Category: PM News

Twelve suspected logistics suppliers and collaborators of ISWAP/JAS terrorists have been arrested by Nigerian troops in separate operations across Borno State.

Operational reports made available on Tuesday in Abuja indicated that troops of 135 Special Forces Battalion, supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and vigilantes, apprehended 10 of the suspects at Kurnari area of Borno State.

The suspects were intercepted while heading to Miringa Market with five cows, two tricycles, nine mobile phones, two waist bags, a knife and ?12,600.

It added that the suspects and recovered items are in military custody for further investigation.

The report also said that in a separate operation, troops of 149 Battalion, supported by hybrid forces and the CJTF, arrested another suspected logistics supplier at Zowo Village in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State

‘Troops recovered 125 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, a mobile phone and other items from the suspect.

‘The suspect reportedly confessed to supplying logistics to terrorists operating along the Binduldul-Kareto axis,’ it said.

The report further revealed that troops of 19 Brigade and the CJTF arrested a suspected terrorist informant in Monguno community of Borno State.

According to the report, preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect supplied logistics and intelligence on troop movements to terrorists operating around the Kekeno-Monguno axis.

It added that troops on patrol at Mallam Fatori recovered an abandoned 60mm mortar bomb and one RPG bomb believed to have been left behind by terrorists.

‘Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel safely secured and recovered the unexploded ordnance,’ it added. (www.nannews.ng)

Health experts have urged adults aged 19 and above to undergo hepatitis screening and receive vaccination, warning that the disease can remain undetected for months while causing serious damage to the liver and other vital organs.

The call was made on Tuesday July 28, 2026, during commemorations of World Hepatitis Day, as Siha Polyclinic in Tanga launched a week-long campaign offering free hepatitis testing and vaccination to the public.

Speaking at the event, one of the hospital workers, Dr Penina Sikira, said people aged 19 and above are among those most at risk of hepatitis infection because the modes of transmission are similar in many respects to those of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

She said one of the greatest challenges is that infected individuals can live with the virus for more than six months without experiencing symptoms, delaying diagnosis and treatment while increasing the risk of severe complications.

“If treatment is not sought early, the virus continues to attack the liver and may eventually affect other vital organs such as the kidneys. It also weakens the immune system, making patients more vulnerable to other diseases,” she said.

Dr Sikira said hepatitis symptoms may include yellowing of the eyes and urine, pain in the upper abdomen, fever and fatigue, although some patients may show no symptoms at all.

She explained that hepatitis is caused by five types of viruses, namely Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E.

Citing figures from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Sikira said more than 254 million people worldwide are living with chronic hepatitis B infection, while over 1.1 million new infections are recorded each year.

She said the hospital had decided to mark this year’s World Hepatitis Day by providing free screening and vaccination services to help residents know their health status.

“Anyone diagnosed with hepatitis will begin treatment immediately, while those who test negative will receive a vaccine to protect them against infection. We encourage the public to take advantage of this opportunity,” she said.

Siha Polyclinic Medical Officer in Charge, Dr Kasanga Bashiru, said Tanga remains among the regions with a high burden of hepatitis infections, underscoring the need for greater public awareness and stronger collaboration between communities and healthcare stakeholders.

He said the week-long campaign aims to screen and vaccinate at least 150 people, although the hospital hopes the turnout will exceed that target.

“We have officially launched the testing and vaccination exercise, which will continue for one week. We encourage as many people as possible to participate,” he said.

Pastor Dr Gidion Lukindo said the liver plays a critical role in processing nutrients and removing toxins from the body, warning that diseases affecting the organ can have far-reaching health consequences.

He urged the public to ignore misinformation surrounding hepatitis testing and vaccination, stressing that both services are safe and effective.

“Some people avoid testing because they believe false information. The truth is that early screening allows people to begin treatment promptly or receive a vaccine if they are not infected,” he said.

Tangasisi Ward councillor Bunu Bahero, who participated in the exercise, said he tested negative for hepatitis and was subsequently vaccinated.

He encouraged residents to make use of the free services, saying knowing one’s health status is an important step towards protecting both individuals and their families from hepatitis infection.

“We should not fear getting tested. This is an opportunity to know our health status and receive protection early. I urge everyone to take advantage of these essential services,” he said.

A dispute over the burial of 54-year-old Wambura Mambya has reached court, with the parties involved appearing close to reaching an agreement on who will take responsibility for the funeral arrangements.

Civil Case No. 19355 of 2026, filed by Elizabeth Nyakao, the deceased’s first wife, against John Mambya, was heard on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 before Nyamagana District Court Senior Resident Magistrate Chrescencia Mushi.

The hearing had initially been scheduled to begin at 11am. However, while the first wife’s legal team entered the courtroom, the deceased’s relatives remained outside, saying they were unfamiliar with court procedures and did not know which courtroom to enter.

As a result of the relatives’ absence when the case was called, the court adjourned the matter to July 30, 2026.

Following the adjournment, the relatives met their lawyer and explained that they had missed the hearing because they were unfamiliar with court procedures. They asked to be given an opportunity to present their case, prompting lawyers for both sides to begin negotiations, which were at times tense, in an effort to reach an amicable settlement.

During the discussions, the deceased’s relatives said they were prepared to allow the body to be taken to the first wife before being buried in the family’s village, or alternatively hand it over to her to conduct the burial.

They also said they had no claim to the deceased’s property and were willing to leave it to the first wife.

The deceased’s second wife did not appear in court. It was claimed that she had left the matter to her relatives to follow the proceedings on her behalf.

Lawyer Demetrius Mtete said disputes of this nature are often resolved through negotiations between the parties.

“Cases like these usually require mutual agreement between the parties to ensure fairness and avoid further conflict,” he said.

The parties later reached a preliminary agreement that the deceased would be buried by his family in accordance with their customs and traditions.

The case is expected to resume at 12 noon on Wednesday for the agreement to be formally presented before the court.

Speaking after the discussions, Ms Nyakao said she was satisfied with the agreement.

“I have forgiven them, and I am satisfied with the agreement we have reached,” she said.

Some of the deceased’s relatives, who requested anonymity, said they had agreed to follow Kurya customs, under which burial is conducted by the deceased’s family.

Mr Mambya, who worked as a fisherman, died on July 21, 2026 at Mwanza Regional Referral Hospital, Sekou Toure.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has defended the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, saying the commission has been neutral and has not intimidated anyone in the runup to the 2027 general election

The President said this on Tuesday while receiving the leadership of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by its President, Most Rev. Matthew Ndagoso, at the State House, Abuja.

Most Rev. Ndagoso, Archbishop of Kaduna, attended the meeting with 19 CBCN leaders.

The President said his political opponents crying fouls are only afraid of their own shadows as the electoral body is providing level playing ground for all political parties.

‘The opportunities are equal. INEC is neutral. They have never intimidated anyone. If political opponents are crying wolf, maybe they are afraid of their own shadows and uncertainty in the companies they keep, not me,’ Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy quoted Tinubu as saying

The President also assured that the ongoing restructuring of security operations and institutions will deliver victory over terrorism, banditry and kidnappings across the country.

According to him, Nigeria’s security architecture is being repositioned for greater efficiency.

President Tinubu revealed that the security challenges are being confronted through enhanced intelligence gathering, restructuring and repositioning of security institutions, improved logistical support, and prioritisation of frontline personnel welfare.

He called on the CBCN and all religious leaders to actively condemn violent attacks, guide their members, and support government efforts to end insurgency.

‘We don’t have another country but here – this Nigeria. And I will refer to the national anthem that in our complexity and diversity, we shall thrive, live, rejoice and be good to all, and humanity.

‘I have just approved the expansion of the armed forces. We are getting more equipment, building new barracks. We will defeat terrorism. It should be part of your sermons. I won’t deviate from our national anthem,” the President added.

On poverty alleviation, President Tinubu affirmed that the government will sustain interventions that directly improve the livelihoods of families and citizens, such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

‘I have listened to you carefully, and most importantly, your key areas are security and education. I can tell you categorically with sincerity that the country has been placed on a sound footing. The economy has recovered. The alarm for bankruptcy and dark tunnel of uncertainty that we had when I came in has been changed.

‘The spirit of the people is lifting, and the economic turmoil that we feared is cleared. The economy has been delivered from bankruptcy.

‘I always say, because of my background and profession, that I inherited the assets and liabilities of my predecessor. I have been running with it. This government has stabilised, and there is prosperity on the horizon. Life is improving,” he stated.

The President urged citizens to explore available opportunities for engagement provided by the government and private institutions and embrace education, entrepreneurship and skills acquisition.

‘We have no control over the population growth and trajectory. That is why you have membership in your various faiths, churches, to give hope to people and give commitment to humanity in the true sense of it. Our founding fathers did their best. They left us a nation, and we owe it to generations yet unborn to sustain it,” the President added.

President Tinubu said unity, stability and prosperity of the country must be held sacrosanct by all stakeholders.

‘To educate our children, I can say your children because you are revered fathers. You can’t say a four-year course in the university is not four years now. ASUU is not on strike. They are not bringing agony to our homes. Is that not an answer to our prayers? For me, that’s answered prayer,” President Tinubu noted.

The President said the outlook on the country must remain positive.

The President told the leaders of the CBCN that state governors, following the constitution, have the authority to decide the return of mission schools.

‘I returned all mission schools when I was the governor of Lagos State, and Cardinal Okogie, one of my best friends, is alive to testify to that,” he stated.

President Tinubu affirmed that more universities had been approved to meet the growing demand for higher education, and the statistics by the NUC will help in the budgeting of NELFUND.

‘I believe in what you believe; we should embrace education to get out of poverty,” he said.

In his remarks, the President of the CBCN appreciated the President for the warm reception extended to the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of relations between Nigeria and the Vatican.

Ndagoso outlined areas of concern in the country, which include security, quality tertiary education and limited spaces, sustaining gains of democracy, credible elections and poverty.

The President of CBCN also urged President Tinubu to consider the return of mission schools and fair treatment for all worshipers, including the provision of worship places in all parts of the country, without bias.

The Archbishop of Kaduna called for free and fair elections in 2027.

‘As a man who risked so much in the struggle for the return of democratic rule in the dark days of the military dictatorship, your greatest legacy would be the strengthening of our democratic institutions,’ the Archbishop said.

The delegation included: Most Rev. Alfred MARTINS Archbishop of Lagos/CBCN Vice President; Most Rev. Peter ODETOYINBO Bishop of Abeokuta/CBCN Secretary; Most Rev. Moses CHIKWE Auxiliary Bishop of Owerri/CBCN Assistant Secretary; John Cardinal ONAIYEKAN, Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja; Peter Cardinal OKPALEKE, Bishop of Ekwulobia; Most Rev. Ignatius KIAGAMA, Archbishop of Abuja; Most Rev. Gabriel ABEGUNRIN, Archbishop of Ibadan; Most Rev. Valerian OKEKE, Archbishop of Onitsha; Most Rev. Emmanuel BADEJO, Bishop of Oyo; Most Rev. Gerald MUSA, Bishop of Katsina and Most Rev. Matthew KUKAH, Bishop of Sokoto.

Also on the delegation were: Most Rev. Callistus ONAGA, Bishop of Enugu; Most Rev Godfrey ONAH, Bishop of Nsukka; Most Rev. Augustine ECHEMA, Bishop of Aba; Most Rev. Christopher NASERI, Auxiliary Bishop of Calabar; Rev. Fr. Michael BANJO, Secretary General; Rev. Fr. Peter AUDU, Director, Church and Society Department; Rev. Fr. Michael IMHADOWINYI and Dickson ADEYANJU.

The Federal Government is preparing another upward review of salaries for members of the Armed Forces, with President Bola Tinubu expected to make the announcement soon, according to the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa ( rtd).

Speaking on Monday at a financial empowerment and entrepreneurship workshop for widows and spouses of service personnel at Lungi Barracks in Abuja, the minister said improving the welfare of troops remained a key priority for the administration.

He noted that the government recognised the sacrifices made by soldiers in protecting the country and was determined to ensure they received better remuneration.

‘I want to state here that a few weeks ago, I mentioned that soldiers are now receiving ?100,000, and I know that generated both positive and negative reactions.

‘When I was chief of defence staff, soldiers were receiving N49,000. About two years ago, I pushed for an increase to N100,000, and that was achieved.

‘We are, however, making further efforts to increase it again. We know our President is a listening father who understands the sacrifices our troops are making and is committed to ensuring they are well remunerated. So, I am confident that very soon, Mr. President will announce another salary increase for our men.’

The workshop, themed ‘Renewed Hope for Families of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Through Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development,’ was organised by the Ministry of Defence in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).

Badaru said the initiative was aimed at improving the financial stability of military families, particularly widows and wives of non-commissioned officers deployed in various operational areas across the country.

He observed that while security personnel often spend long periods away from home tackling security threats, their families provide vital support that enables them to remain focused on their duties.

‘Every day, our personnel confront complex security challenges in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and the protection of the lives and property of our citizens.

‘Many serve in difficult operational environments, separated from their families for extended periods and exposed to considerable risks. While their courage and sacrifice are rightly celebrated, we must equally recognise the invaluable role played by the families who stand firmly behind them.

‘To the spouses gathered here today, your resilience, patience and steadfast support give your loved ones the confidence to remain focused on their responsibilities.

‘To our widows whose husbands served Nigeria with honour and distinction, your strength and perseverance in the face of loss remain an enduring source of inspiration,” the minister said.

He stressed that the effectiveness of the armed forces depended not only on well-trained personnel and modern equipment but also on the welfare and economic security of their families.

‘When military families are economically secure, they are better positioned to withstand the unique demands of military life. This gives service personnel the confidence that their loved ones are well supported, allowing them to concentrate fully on their operational responsibilities.

‘Strengthening the economic resilience of military families is, therefore, an important investment in the effectiveness of our Armed Forces and the security of our nation.”

According to the minister, the entrepreneurship training is intended to provide participants with practical business and enterprise management skills, enabling them to establish sustainable businesses, earn income and contribute to the country’s economic growth

Tanzania is positioning itself as a regional centre for commercial arbitration as the Tanzania Institute of Arbitrators (TIArb) intensifies efforts to make the country a preferred destination for resolving domestic and cross-border business disputes.

TIArb President Aderickson Njunwa said the institute was working to strengthen the country’s arbitration ecosystem by improving practitioners’ capacity and providing businesses and investors with an efficient, credible and cost-effective alternative to settling disputes abroad.

For years, companies involved in major commercial transactions have preferred arbitration centres in cities such as London, Paris, Dubai and Singapore due to their global reputation and institutional capacity.

However, TIArb believes Tanzania can attract more arbitration cases by developing its infrastructure, strengthening expertise and working with the judiciary to ensure disputes are handled in line with international standards.

Speaking during the recently concluded Dar Arbitration Week (DAW), held alongside the 8th TIArb Annual Arbitration Conference in Dar es Salaam, Mr Njunwa said a strong arbitration framework provides investors with confidence that disputes can be resolved fairly, efficiently and predictably. He said this was particularly important for sectors such as infrastructure, energy, mining, construction and international trade, where projects often involve complex contracts and large financial commitments.

Opening the conference, Chief Justice George Masaju, represented by Principal Judge Dr Mustapher Siyani, commended TIArb for organising the event under the theme: ‘Arbitration in the Era of Sustainable Development: Balancing Natural Resources, Investment, and Infrastructure Development.’

The Chief Justice said arbitration should not be viewed only as an alternative to litigation but as an important part of the justice system.

He said courts and arbitration institutions have complementary roles, with courts protecting the integrity of arbitration proceedings while respecting the independence of the process.

As Tanzania expands investment in infrastructure, energy, natural resources and cross-border trade, the number of complex commercial disputes is expected to rise.

The Chief Justice said arbitration offers advantages such as efficiency, specialised expertise, confidentiality, finality and enforceability of awards across jurisdictions.

He challenged legal practitioners and arbitration professionals to prepare for emerging disputes involving climate obligations, environmental governance, technology, intellectual property and international transactions.

He called for continuous professional development, increased use of technology and alignment with global standards to strengthen Tanzania’s competitiveness in arbitration.

The Chief Justice expressed confidence that strong institutions, skilled arbitrators and supportive legislation could help Tanzania become a respected arbitration centre in Africa and beyond.

Mr John Chibunna, founder, Go Green Nigeria Foundation, an NGO, has called for more stringent government efforts towards prohibition of illegal sand mining in Rivers, following erosion threats.

He made the call on Monday in Umuechem, Etche Local Government Area of Rivers to commemorate the International Day for the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems.

Chibunna, who sensitised the community on dangers associated with crude sand mining, donated some trees as part of efforts to promote tree planting and revitalisation of the altered mangrove ecosystem.

During an interactive session with the community, the environmental expert identified various concerns and commended residents for their willingness to work together to end the excavation.

He, however, dismissed the notion that illegal sand mining was due to poverty and unemployment, saying, ‘the businesses is a capital intensive venture that could only be operated by a rich cartel.’

He said that though the business might have provided menial jobs for few youths, it had not in any manner addressed poverty.

‘Affected communities have continued to lose arable lands, exposing themselves to impending erosion and possible landslide.

‘Livelihoods would have been better protected if the people were farming on these ancestral lands Which had unfortunately been sold out by few high high-handed induviduals.

‘Presently, the landscape is altered with an artificial river encroaching a major access road and threatening public safety,’ he said.

Also speaking, a senior Chief in the community, Chief Gilbert Otamiri commended NGO for the initiative and promised to collaborate with them.

Gilbert, however, urged the government to tackle unemployment which, he said, was a major promoter of the illegal excavation.

Also speaking, Mr Agbam Mgbechi, the Community Development Chairman (CDC) thanked the group for the sensitisation and donation of trees.

He called on the government and concerned induviduals to emulate the group by making efforts towards salvaging the area from further environmental damage.

The Lagos State Government has stepped up efforts to prevent accidents and fatalities in high-rise buildings by engaging facility managers, safety professionals and industry stakeholders on stricter safety standards and compliance across the state’s built environment.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Lagos State Safety Commission, is aimed at promoting collaboration among stakeholders to improve safety practices, strengthen facility management and ensure the protection of workers in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum themed ‘Safe Building, Protected Workforce,’ the Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, stressed that safety must be integrated into every stage of a building’s lifecycle, from design and construction to operation and maintenance.

Drawing from his experience in facility management, Mojola lamented the rapid deterioration of many buildings due to poor maintenance and inadequate attention to safety.

‘A building is a dynamic, living ecosystem that must be tested every day through operational discipline, routine maintenance, electrical and mechanical inspections, elevator checks, fire safety systems and emergency preparedness,’ he said.

According to him, every building failure, fire outbreak and workplace accident serves as a reminder that safety should never be treated as an afterthought.

‘Safety is the foundation that protects lives, preserves assets and sustains public confidence,’ Mojola added.

He also called for mandatory safety training and certification for facility managers, saying global best practices demand that professionals managing buildings possess strong safety knowledge to reduce workplace accidents.

Mojola noted that workers carrying out high-risk duties, including painters, cleaners, rooftop technicians and contractors, must be adequately protected from injuries and fatalities through strict adherence to safety procedures.

Delivering the keynote address, the Technical Adviser to the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Seun Awojobi, said the forum was designed to develop practical solutions that would improve construction safety, occupational health and facility management across Lagos.

He said the government’s commitment goes beyond regulation, stressing that every worker deserves to return home safely after each day’s work.

‘As Lagos continues to expand with more skyscrapers, industries and commercial developments, maintaining the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance has become more critical than ever,’ Awojobi said.

He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to promoting a proactive safety culture through regular inspections, stakeholder engagement, capacity building, public enlightenment and strict enforcement of safety regulations.

Experts at the forum also underscored the need for stronger collaboration between facility managers and safety professionals to reduce risks in workplaces and high-rise buildings.

Guest speaker Mr. Lekan Akinwumi described collaboration as the cornerstone of workplace safety, urging organisations to integrate occupational safety with effective facility management.

Similarly, leaders of the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), the Association of Facility Management Practitioners of Nigeria (AFMPN) and the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) called on industry players to embrace global best practices, uphold ethical standards and comply fully with safety regulations.

The stakeholders also highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness, risk management and disaster prevention as Lagos continues to witness rapid urban development and a growing number of high-rise buildings.

Taifa Group has announced the resumption of Nation Media Group’s operations in Uganda following authorisation by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, describing the move as a boost to regional investment, media development and East African integration.

In a statement issued in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 Taifa Group said the decision marked an important milestone for the media company, which operates in several East African markets.

Through its subsidiary, Taarifa Limited, Taifa Group is the majority shareholder of Nation Media Group (NMG) and said it remains committed to responsible investment, corporate governance and sustainable development across the region.

Taifa Group Chairman Mr Rostam Azizi expressed appreciation to President Museveni for authorising the resumption of operations and thanked Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba for his support during engagements that led to the decision.

‘We are honoured by this decision and remain steadfast in our commitment to Uganda’s socio-economic development through responsible investment, long-term partnerships and sustainable value creation,’ Mr Azizi said.

He said Taifa Group supports NMG’s commitment to fair, balanced, independent and responsible journalism, adding that a strong media sector plays an important role in promoting national development, good governance and regional cooperation.

‘This decision demonstrates the value of dialogue, mutual respect and regional cooperation. Taifa Group will continue investing in opportunities that create jobs, strengthen institutions and advance shared prosperity across East Africa,’ he said.

NMG Chairman Mr Joe Muganda said the company would focus on rebuilding its presence in Uganda, reconnecting with audiences and strengthening its contribution to the country’s media sector.

‘We welcome the opportunity to resume operations in Uganda and to reconnect with our audiences, employees, commercial partners and communities,’ he said.

He said the company’s immediate priorities would include restoring its platforms responsibly, strengthening local content and providing credible, relevant and innovative journalism across print, broadcast and digital channels.

Mr Muganda said NMG would use its regional experience and capabilities to support a resilient media industry in Uganda while creating opportunities for talent, businesses and public engagement.

Taifa Group said the resumption of operations reflects the longstanding relationship between Uganda and Tanzania and the broader commitment by East African governments and the private sector to promote regional integration, cross-border investment and economic cooperation.

NMG operates across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, where it provides print, broadcast and digital media services.

Taifa Group said it will continue partnering with governments, institutions, businesses and communities across East Africa to expand sustainable economic opportunities and support regional prosperity.

Taifa Group is a diversified East African investment group with interests in telecommunications, mining, energy, infrastructure, aviation, media, logistics, agriculture, real estate and industrial development.

Operatives of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested two suspected drug traffickers and recovered 1,359kg of cannabis and cannabis seeds in a raid on a warehouse in Illushi, Esan South-East Local Government Area of the state.

The state NDLEA Commander, Dr Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Benin.

Ofoyeju said the seizure followed a joint intelligence-led operation by NDLEA operatives and personnel of the Nigerian Army in the Illushi community.

He said the operation targeted a four-bedroom bungalow allegedly converted into a warehouse for storing large quantities of cannabis.

According to him, operatives recovered 52 giant bags of cannabis, three gallons of cannabis seeds and an additional bag containing cannabis seeds.

He said the seizure comprised 1,273kg of cannabis and 86kg of cannabis seeds, bringing the total quantity recovered to 1,359kg.

Ofoyeju identified the suspects as Ojore Onweze, 45, and George Agwumede, 30.

The commander alleged that the suspects were found in possession of 60kg and 13kg of cannabis respectively.

Ofoyeju expressed concern over the increasing use of residential buildings as warehouses for illicit drugs, describing the trend as a serious threat to public safety.

‘The use of residential houses in stockpiling illicit drugs is dangerous and must be vehemently confronted by citizens.

‘These enemies of the state must not be allowed to destroy our communities,’ he said.

‘We are pleased with the operational successes recorded because the quantity is massive and impressive,’ Ofoyeju said.

He described the raid as evidence of the agency’s determination to dismantle criminal networks involved in illicit drug trafficking.

‘This raid is a testament to our unwavering determination to dismantle the networks that seek to undermine our collective peace and safety,’ he said.

Ofoyeju said investigations were ongoing to identify other members of the drug network and uncover possible accomplices.

He said the agency would continue collaborating with stakeholders, including community leaders, to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse across Edo.

‘This fight is not just for NDLEA; it is a collective responsibility,’ he said.

Ofoyeju commended the Nigerian Army for its support and urged residents to actively support the campaign against drug abuse.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring those involved in trafficking and distributing illicit substances were brought to justice.

‘Together, we can build a safer and healthier environment for current and future generations,’ he said. (NAN)