Category: PM News

Health experts have said respiratory diseases are rising among the people due to exposure to mould spores in homes.

They warned that vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory or immune conditions are most at risk of serious complications.

Common sources of mould in homes identified are leaking roofs, soaked walls, damp basements, poorly ventilated bathrooms and kitchens, as well as carpets, upholstery, and insulation materials that retain moisture.

The mould often appears as coloured patches on wet surfaces, especially in areas where there is poor air circulation.

The experts maintain that ignoring mould exposure not only compromises indoor air quality but also has long-term consequences for respiratory health, especially in vulnerable populations already burdened by other health challenges.

A public health expert at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Professor Tanimola Akande, was quoted by PUNCH to have said that mould, a type of fungus that thrives in humid, damp, and poorly ventilated environments, poses a significant threat to public health, particularly in water-damaged buildings and homes with poor construction.

According to him, mould releases spores into the air that, when inhaled, can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, including sneezing, catarrh, wheezing, and asthmatic attacks.

Akande pointed out that mould exposure often goes unnoticed until people start showing recurring symptoms.

‘People may treat catarrh or persistent coughs without knowing that the trigger is inside their own homes,’ Akande said.

To combat mould growth, the don recommended fixing leaking plumbing, improving ventilation, and ensuring that wet areas are promptly dried.

Another medical expert and a Senior Registrar in Community Medicine and Primary Care at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dr. Solomon Olorunfemi, described mould exposure as a serious but under-discussed public health issue in households.

He explained that mould exposure happens when people come into contact with mould spores either through the air, through touch, or by eating contaminated food. The danger lies in how easily these spores are inhaled.

Aside coughing and wheezing, symtoms according to him, could also include itchy eyes, skin rashes, and sinus infections which he said are particularly intense in children and the elderly.

Nigerian multi-instrumentalist ?m?´rìnmádé Aníkúlápó Kútì, popularly known as Made Kuti, has opened up on how growing up in the Afrika Shrine affected his childhood.

The Shrine, which was built in the year 2000, has stood as an embodiment of Fela’s music and legacy. Made revealed that he only has happy memories of his childhood days there. He further added that his time there as a child, helped shape his personality an music.

‘I was a troublemaker. Jumping on tables, riding bicycles and skateboards. All my childhood memories of the shrine are happy ones,’ he said.

Made also spoke on the Kuti name, revealing that it is both a blessing and a huge responsibility to bear the name.

‘I know that whatever I do creatively will always be attributed to the family, and I’m okay with that. But sometimes, I wish people could take my music as art in itself, beyond the lineage,’ he added.

Big Brother Naija Season 10 is ending with another major twist, the organisers have revealed that the total prize money for the winner now stands at ?80 million after all deductions and earnings were calculated.

During Sunday’s live briefing, Big Brother gathered housemates in the lounge and displayed a breakdown of how their personal choices, privileges, and tasks impacted the overall prize fund.

According to the figures shown on the screen, every indulgence and advantage came at a price, while sponsored tasks helped the house recover some cash.

The house earned from challenges such as Sips and Strokes (?6.5m), Walking on Eggshells (?2.6m), Big Brother’s Bakery (?800k), Bodycare Products (?2.6m), Big Brother’s Daycare (?3.5m), and Splash and Dash (?2.48m).

But there were also heavy deductions – Kaybobo spent ?10 million on immunity during the Red Phone Twist, while Koyin used house funds to pay for a family visit and a salon session.

Big Brother reminded housemates that every comfort, reward, or luxury inside the house came at a cost – a revelation that triggered laughter and disbelief among the finalists.

The moment turned lighthearted when it was revealed that shawarma orders, a three-day luxury experience for Joanna and Dede, and other small indulgences also ate into the prize fund. Kola, however, humorously turned down a free pedicure and manicure session.

After all earnings and deductions were tallied, Big Brother officially announced that the final prize money is ?80 million.

The update adds extra tension to the upcoming BBNaija s10 grand finale, as fans eagerly await who will walk away with the ultimate crown in Nigeria’s biggest reality TV show.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has replied to the former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar who accused President Bola Tinubu of ‘making merry’ in Plateau while the nation grapples with security challenges.

The ruling party says the President’s commitment to Nigerians’ welfare and security remains total and unshakable.

APC spokesman in the state, Mr Seye Oladejo, stated this on Sunday in Lagos.

President Tinubu was on Saturday in Jos, Plateau, to attend the burial ceremony of Nana Lydia Yilwada, mother of the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada.

‘No amount of reckless politicking or bad-faith commentary from yesterday’s men can diminish the fact that Tinubu remains committed to welfare and security of Nigerians.

‘President Tinubu’s visit to Plateau was a show of compassion and solidarity – a mark of respect to a distinguished Nigerian family in grief and a reaffirmation of our shared humanity.

‘Only a man blinded by political envy would seek to twist such a solemn event for cheap propaganda,’ Oladejo said.

According to him, Tinubu has demonstrated proactive leadership by strengthening security institutions, prioritising intelligence-driven operations, and ensuring unprecedented collaboration among the security agencies.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kaduna Sector Command, has confirmed the death of four persons in a fatal road crash that occurred along the Kaduna-Abuja highway on Sunday evening.

The Sector Commander, Corps Commander Iliyasu Tijjani, confirmed the incident and said it occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. at Kakau, near Gonin Gora, on the outskirts of Kaduna metropolis.

According to Tijjani, the crash involved a gas-laden tanker and a Toyota Hilux, both travelling in the same direction towards Kaduna. Preliminary investigations revealed that the Hilux, which was reportedly speeding, rammed into the moving tanker from behind while attempting a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre.

‘The crash was caused by excessive speeding and dangerous overtaking,’ he said.

There were five occupants in the Hilux – four males and one female. Sadly, all four male passengers were confirmed dead at St. Gerard Catholic Hospital, while the only female passenger is currently receiving treatment at the FRSC Clinic at Tollgate, Kaduna.

Tijjani explained that the impact of the collision caused extensive damage to the Hilux and disrupted traffic flow on the busy highway for some time until emergency responders cleared the scene.

He urged motorists to avoid speeding and reckless driving, warning that most crashes on the Kaduna-Abuja highway stem from impatience and traffic violations.

‘Drivers must obey speed limits, maintain safe distances, and avoid dangerous manoeuvres,’ Tijjani emphasised. ‘The Corps will continue to enforce road safety regulations to protect lives.’

The Sector Commander also commiserated with the families of the deceased and reiterated the FRSC’s commitment – in collaboration with emergency agencies – to ensuring safer road use throughout Kaduna State.

The Chairmen of Mopamuro and Ijumu Local Governments in Kogi, have issued executive orders prohibiting the sale of petrol in jerrycans as part of efforts to curb activities of kidnappers and bandits in their domains.

The two local government areas in Kogi West Senatorial have virtually become the hub for kidnapping activities in the state.

The ban on the sale of fuel in jerrycans will cut off logistics supply to the criminal elements, Mr Ademola Bello, Chairman of Mopamuro, said while announcing the executive order on Friday in Mopa.

He reiterated that the directive was part of efforts to address the growing menace of banditry and kidnappings in the area and Kogi at large.

According to him, the prohibition of fuel sales to individuals in jerrycans is designed to prevent the diversion of fuel into unauthorized channels, especially bandits’ hideouts.

Additionally, Bello restricted sales of provisions in bulk, instructing provision store owners to stop selling goods, particularly food items and other essentials in bulk, to discourage supplying bandits in their various hideouts.

‘To further enhance security surveillance and reduce the incidence of crime at late-night, a curfew has been imposed in Mopamuro LGA, restricting movement beyond 10 p.m.,’ he said.

The chairman directed all security agencies within the local government to strictly enforce the provisions of the executive order.

He warned that any individual found violating these directives would be apprehended and sanctioned in accordance with the law.

‘By adhering to these regulations, residents can significantly contribute to maintaining peace and security within their communities.

‘Together, we can make Mopamuro a safer and more secure place for everyone,’ Bello said.

Similarly, Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna, the Chairman, Ijumu Local Government, issued a directive halting the sale of petrol in jerrycans in the area.

Haruna cited credible intelligence indicating that large quantities of petrol were being diverted for use by kidnappers and bandits.

He emphasised the urgent need for residents to comply with the directive, stressing that the measure was necessary for the safety and security of the community.

Both Chairmen urged residents to cooperate with the local government administration and security agencies in ensuring the success of this initiative.

They assured residents that Kogi State Government was working assiduously to tackle the current security threats.

The chairmen urged the public to remain calm, cooperate fully with authorities, and continue to support government efforts with their prayers. (NAN)

The Nigerian naira fell sharply against the United States dollar at the close of trading on Friday, ending the week on a disappointing note after days of positive performance.

According to official data released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the naira depreciated to ?1,465.68 per dollar at the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), compared to ?1,455.25 per dollar recorded on Thursday.

This represents a ?10.43 drop in value within a single day, signaling renewed pressure on the local currency after a brief period of recovery.

The decline comes after the naira had shown strong momentum earlier in the week, gaining steadily for four consecutive days due to improved dollar supply and increased investor confidence.

However, market analysts suggest that renewed demand for foreign exchange by importers and corporate entities toward the weekend may have triggered the latest round of depreciation.

At the parallel (black) market, the naira remained stable at ?1,485 per dollar on both Thursday and Friday, suggesting that traders are maintaining a wait-and-see approach as the market adjusts to recent policy measures introduced by the apex bank.

Despite Friday’s decline, the naira still recorded a slight improvement on a week-on-week basis, appreciating by ?14.98 when compared to the ?1,480.66 per dollar exchange rate recorded on Friday, September 27, 2025.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s external reserves have continued to grow, standing at $42.40 billion as of October 2, 2025, up from $42.33 billion just three days earlier.

Analysts view this steady rise in reserves as a positive sign, reflecting improved foreign inflows and potential stability for the foreign exchange market in the coming weeks.

Experts have continued to urge the Central Bank to sustain its monetary tightening measures and enhance transparency in the forex market to restore full confidence among investors and businesses.

They also emphasized the need for Nigeria to boost local production and reduce dependence on imports, which remains one of the major factors driving dollar demand.

While the week ended with a slight setback for the naira, economists remain cautiously optimistic that the local currency could regain strength if foreign inflows continue to rise and market reforms are fully implemented.

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced a strategic partnership with Chinese investors aimed at enhancing the state’s energy infrastructure and expanding its industrial capacity.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, the governor revealed that discussions were held with the Jiangsu-based energy company Cteec. Talks focused on financing opportunities, technical expertise, and the company’s readiness to deliver key energy projects in the state.

Governor Abiodun noted that the engagement centred around three major areas of collaboration: Strengthening power transmission and distribution across the state; establishing an Industrial Park designed to attract Chinese manufacturers and integrate power solutions, and installing a free 3MW power plant at the Gateway International Cargo Airport to support immediate operations.

‘Our discussions highlighted three critical components of our partnership: the reinforcement of Ogun’s electricity infrastructure, the creation of a manufacturing hub powered by reliable energy, and the installation of a 3MW power facility at our airport, which will immediately catalyse activity at that important location,’ Abiodun stated.

The governor also disclosed that the Chinese delegation would inspect ongoing distribution and power infrastructure projects executed by Sahara and Powergen, as part of wider efforts to secure a stable energy supply for the state.

According to Abiodun, Cteec already has an existing investment portfolio of 100MW in Nigeria and is now seeking to expand its footprint. The company’s interests include power generation and distribution, investment in a dedicated state transmission network, and the development of an Industrial Park to attract further Chinese manufacturers to Ogun State.

‘This partnership is yet another testament to our unwavering commitment to building the energy backbone that will support Ogun State’s industrialisation and long-term economic development,’ the governor added.

In related developments, the Gateway International Airport in Iperu-Ilishan is gearing up for commercial operations. Reports indicate that inaugural flights from the airport to Abuja have sold out, with tickets for subsequent days also fully booked , signalling strong demand and readiness of the facility to serve as a key aviation hub in Nigeria.

‘Our vision has always been to leave a legacy of sustainable development and inclusive growth. From constructing roads that ease transportation of people and goods, to developing affordable housing, we remain committed to improving the quality of life for our citizens,’ said Abiodun.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority officially granted the Gateway International Airport its Aerodrome Operational Permit in August 2025. Passenger flight services are scheduled to commence on 7 October 2025, with Value Jet Airline operating flights twice weekly.

Chelsea grabbed all three points in dramatic fashion after edging Liverpool 2-1 in a heated Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge on Saturday night.

Moises Caicedo was the hero for the Blues, scoring twice, including a 95th-minute stunner that sent the home fans wild.

The midfielder gave Chelsea an early lead in the 14th minute with a fine strike from the edge of the box after a clever pass from Malo Gusto.

Liverpool drew level in the 63rd minute through Cody Gakpo, who finished off a neat move from Alexander Isak’s assist.

Just when it looked like both sides would share the spoils, Caicedo struck again deep into stoppage time to hand Enzo Maresca’s men a massive win.

Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai was booked late on for a rough challenge on Marc Cucurella, while Chelsea’s defensive troubles worsened after Benoît Badiashile limped off injured – leaving all six senior centre-backs sidelined.

The victory extends Chelsea’s unbeaten run to three league games and lifts the mood around Stamford Bridge after a dramatic finish..

Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice were the stars of the show as Arsenal cruised past West Ham United on Saturday, marking Mikel Arteta’s 300th game in charge with a dominant 2-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium.

Rice opened his account for the season against his former club, finishing neatly after Eberechi Eze’s shot was parried by Alphonse Areola. The goal came shortly after captain Martin Odegaard was forced off with an injury, the third straight home game the midfielder has failed to finish.

Despite the setback, Arsenal maintained full control of the match. Their attacking intent was clear from the start, with Arteta fielding an adventurous midfield of Rice, Odegaard, and Eze, showing the depth of a squad strengthened by a £250m summer overhaul.

The Gunners sealed victory in the second half after Jurrien Timber was brought down by El Hadji Malick Diouf inside the box. Saka, making his 200th Premier League appearance, calmly converted the resulting penalty, his 55th league goal for the club.

The win sent Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table, overtaking Liverpool ahead of their clash with Chelsea later in the day.

For West Ham, new boss Nuno Espirito Santo is still searching for his first win. His side showed flashes of discipline and organisation but were ultimately second best against a superior Arsenal team.

Niclas Fullkrug went close from a corner, while Lucas Paquetá fired over the bar, but the visitors rarely threatened Guglielmo Vicario’s goal.