Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Federal Government, through the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has supported farmers in Oyo State with training and empowerment on cassava cultivation and processing.

The two-day training, held at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food security state office, Moor Plantation, Ibadan. Participants, were trained on series of approach to getting good yield, ranging from fertiliser application, soil testing among others.

Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the training session, Director, Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Services in the ministry, Mr Ayodele Olawunmi, who was represented by a Principal Agric Officer, Mrs Temitope Banjo, said the aim and objectives of the training were working towards food security and sustainable agriculture as well as the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

‘The empowerment programme is to upgrade farmers’ knowledge about cassava production and processing in Oyo State. Oyo State is one of the prominent cassava producers in the country, so it is very important to come to Oyo State when we talk of Cassava because the state contribute a lot to cassava production in Nigeria.

‘And the whole process is exposing them more to the necessary skills in processing and to reduce usage of chemicals in the processing of cassava. Some people process their cassava, especially when they want to use it to make fufu with detergent and some other chemicals.

‘This training is meant to tell them that they must not add chemicals to cassava when processing it because it is very dangerous to human health. What we are promoting is food security with nutrition, it is not food security with damaging of our health. Nutrition is one of the important aspects of food security, so the two have to go together.’

The Oyo State Coordinator, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food security, Mr Adetunji Samson, represented on the occasion by Chief Agric Supritendent, Mr Adefesobi Oluwatoyin, called on participants at the training to make good use of all that they have learnt during the course of the training and extend same to their fellow farmers who could not attend the programme.

At the end of the training, each of the farmers was given a knapsack sprayer in order to boost their farm work.

Mr. Olufemi Oyedele, is a built environment professional and affordable housing advocate. In this interview with DAYO AYEYEMI, the astute estate surveyor and valuer, took a critical look at the Nigeria ‘s housing sector since independence, itemized some of the challenges, and suggested way out of the wood.

What is your assessment as Nigeria clocks 65 years of nationhood?

Yes, Nigeria’s 65th Independent Anniversary is here again and in a twinkle of an eye, the 66th anniversary will be here.

The housing sector in my own assessment has performed abysmally low in the last 65 years. Though we have adequate resources to achieve ‘adequate housing’, we lack ‘the will’ and the institutional and organisational capacity to be self-sufficient in housing. The government has refused to adequately organise the people to be able to house themselves and adequate housing remains a mirage despite our 65 years of independence. In many quarters, the question arose that would it not have been a better story in our housing strides if the colonial masters were still in charge? There are a lot of things we can do better to change our housing narratives. The housing sector is still unorganised, underfunded, corruption-ladden, unprofessional, under-productive and lacking direction.

Nigerians have not been properly housed. About 60 per cent of Nigerians live in slums! These are self-help abode that people manage to remain hopeful. They manage this squalid settlements and inadequate quality houses with the hope that tomorrow will be better. Some of them have lost hope in a better future due to their past experiences despite the fact that the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Chapter 4 claims that housing is a right of all citizens.

What are major achievements?

The major achievements in the housing sector and notable challenges in recent time are the Renewed Hope Housing Programme which ‘aim is to address the nation’s housing deficit by providing affordable, decent and dignified accommodation for citizens, particularly low-income and vulnerable groups.’ If the government can achieve this aim, it will go a long way to ameliorate the housing sufferings of the people. The building materials hubs planned to be located in the six geographical zones of Nigeria and in which one is already set for the Lekki Free Trade Zone is also laudable achievement.

What are the challenges?

Notable challenges in our housing sector include the incessant building collapses which seems to be reducing the housing stock and the credibility of our builders; the demolition of buildings which is an economic waste among a people that is lacking; high cost of building materials, which is majorly due to over-dependence on the traditional method of construction and low level of titling which creates dead capital in the untitled lands.

The government of the day is not living up to expectations in the housing sector considering the huge housing deficit which experts claim is now in the region of 28 million. There are things the government (federal, state and local) can do separately to achieve housing adequacy.

What are the solutions?

The solutions to the challenges in the housing sector include first, evolving a housing culture for Nigeria though a formal forum. Housing cannot continue to be delivered haphazardly as it is currently being done. Secondly, we need an organ of the Federal Government that will be in charge of coordinating the housing efforts of the three tiers of government in Nigeria. There is a wide disparity between the prices of building materials and what the customers are willing to pay. Thirdly, there must be intensified efforts of governments to provide social housing for the poor and vulnerable in the society. This class of people cannot adequately house themselves.

Renowned Nigerian journalist, Dr Reuben Abati, is set to present three new books exploring politics, society, and personal reflections.

The public presentation and official launch, organised by Caltop Publications Nigeria Limited, will take place on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos.

The books to be unveiled are Portraits: People, Politics and Society, A Love Letter and Other Stories, and How Goodluck Jonathan Became President.

Speaking on the publication, Ayo Arowosegbe, Managing Director of Caltop Publications, described the books as compelling and insightful.

‘Compelling, insightful, and relevant for our times. These works will serve as vital references for policymakers, media professionals, academics, students, and the public seeking informed perspectives on Nigeria and the world at large.’

The event is expected to attract dignitaries from government, academia, the private sector, the media, and the literary community in celebration of Dr Abati’s remarkable contributions to journalism, literature, and civic engagement.

Coinciding with his 60th birthday, the occasion will also provide an opportunity to reflect on the life and career of a media icon who has remained steadfast in his commitment to national development.

Dr Reuben Abati, a distinguished journalist, columnist, and writer, previously served as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR, and was Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Guardian Newspapers.

Elevators are small, shared spaces we often find ourselves in. They save us time, but also come with unspoken rules that make the ride smooth for everyone. These simple habits show respect for others and create order in an enclosed space.

Whether you’re going to the office or staying in a hotel, you should learn proper elevator etiquette rules to make the ride less tense or uncomfortable.

Here are seven of these rules you should know.

1. Wait before entering

One of the most important elevator etiquette rules is waiting for people to step out before you go in. You could cause confusion and physical clashes if you rush in while others are trying to exit.

What should you do instead? Stand by the door while giving space, of course and enter when your path is clear.

2. Stand away from the door

After entering the elevator, avoid standing in the way. You could either move to the back or to the side so that others can easily come in.

If you stand directly at the entrance, it could make the ride an uneasy one for you and those who are trying to enter.

3. Respect personal space

So, you know that elevators are often tight, right? Well, respecting personal boundaries is still possible in such a tight space.

If the elevator is less crowded, you should avoid standing too close to someone. If it’s full, stand properly without leaning on or pushing others

Respecting personal space is one of the simplest elevator etiquette rules that makes everyone more comfortable.

4. Reduce noise

Avoid loud conversations, phone calls, or laughter in the elevator because it’s a confined space and sound can feel amplified.

If you can’t avoid conversations, keep your voice low. That way, people don’t get to listen to private conversations, and everyone can maintain a peaceful environment during the brief ride.

5. Tame your belongings

A large hand luggage can take up more space than necessary. If you’re carrying a heavy bag, hold it close to your body or place it on the floor beside you.

This elevator etiquette rule is important because it prevents accidents and ensures that other people have enough room to stand.

6. Use buttons considerably

While pressing the elevator buttons, do it considerately. Don’t joke around by pressing multiple floors as a joke. If someone asks you to help them with the floor they are going to, you can help them with the button if you’re close.

7. Be proactive yet calm

When you reach your floor, step out quickly so that others can continue their journey. Don’t wait around to finish a conversation or look for directions.

If it’s not your turn to leave and you’re close to the door, step out briefly for others to leave and enter again if necessary.

This elevator etiquette rule is very practical.

Next time you enter an elevator, remember that these simple habits can help you turn a ride in a tight space into a smoother and better experience.

The Nigerian equities market ended Tuesday’s session on a cautious note as profit-taking in banking and oil and gas stocks offset gains in the industrial and insurance sectors, leaving the overall market performance largely unchanged.

The NGX All-Share Index slipped marginally by 0.004 percent to close at 147,710.96 basis points, while market capitalization shed N3.99 billion naira to settle at N93.76 trillion.

The month-to-date and year-to-date returns stood at 3.05 percent and 43.05 percent, respectively, reflecting sustained investor optimism despite intermittent pullbacks.

Market sentiment remained negative, as 35 stocks declined compared to 23 gainers, translating to a market breadth of 0.7×.

Austin Laz which fell by 7.9 percent and Deap Capital which dropped 6.,7 percent led the losers’ chart, while Regal Insurance and Prestige Assurance topped the gainers’ list.

Sectoral performance mirrored the cautious mood, with three of the five major indices closing positive.

The Insurance index led gainers with a 1.01percent rise, driven by renewed interest in Regal Insurance which gained 8.8 percent and Prestige Assurance which appreciated by 6.7 percent. The Industrial Goods and Consumer Goods indices also advanced by 0.30 percent and 0.10 percent respectively, buoyed by gains in BUA Cement which rose by 0.06 percent and International Breweries which climbed 3.6 percent.

On the flip side, the Banking sector dipped by 0.37 percent as selloffs in United Bank for Africa which lost 1.2 percent dragged the index lower, while the Oil and Gas sector weakened by 0.09. The Commodity index closed flat.

Market activity showed a mixed pattern as total traded volume fell by 20.73 percent to 495.10 million units, while the total number of deals declined by 18.75 percent to 25,645. However, transaction value rose sharply by 28.71 percent to N17.34 billion, indicating a shift toward high-value trades.

Fidelity Bank emerged as the most traded stock by volume with 50.90 million shares, while MTN Nigeria dominated in value terms with N2.46 billion naira worth of transactions.

It is noted that the market’s sideways movement reflects cautious trading ahead of upcoming third-quarter earnings releases. Analysts, however, expect bargain-hunting in fundamentally sound stocks to support a mild rebound in subsequent sessions.

A coalition of civil society organisations under the aegis of the Niger Delta Advancement Forum (NDAF) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, for driving ‘the most transparent and impactful community development effort in the history of Nigeria’s oil industry’.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its president, Comrade Ebiowei Timipre, the group said the successful execution of 536 community projects across oil-bearing states through the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) marks ‘a turning point in the long struggle for equity, justice, and inclusion in the Niger Delta’.

Timipre said President Tinubu’s administration had shown ‘unprecedented political will’ by empowering the NUPRC to enforce the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which had long remained dormant under previous governments.

‘For decades, host communities were left with unfulfilled promises and abandoned projects, but under President Tinubu, the story has changed. Through the visionary leadership of Engr. Komolafe at NUPRC, we are finally seeing the oil wealth of the Niger Delta being channelled into schools, hospitals, roads, and livelihoods for our people,’ he said.

The group noted that the Commission, acting under Tinubu’s directive to prioritise local development, has ensured that all projects are executed transparently and simultaneously across multiple states, creating a model of inclusive progress.

Citing verified records from the Commission, NDAF revealed that as of October 13, 2025, the Host Community Development Trust Fund had risen to ?373 billion contributed by oil companies operating under the PIA. It described the figures as ‘a historic leap in fiscal accountability’ and a clear sign that the President’s reforms are working.

‘President Tinubu’s insistence on reform-driven governance has given the PIA a new life. And under Komolafe’s watch, the NUPRC has become a model of how regulation should work – firm, transparent, and community-centred,’ Timipre said.

He noted that the Commission’s HostComply digital dashboard, which monitors all deposits and disbursements to host community funds, had eliminated the opacity that once plagued oil industry interventions.

The group particularly praised the transformation recorded in Rivers State, where NUPRC recently facilitated the delivery of more than ten projects and flagged off another ten under the Obagi HCDT operated by TotalEnergies. These include hospitals, roads, and education facilities that directly benefit rural dwellers.

Timipre described the results as ‘proof that Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is producing measurable outcomes in the oil region,’ adding that ‘the synergy between the presidency and NUPRC has given new meaning to resource justice’.

He urged oil companies to remain faithful to the three per cent operating expenditure contribution required under the PIA, assuring them that the current administration had restored trust in the system.

‘For once, the Niger Delta is seeing the dividends of oil. What past governments could not achieve in decades is now being delivered under President Tinubu’s watch. We’re grateful to the President and the Niger Delta shall return the Favour in 2027,’ Timipre declared.

The federal government through its Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone unit has engaged in Ekiti State over the proposed creation of agriculture transformation centres in the state.

The centres, which will be created in two communities of Orin-Ekiti, Ido-Osi Local Government Area and Eporo in Emure LGA , is aimed at boosting agricultural production and generating employment opportunities in line with the renewed hope agenda of the government and shared property agenda of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

The project is being financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Speaking during separate engagements with stakeholders in the two communities on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), the commissioner for agriculture and food security, Ebenezer Boluwade, commended the federal government for selecting and designating the state for the project.

The commissioner, who was represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Special Agro Processing Zone, Kehinde Ajayi, noted that the centres would be crucial in enhancing food production, promoting value addition, attracting private investment and creating jobs across the agricultural value chain in the state.

He appealed to stakeholders and residents of the communities to support the initiative of the government towards ensuring food security and socio-economic development of the state through agriculture.

‘The Environmental Impact Assessment process underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development and ensuring that the projects are environmentally responsible and beneficial to the host communities.

‘It is a project will attract several millions of dollars and will bring value addition to what we are doing in the agriculture sector,’ he said.

The State Project coordinator, Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, Olaniyi Ijadare, said the engagement was necessary to expose the benefitting communities to the impacts of the project on the environment and making it environmentally sustainable.

Ijadare said: ‘This engagement is necessary as specified by the bank so that the people know what to expect and likely impacts on the environment.’

The Olorin of Orin-Ekiti, Oba Olufemi Ajibewa and the Elemure of Emure-Ekiti, Oba Babatunde Ajiboye, commended the agriculture initiative, promising that their communities would ensure the success of the project in the overall development of the area and the state.

Representatives of the All Farmers Association in the two LGAs said the projects would serve as a turning point for the state’s agricultural potential which would in turn enhance food sufficiency and economic development.

Stakeholders in the education sector have called on universities across the country to urgently adopt smart learning technologies as a strategic solution to bridging access gaps, improving teaching quality, and driving sustainable national economic growth.

The call was made during the matriculation ceremony of the West Midlands Open University, held on Saturday at the institution’s campus in Ikeja, Lagos.

Delivering the keynote address, Nigeria’s first female Professor of Computer Science, Professor Adenike Osofisan, said the adoption of smart learning tools such as Artificial Intelligence and other digital technologies was no longer optional but a necessity for the transformation of the country’s higher education system.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Smart Learning for National Economic Sustainability: The Role of Open University in Nigeria’s Educational Transformation,’ Prof. Osofisan emphasised that smart learning provides personalised and flexible education that goes beyond the outdated ‘one-size-fits-all’ method of teaching.

‘Smart learning empowers students to learn at their own pace while enabling lecturers to tailor lessons to individual needs. It fosters deeper understanding, digital literacy, and adaptability – key qualities needed for productivity in today’s technology-driven economy,’ she said.

The former director of the University of Ibadan School of Business decried the limited admission capacity of conventional universities, revealing that over 50 per cent of qualified Nigerian youths are denied access to tertiary education each year.

She noted that open universities, through smart learning, are well-positioned to close that gap and promote inclusive education for all Nigerians regardless of age, location, or financial background.

According to her, the open university system is designed to expand access and promote lifelong learning. By embracing smart learning technologies, these institutions can offer high-quality education without the physical and financial limitations that traditional universities face.

She further advised open universities to take the lead in Nigeria’s digital education transformation by investing in modern infrastructure, upskilling academic staff in digital teaching methods, and lobbying for policies that support technology-based learning.

She, however, warned that the challenges of poor internet connectivity, inadequate funding, and resistance to change could hinder the effective adoption of smart learning if not urgently addressed.

‘The National Universities Commission must ensure all lecturers are trained and competent in the use of ICT for teaching. Technology has made global classrooms a reality, and Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind,’ Osofisan added.

She urged students to take their studies seriously, equip themselves with digital skills, and shun shortcuts to success, recalling her own academic journey to the United States for postgraduate studies.

‘When I travelled to the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1979 for my Master’s degree in Computer Science, I did not go there to drive taxis or wash dishes. I was fully prepared, and the training I received from Obafemi Awolowo University gave me the foundation to succeed,’ she said.

In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor of West Midlands Open University, Prof. Olumide Longe, said the institution was established to expand access to quality and affordable higher education using open and distance learning models.

He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing graduates who are well-equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.

‘Smart learning and digital platforms are not just tools; they are now essential for modern education. Our students must be prepared to thrive in a knowledge-based, technology-driven global economy,’ he said.

Former Minister of Industry and second female President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Onikepo Akande, commended the management and staff of the university for promoting access and opportunity through education.

She described the university as a beacon of hope, stating that distance or circumstance should never be barriers to learning.

‘This vision is what builds nations and secures the future of generations to come,’ Akande said.

She urged students to strive for excellence and serve humanity with the knowledge they acquire.

Also speaking at the event, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, represented by Oluwakemi Awosanya, Assistant Director at JAMB’s Lagos office, advised the students to be worthy ambassadors of the university and use their education to contribute to national development.

Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees, Bayo Oyero, encouraged the matriculating students to take their academic journey seriously, noting that open and distance learning institutions provide flexibility without compromising academic standards.

‘You are receiving the same quality of education obtainable in traditional universities. Make the most of this opportunity and build relationships that will serve you and the country in the future,’ he said.

The matriculation ceremony was attended by educationists, government officials, industry leaders, and parents, all echoing the need for Nigerian universities to embrace innovation in education and position students for success in the digital age.

Fires are a recurring menace in Lagos and Nigeria, causing loss of life, property damage, and economic hardship. The complexity of urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of awareness about fire safety contribute to the prevalence of fires in this region and the African continent as a whole. This article proposes a comprehensive approach to curb fires in Lagos and Nigeria through corrective fire and life safety procedures.

Understanding the Fire Risk Landscape in Lagos and Nigeria

Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, is a densely populated city with a high concentration of commercial and residential buildings. The city’s infrastructure is often inadequate, and fire safety measures are frequently overlooked or poorly implemented. The situation is further exacerbated by:

Inadequate building codes and enforcement: Many buildings in Lagos and Nigeria do not meet fire safety standards, and enforcement of existing regulations is often lax.

Poor electrical infrastructure: Overloaded electrical systems, exposed wiring, and poor maintenance contribute to electrical fires.

Inadequate firefighting services: Fire departments in Lagos and Nigeria often lack the resources, equipment, and training to respond effectively to fires.

Lack of awareness and education: Many residents, business owners, and building managers are not aware of fire safety procedures and best practices.

Corrective Fire and Life Safety Procedures

To address the fire risk in Lagos and Nigeria, a comprehensive approach is needed. The following corrective measures can be implemented:

Fire Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Conduct thorough fire risk assessments of buildings, industries, and infrastructure to identify potential fire hazards and implement mitigation measures. They should be carried out every six months while authorities should enact a law that made it compulsory for property owners to do the needful.

Fire Safety Design and Installation: Ensure that buildings and infrastructure are designed and installed with fire safety features, such as fire-resistant materials, fire alarms, and suppression systems. In order to suppress fire within possible time limit, water works must be adequately provided for by the government maximum of five minutes covering distance area and a special lane must carved for only fire access trucks in case of emergency. Most Building services Engineer in Nigeria majorly relies on BS 9990:2015 Building regulations that wet riser is required for high-rise building of over 50 meters in height, this is only possible in a sane cline or environment like western world. Peculiarities of the environment need to be taken into consideration. The present urban planning in Nigeria doesn’t permit this. It is highly imperative that the riser should be pressurized with water no matter the height of the building. In addition to this, the underground water tank should be adequately sized to cater for fire suppression for at least three hours.

Fire Safety Training and Education: Provide regular training and education to residents, business owners, and building managers on fire safety procedures, emergency response, and evacuation plans.

Firefighting Infrastructure and Equipment: Upgrade firefighting infrastructure and equipment, including fire stations, vehicles, and equipment, to enhance response times and effectiveness. This equipment would have prevented the death of ill-fated staff of UBA in marina,Lagos in Nigeria. Most countries in the world use AI (Artificial Intelligence) to fight fire, and Nigeria should not be left behind. Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Systems/Vehicles (UAS/UAV), or Remotely Piloted Aircraft, that uses artificial intelligence are used in wildfire surveillance and suppression. They help in the detection, containment, and extinguishing of fires. They are also used for locating a hot spot, firebreak breaches, and then to deliver water to the affected site. In terms of maneuverability, these are superior to a helicopter or other forms of manned aircraft. They help firefighters determine where a fire will spread through tracking and mapping fire patterns. These empower scientists and incident personnel to make informed decisions. These devices can fly when and where manned aircraft are unable to fly. They are associated with low cost and are flexible devices that offer a high spatiotemporal resolution

Enforcement of Fire Safety Regulations: Strengthen enforcement of fire safety regulations, including regular inspections and penalties for non-compliance.

Public Awareness and Community Engagement: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate the public on fire safety and promote a culture of fire safety. Social media has made a world a village, The authorities should emphasize more social media campaigns with respect to fire and life safety. Using indigenous languages increases the rate of dissemination of information with respect to safety campaigns.

Implementing Corrective Measures

To implement these corrective measures, the following steps can be taken:

Consultancy: The government should make it more imperative that every project must have a fire and life safety consultant to coordinate other consultants and an office to register all safety consultants must be created.

Establish a Fire Safety Task Force: Create a task force comprising government agencies, fire safety experts, and stakeholders to oversee fire safety efforts.

Develop a Fire Safety Plan: Develop a comprehensive fire safety plan that outlines strategies, procedures, and protocols for fire prevention, response, and mitigation.

Provide training and resources: Provide training and resources to firefighting personnel, building managers, and residents on fire safety procedures and best practices.

Conduct Regular Fire Safety Audits: Conduct regular fire safety audits to ensure compliance with regulations and identify areas for improvement.

Engage with the Community: Engage with the community through public awareness campaigns, workshops, and seminars to promote fire safety and educate the public on fire safety procedures.

Fire Safety Design and Installation

Fire safety design and installation are critical components of fire safety. The following measures can be taken:

Fire-Resistant Materials: Use fire-resistant materials in building construction to reduce the risk of fire spread.

Fire Alarms and Suppression Systems: Install fire alarms and suppression systems in buildings to detect and respond to fires quickly.

Emergency Lighting and Signage: Install emergency lighting and signage to ensure safe evacuation in case of a fire.

Fire-Resistant Doors and Windows: Install fire-resistant doors and windows to prevent fire spread and reduce smoke infiltration.

Fire Safety Training and Education

Fire safety training and education are essential for preventing fires and responding to them effectively. The following measures can be taken:

Fire Safety Training Programs: Develop and implement fire safety training programs for residents, business owners, and building managers.

Emergency Response Plans: Develop and implement emergency response plans for buildings and industries.

Fire Drill Exercises: Conduct regular fire drill exercises to ensure that occupants are prepared in case of a fire.

Fire Safety Awareness Campaigns: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate the public on fire safety and promote a culture of fire safety.

Firefighting Infrastructure and Equipment

Firefighting infrastructure and equipment are critical for responding to fires effectively. The following measures can be taken:

Upgrade Fire Stations: Upgrade fire stations to enhance response times and effectiveness.

Firefighting Vehicles and Equipment: Provide firefighting vehicles and equipment that meet international standards.

Fire Hydrant Systems: Install and maintain fire hydrant systems to ensure adequate water supply for firefighting.

Firefighting Training: Provide regular training to firefighting personnel on firefighting techniques and equipment operation.

Enforcement of Fire Safety Regulations

Enforcement of fire safety regulations is critical for ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of fires. The following measures can be taken:

Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Impose penalties for non-compliance with fire safety regulations.

Fire Safety Certification: Require fire safety certification for buildings and industries.

Public Feedback Mechanism: Establish a public feedback mechanism to report fire safety concerns.

Public Awareness and Community Engagement

Public awareness and community engagement are essential for promoting a culture of fire safety. The following measures can be taken:

Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate the public on fire safety and promote a culture of fire safety.

Community Engagement: Engage with the community through workshops, seminars, and other events to promote fire safety and educate the public on fire safety procedures.

Fire Safety Education: Provide fire safety education in schools and communities.

Partnerships and Collaborations: Collaborate with stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations, to promote fire safety.

Benefits of Corrective Fire and Life Safety Procedures

Implementing corrective fire and life safety procedures can have numerous benefits, including:

Reduced risk of fires: By identifying and mitigating potential fire hazards, the risk of fires can be significantly reduced.

Protection of life and property: Fire safety measures can help protect human life and property from the devastating effects of fires.

Economic benefits: Fires can have significant economic impacts, including loss of business, damage to infrastructure, and costs associated with firefighting and recovery. Implementing fire safety measures can help reduce these costs.

Improved public safety: Fire safety measures can contribute to a safer and more resilient community.

Conclusion

Curbing fires in Lagos and Nigeria requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of fires and promotes a culture of fire safety. By implementing corrective fire and life safety procedures, we can reduce the risk of fires, protect life and property, and promote economic development. As a fire and life safety expert, I urge stakeholders to work together to implement these measures and create a safer and more resilient community.

Recommendations

Based on the analysis above, the following recommendations are made to the appropriate authorities:

Develop a comprehensive fire safety plan: Develop a plan that outlines strategies, procedures, and protocols for fire prevention, response, and mitigation.

Establish a fire safety task force: Create a task force to oversee fire safety efforts and ensure compliance with regulations.

Provide training and resources: Provide training and resources to firefighting personnel, building managers, and residents on fire safety procedures and best practices.

Conduct regular fire safety audits: Conduct regular fire safety audits to ensure compliance with regulations and identify areas for improvement.

Engage with the community: Engage with the community through public awareness campaigns, workshops, and seminars to promote fire safety and educate the public on fire safety procedures.

By working together, we can create a safer and more resilient community in Lagos and Nigeria.

David Olapade Akindoyin is the Managing Director, Zerubabel Konsult, Consulting MEP Engineer, and Fire and Life Safety Expert and

Author of the book: Fire and Life Safety Handbook for Construction Industry

Geregu Power Plc has released its unaudited interim financial statements for the third quarter which ended September 30, 2025, it reported a pre-tax profit of N11.151 billion, representing an 82.47 percent year-on-year (YoY) growth, though slightly missing its Q3 2025 forecast.

Combined with its H1 profit of N26.311 billion, the company’s nine-month pre-tax profit stood at N37.462 billion, which is 3.31 percent higher than the nine-month figure for 2024.

Revenue for Q3 2025 grew by 37.38 per cent YoY to N43.834 billion, pushing the nine-month revenue to N131.467 billion; about 96 percent of the 2024 full-year total.

A review of the financial statements shows that energy sales remain the dominant revenue driver, accounting for over 65 percent of total revenue.

Energy sales increased by 39.7 percent to N28.76 billion in Q3, while capacity charges also grew strongly by 33 percent to N15.1 billion.

On the cost side, gas supply and transportation continue to account for a significant portion of direct expenses, consuming over 65 percent of revenue in Q3 2025, compared to about 58 per cent in Q3 2024.

This pressure on input costs led to a 53 percent year-on-year increase in the cost of sales to N28.58 billion in Q3, bringing the nine-month cost of sales to N78.5 billion.

Nevertheless, the company maintained solid profitability, with profit from core operations rising to N12.546 billion in Q3, representing an 89.98 percent increase from N6.604 billion recorded in the same period last year.

On the balance sheet, total assets grew to N273.152 billion as of September 2025, up from N243.470 billion in December 2024.

Trade receivables accounted for over 62 percent of the asset base, while property, plant, and equipment, which dropped by about 9 percent to N66.238 billion, made up 24.2 percent of total assets.

On the equity side, about 98 percent of shareholders’ funds (N56.413 billion) came from retained earnings, indicating that the company’s total assets are roughly five times its shareholders’ equity.

As of the close of trading on October 10, 2025, Geregu Power Plc’s shares were priced at N1,141.50 on the Nigerian Exchange, reflecting a 0.74 percent year-to-date decline.

Geregu Power’s Q3 2025 results highlight a resilient operation, marked by strong revenue growth and improved cost management.

However, the after-tax margin of around 11 percent indicates pressure from taxes, which tempered overall profitability.

Overall, while rising gas and input costs, along with growing receivables, remain key concerns; Geregu’s consistent profitability and solid balance sheet are encouraging.