiar with life in Italy, having previously played in Serie A during his stint at Atalanta—a factor that could ease his transition back to Italian football.
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Gary Neville, former Manchester United skipper, believes manager Rúben Amorim appears to have lost confidence in Kobbie Mainoo. Neville argues that the England midfielder finds himself languishing in fourth place within Amorim’s midfield hierarchy at Old Trafford. Despite wearing the number of a promising Rising Star, Mainoo has remained unused in both of United’s opening Premier League matches this season. In the Fulham game, he was omitted in favor of Mason Mount, Casemiro, and Bruno Fernandes, and even when substitutions came, the coach opted for Manuel Ugarte instead of him. Neville told the Sky Sports podcast: “I would have thought Kobbie Mainoo might stake a claim in central midfield. But his continued absence strongly suggests that Amorim has moved on. He still starts with Fernandes and Casemiro, then Mason Mount gets brought in, and Manuel Ugarte appears before Mainoo. That essentially puts him fourth in line.”This situation, Neville warns, underscores the urgency: Manchester United must reinforce their central midfield before the summer window slams shut. (All original meaning preserved; length extended with deeper context and Neville’s comments rephrased for clarity.)
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Manchester United’s summer acquisition, Matheus Cunha, has revealed details of a heartwarming conversation he had with two of Brazil’s most iconic football legends, Ronaldinho and Ronaldo Nazário, before sealing his high-profile move to Old Trafford. The Brazilian forward, who secured his transfer from Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this summer under the management of Ruben Amorim, disclosed that both Ronaldinho and Ronaldo gave him strong encouragement and expressed admiration for Manchester United as a club. According to Cunha, their words gave him even greater confidence that moving to the Red Devils was the right decision at this stage of his career. Speaking in an interview with Sky Sports, Cunha recalled the exact moment Ronaldinho reacted to his news: “Ronaldinho just said, ‘Wow.’ He told me, ‘It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world. You deserve it. Honestly, if you have the opportunity, you have to take it. It’s an unbelievable club.’” Cunha then revealed what Ronaldo Nazário – widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history – told him about life at Manchester United: “And Ronaldo spoke about the atmosphere at Old Trafford, about the fans and the history. He explained the feeling you get when you step into the stadium. For me, it already felt like a perfect movie, but when they said it, I felt like the decision was already confirmed.” Since his arrival at United, Cunha has already featured in two Premier League matches, coming up against Arsenal and Fulham, as he begins to adapt to the demands of English football at the highest level. The Brazilian international is determined to make his mark, with advice from his country’s legendary figures still fresh in his mind as he embraces this new chapter at Manchester United.
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The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State branch, has warned that it may embark on a solidarity strike in support of the Medical Guild, following unresolved disputes over salary deductions and unpaid wages. According to the NMA, the Lagos State Government implemented controversial salary deductions in July 2025, leaving many doctors without full pay. The association is demanding the immediate refund of the deducted wages and the complete payment of August salaries no later than August 25, 2025. This resolution was passed during an Emergency General Meeting (EGM), where members critically reviewed the Medical Guild’s 21-day ultimatum issued to the Lagos State Government. Long-Standing Issues Resurface Beyond the immediate crisis, doctors highlighted unresolved welfare concerns that have persisted for years. These include: The association emphasized that doctors are entitled to their rightful wages, regardless of when arrears were accumulated. In a communiqué signed by Dr. Saheed Kehinde, Chairman of NMA Lagos, the body warned that it would commence its strike two weeks after the Medical Guild begins its own industrial action, should the government fail to resolve the crisis. Salary Deduction Timeline The controversy surrounding salary cuts has been ongoing since April 23, 2025, when the Lagos State Government first introduced deductions. Following widespread protests, the policy was briefly reversed. However, on July 23, 2025, the deductions resurfaced, prompting the Medical Guild to embark on a three-day warning strike between July 28 and 30, 2025. Despite the action, salaries were not refunded, pushing the Guild to issue a firm ultimatum that expires on August 25, 2025. Welfare Concerns at LUTH Another key point of contention is the lack of call duty meals for doctors at LUTH, which has persisted for more than five years. At a February 2025 meeting with Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, Chief Medical Director of LUTH, hospital management suggested introducing a paid canteen system instead of reinstating free call duty meals. The NMA rejected this proposal outright, insisting that meals must be provided free of charge for doctors on duty, as is the standard in other federal institutions. On skipping arrears, the NMA noted that while several teaching hospitals across Nigeria had already settled these payments, LUTH doctors remain excluded. The association declared it will continue to push until these entitlements are fulfilled. Call for Government Intervention In its communiqué, the NMA called on the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, to collaborate with relevant ministries and agencies to: The association described the deductions as “obnoxious and crisis-prone,” stressing that failure to act would worsen the already fragile health system in Lagos State.
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The Lagos State Government has placed a temporary suspension on the ongoing rehabilitation of the Ogudu–Ifako Bridge located in Kosofe Local Government Area. This decision follows growing concerns from the public about prolonged traffic congestion and a noticeable spike in robbery incidents along the affected route leading to the Third Mainland Bridge. Suspension of Phase Two Repair Works The second stage of the maintenance project officially commenced on August 19, 2025, with plans to continue until October 1, 2025. The primary objective of this phase was the refurbishment of the bridge’s expansion joints — a crucial component for structural safety. Unfortunately, since the commencement of the repairs, traffic along the corridor has become almost unbearable. Many motorists have been trapped in gridlock for extended periods, creating an unsafe environment that emboldens criminal elements. From Minutes to Hours — The Traffic Nightmare Journeys that would ordinarily be completed within 15 minutes are now dragging for up to six hours. Frustrated commuters are not only delayed but are also exposed to traffic-related crime, especially during peak hours. Several motorists have reported being attacked by armed hoodlums who take advantage of the standstill to rob unsuspecting victims. These attacks have become more frequent and more violent in recent days. A Firsthand Account From a Victim One such incident was narrated by respected media professional and legal practitioner, Richard Akinnola. He shared his ordeal via his verified account on X (formerly Twitter), where he revealed that he was robbed in broad daylight near the 7Up/Old Toll Gate section in Ketu while trapped in traffic. According to his post: “Calling on RRS, Lagos. Two days ago, the repair work on Ogudu road from 7Up commenced.This has led to serious traffic along that corridor. I was in the traffic about noon when I was robbed by hoodlums who took advantage of the severe traffic. They were in the process of breaking my car windows when armed idiots dispossessed me of every cash on me.” Akinnola expressed deep concern over the lack of police presence in the area and called on the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS) to urgently deploy officers to safeguard road users from further harm. RRS Responds With Additional Security Deployment Reacting to the complaints, a senior officer of the Rapid Response Squad, who spoke under anonymity, confirmed that the Commander of the RRS has already mobilized armed officers to monitor and secure specific danger-prone spots along the Ogudu–Ifako axis. “The RRS Commander has drafted armed men to strategic locations along Ogudu–Ifako where the rehabilitation is ongoing to protect motorists,” the official confirmed. This development comes as part of broader measures to restore order and ensure the safety of residents and commuters throughout the duration of the project. Transport Ministry Issues Clarification and Appeal Prior to the recent developments, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, had earlier cautioned that the bridge repairs would be executed in stages. He advised residents to prepare for diversions and to comply with traffic instructions. Following the public backlash, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Mr Olawale Musa, officially confirmed the suspension of the repair work. He explained that the temporary halt is intended to review and improve the current traffic management strategy, while also addressing growing safety concerns. “The project was paused to review the traffic management plans. Work will resume within the week after consultations with the contractor and stakeholders,” Musa said. He further appealed to residents for calm, urging them to cooperate with traffic officers and to use alternate routes where necessary. Musa emphasized that the long-term benefit of the project outweighs the temporary discomfort and assured the public that the government is working to expedite the completion process. Emergency Support Services in Place To further cushion the effects of the gridlock, Musa disclosed that ambulances have been stationed along the affected road corridor. These emergency response units are on standby to respond swiftly to any medical emergencies that might arise during the ongoing disruption. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to both safety and infrastructure development, promising that stakeholders will continue to be carried along as efforts are made to complete the rehabilitation with minimal hardship to the public.
