FCCPC seals four warehouses, retail outlets in Kano over deceptive trade practices

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sealed four textile warehouses and several retail outlets in Kano State for allegedly engaging in deceptive trade practices involving the sale of under-measured and substandard fabric materials.

The enforcement exercise, which took place on Wednesday, was led by the Commission’s Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Mrs Boladale Adeyinka. It followed weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering across major textile markets in the state.

According to the FCCPC, the affected distributors were found to be selling fabric materials significantly shorter or lighter than the measurements and quantities indicated, thereby charging unsuspecting consumers full prices for underweight goods.

The operation targeted warehouses and outlets located at Gandun Abada Layout, Ibrahim Taiwo Road, Bua Rice Mills Street, Ajasa Inuwa Wada Road, and Gandun Albasa New Layout in Kano metropolis.

Products implicated in the deceptive practices include LGR, UandMe, Nana Tex, V Levintus, Mama Africa, Hightex, UE, S-U Velt, and Jisiki textile brands.

The Commission noted that such conduct contravenes Sections 123(1) and 125(1) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, which prohibit misleading representations and deceptive practices in trade.

Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr Tunji Bello, condemned the exploitative activities, describing them as harmful to both consumers and fair market competition.

‘By undermining honest traders and businesses that comply with lawful standards, this nefarious practice of selling underweight products can drive legitimate retailers out of the market, thereby reducing consumer choice and entrenching anti-competitive behaviour,’ Bello said.

He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring fairness in the marketplace, warning that the agency will continue to sanction individuals and entities involved in deceptive conduct across the country.

Bello also commended the diligence of the enforcement team led by Mrs Adeyinka and expressed appreciation to security agencies for their cooperation during the operation.

Niger govt procures water treatment chemicals to tackle shortage

The Niger State Government has taken a significant step towards addressing the water shortage challenge in the state by procuring aluminium sulfate and HTH chlorine aimed at boosting water revitalisation.

This was made known by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Water Resources and Dams Development, Akilu Musa Kuta, who explained that the challenges faced during the dry season in the water sector have become worrisome, hence there is a need to provide solutions despite the limited resources available.

Indication to this effect emerged on Wednesday in Minna, following a press statement issued and made available to journalists in Minna by Safiya Yaman Muhammad, Information Officer (MWRandDD) emphasising that Akilu Musa Kuta also said, the State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago is working round the clock to ensure he revives all the water works and Biwater supply schemes across the state, to ensure all nigerlites have access to affordable, reliable and potable drinking water.

The statement added that the Permanent Secretary also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to water revitalisation, stating that the procurement of the chemicals is part of the government’s efforts to improve water treatment and supply in the state.

‘Therefore, the move is expected to ensure that citizens have access to safe and clean drinking water,’ the statement declared.

He was also quoted as having noted that the government’s action demonstrates its commitment to addressing the water shortage issue in the state by taking proactive steps aimed at mitigating the impact of water scarcity on residents and improving their overall well-being.

Yanman said, ‘The Ministry has received 1,200 bags of aluminium sulfate and 30 Drums of Calcrum Hypocrite (HTH).’

It could be recalled that last week, some areas in the state capital started benefiting from the improved water supply. These areas include: Niger State College of Education (COE), part of Tunga, part of Chanchaga, Tungan Gauro and Gidan Madara

Others, she said, include UK Bello- Labour House Areas, Mobil Area, Part of Kwangila-123 Qtrs-Old Airport Qtrs (Behind Bomas )-l, Kuta Road -A/Daji Areas, Central Mosque Area, David Mark Road Area, El-Amin School Area and Tudun Natsira, M. I.Wushishi Estate, Mandela. Road, Himma School Area, Barikin Saleh Area, Kpakungu Area and Darusalam Area, Oduoye Qtrs , Sauka Kahuta, London Street, Adamawa Road, NIPOST Qtrs, Okada Road, Part Of Type B Qtrs (James Gara Street, Dr Mustapha Street), Government House And GRA, Natty Farm Area, Fadikpe Area AandB, Kotun Kashew, Kpakungu And Anguwan Sarki.

The statement added that, however, more areas are expected to benefit soon.

Oyo Speaker calls for regulation of real estate agents

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has expressed deep concern over the unregulated activities of real estate agents across the state, warning that their exploitative practices are making access to housing increasingly difficult for residents, especially low- and middle-income earners.

Speaking while delivering his keynote address at the Oyo State Real Estate Conference 2025 held in Ibadan, the Speaker decried the widespread exploitation of clients by some agents, who, he said, often charge exorbitant agency fees without standardised procedures or accountability.

According to him, such unethical practices have placed undue financial burdens on prospective tenants and property buyers, thereby worsening the housing accessibility gap in the state.

‘Residents have increasingly raised concerns over the unregulated activities of real estate agents, many of whom exploit clients by charging excessive agency fees without any standard procedure or accountability,’ Ogundoyin said.

‘This practice has made access to housing more difficult for many, particularly low- and middle-income earners, and there is a need to correct this situation.’

The Speaker disclosed that the Oyo State House of Assembly had passed a resolution urging the Executive arm of government and relevant stakeholders, particularly the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, to design a comprehensive regulatory framework that would sanitise the sector and protect residents from exploitation.

‘We have to work together to achieve success in this sector,’ he added. ‘You cannot dictate to a private homeowner how much to rent out their property, nor can you tell an agent what to charge, but we must collaborate to curb the extortion of low- and middle-income earners. It must be a joint effort.’

Ogundoyin emphasised that, beyond introducing new regulations, there must be strict enforcement of existing laws to ensure compliance and accountability within the real estate sector.

‘It is time for the laws to take their full course. Any agent found guilty of exploitation or malpractice must be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others,’ he declared.

The Speaker also commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his administration’s bold land reform initiatives and ongoing efforts to combat land grabbing a major challenge affecting real estate investment in the state.

He noted that the establishment of the Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force, empowered to investigate and prosecute illegal land acquisitions and harassment of landowners, has restored confidence among investors and property developers.

‘If anybody comes across Omo Onile (land grabbers), I can guarantee you that the Oyo State Government is determined to ensure that any situation capable of discouraging investors is reduced to zero,’ Ogundoyin stated.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the State House of Assembly to continue partnering with the Executive and private-sector stakeholders to build a transparent, investor-friendly, and people-centred real estate ecosystem in Oyo State.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Akinsete Olakunle, reiterated the state government’s commitment to developing a smart, sustainable, and investor-friendly real estate sector that would drive economic growth and urban transformation across the state.

He noted that while significant progress had been achieved under the present administration, there is a need for a more strategic, inclusive, and data-driven approach to housing development.

‘Innovation, transparency, and evidence-based planning must guide the growth of our real estate sector if we are to ensure its long-term success,’ Hon. Akinsete said.

The Oyo State Real Estate Conference 2025 brought together government officials, industry experts, property developers, and investors to discuss strategies for strengthening regulation, improving urban planning, and promoting sustainable housing delivery in the state.

Senate uncovers $300bn unaccounted crude oil sales

About $300billion of crude oil sales can’t be accounted for, according to an interim report by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft in the Niger Delta.

The committee, which probed crude oil sales across several years, was chaired by Senator Ned Nwoko.

The Delta-North lawmaker presented the preliminary report of his findings to the Senate on Wednesday in Abuja.

The report noted that a forensic review of domestic crude proceeds and tax oil returns showed differentials, mismatches and unaccounted funds amounting to a staggering $22 billion.

Similarly, it uncovered a shortfall of $81 billion between receipts declared by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and those recorded by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for 2016 and 2017, a development that shocked the Senate.

Furthermore, the panel’s review of crude oil sales from 2015 to date, indicated that over $200bn in oil proceeds remained unaccounted for globally.

The report followed months of document reviews and public hearings, tracing the problem to faulty measurement systems, weak regulatory oversight, and poor coordination among government agencies.

The panel identified the use of unverified measuring instruments, lack of meteorological control, ineffective interagency collaboration, and uncoordinated enforcement mechanisms as major enablers of crude oil theft.

The panel also faulted the suspension of the Weights and Measures Department’s activities in the upstream sector under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, saying the decision undermined accountability and accurate measurement in crude oil operations.

In addition, it noted that the absence of a special court to prosecute oil thieves and the non-implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust Fund (HCDTF) under the PIA had contributed to persistent sabotage and theft in oil-producing areas.

The panel projected that the unaccounted domestic crude sales proceeds amount to about $300 billion, calling for urgent local and international tracking, tracing and recovery of stolen crude oil funds for the benefit of the country.

The committee appealed to the Federal Government to mandate the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to enforce international crude oil measurement standards at all production sites and export terminals or restore the Weights and Measures Department to its former regulatory role.

Moreover, it recommended that the government provide security agencies with modern surveillance technology and equipment, including unmanned aerial vehicles, to strengthen monitoring of oil facilities and detect theft and leakages in real time.

The panel called for the establishment of a Maritime Trust Fund to support the development and maintenance of maritime infrastructure, training and safety operations, as well as the creation of a special court to promptly prosecute crude oil thieves and their collaborators.

The Nwoko panel advised the immediate implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust Fund (HCDTF) to reduce community sabotage and promote inclusion in the management of oil resources.

Besides, the committee expressed concern over the growing number of abandoned and poorly decommissioned oil wells across the Niger Delta, which it said were leaking oil and gas into the environment and polluting communities.

The report recommended that such wells be ceded to the NUPRC for handover to modular refineries to increase crude availability for local consumption and reduce vandalism.

But, it noted a modest recovery in crude oil production, which increased by 9.5 per cent in 2023 from 490.95 million barrels in 2022 to 537.57 million barrels, indicating an improvement in production and security conditions.

Why I married Ned Nwoko despite warnings from my family – Regina Daniels

Nollywood actress, Regina Daniels, has revealed that she married Senator Ned Nwoko despite her family’s strong objections because she genuinely fell in love with him.

In an emotional video shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Regina appealed to Nigerians to stop insulting her mother, Rita Daniels, over her marital crisis, stressing that her decision to marry Nwoko was based purely on love and not greed.

‘The main essence of this video is to please, stop insulting my mom. For some reason, I feel like I owe you all this explanation because I don’t know why everyone is in pain about my life. But I don’t feel like you all are pained from a bad side. You’re in pain because you used your N200 or N500 to buy my CD. I watched my movie as a child, and you all watched me. Like, fine. And it’s okay. I’m in the limelight, so it’s fine. You all have a say, so it’s OK. And that’s why I’m explaining. So please, stop insulting my mom,’ she said.

Describing her mother as ‘the best thing that ever happened’ to her, Regina clarified that she was not driven by financial gain, insisting that her family had warned her against the marriage but she went ahead because of love.

‘She’s the best thing that ever happened to me. She is my god on earth. She’s been strong for seven years. My mom held it down. She tried. You all insulted her. But she tried. It’s me. I’m the one with the coconut head. I’m so ashamed to say I fell in love. But I actually really did. And it’s wild. But I did. Everyone said no. My mom. And you all stop saying I got married out of greed. Excuse me. No. We were not broke. Does that make sense? And secondly, what do you guys think? What money can a man give to a mother to get her child, who practically provides everything in the house? That is, practically, she trained all her children through this child.’

The actress also revealed that the intense pressure and criticism surrounding her decision once made her contemplate suicide.

‘I was a blessing, a gift to my mom. God used me to settle her. And it’s my job to make sure she is forever happy. Because she has suffered for us, she is the best woman on earth. She is. She warned me. My brothers warned me. Everybody warned me, and then I drove out at night. I was going to kill myself if I didn’t marry Ned. Everyone was looking for me. My brothers were fighting, breaking bottles. As I was saying, everyone knew. I went to the police station and said, Arrest me.

‘My family does not want me to marry the love of my life. But I actually did fall in love. It’s, but I did. And I still care and respect him. That’s love. What is love? Care and respect. And the only reason I am not fighting you, Ned, is that I want Munir and Khalifa’s father’s name to be strong. But they can answer mine. They can’t. You have enough kids to answer your name,’ she said.

Despite the turmoil, Regina said she is determined to fight for her children and raise them, with or without Nwoko’s support.

‘My family is actually in turmoil. It’s wild, but we’ll definitely come out of it. So what gave me the courage to make this video? It’s just seeing how my family fights; everyone fights for me. My brothers, mom, sisters, and everybody else are fighting. And to think my brother just started, what’s that thing? It’s a petition. And guys, in less than how many hours, many people signed up. How?

‘Why? But yes, then, that’s what this video means. This video shouldn’t exist in the first place, because I’m too big for it. Okay, I’m going to fight for my children, Ned. I tried to be calm. I tried to let go, but I’ll fight for them. I’ll take them. I’ll train them. I’ll raise them, with or without your support. And you know that, my love, ex-husband.’

This comes after the actress fell out with Ned Nwoko in October. She accused him of physically assaulting her-an allegation the Senator has since denied, claiming her behaviour was influenced by substance abuse.

NSCDC vows tougher action on cyber, infrastructure crimes in FCT

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, Dr Olusola Odumosu, has vowed that henceforth, investigation and prosecution of offenders of critical national information infrastructure (CNII) must be carried out under relevant provisions, Protection of CNII order, 2024.

Odumosu stated this during a one-day internal workshop to acquaint personnel of relevant departments and units of the Command, such as ICT, Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, Intelligence and Investigation, Legal unit and personnel from the Area Commands and Divisions, with the provisions of the Cyber Crimes Acts and Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) order.

The workshop was convened in line with the directive of the Commandant General (CG), Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, following the directive of the office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) on the application of the cyber crimes prohibition, prevention Act, 2015, in the prosecution of offences relating to Critical Information Infrastructure (CNII) as contained in the designation and protection of CNII order, 2024.

He said some individuals apprehended for vandalism or stealing CNII, like fibre optics cables, transmission towers, communication bases and switching stations with other ICT-related infrastructure, are still being charged under conventional laws applicable to theft or malicious damage, which has failed to address the national security, economic and strategic implications of tampering with CNII.

Odumosu observed that CNII comprises networks, systems, and facilities, especially in telecommunications, finance, energy, transportation, and defence, whose disruption could compromise national security, economic and public safety.

While urging the officers to up their game in the protection of national infrastructure, the Commandant said CNII remains one of the core mandates of the Corps, and all hands must be on deck to ensure that critical national assets and infrastructure remain secured and capable of supporting the nation’s growth in this digital era.

‘This gathering is not just a response to security threats but a proactive step towards fostering collaboration, innovation and strategic planning to safeguard our cultural heritage from vandalism.

‘It must be clear that the cybercrime law underscores the fact that attacks are no longer just physical – cutting cables, vandalising installation, but also digital or hybrid system interference, unauthorised access, data tampering,’ he said.

He urged all the participants to cascade the knowledge they have garnered to officers under them to ensure that vandalism is completely obliterated from the capital territory.

Nigeria’s non-interest capital market hits N1.6trn -SEC DG

The Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, has disclosed that Nigeria’s non-interest capital market has grown to a valuation exceeding N1.6 trillion, underscoring its expanding role in deepening financial inclusion and supporting infrastructure development.

Speaking at the 7th African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF) 2025, held in Lagos, Dr. Agama said the growth reflects investors’ confidence and the success of the Commission’s regulatory reforms under the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025.

He stated: ‘The remarkable growth of the non-interest segment in Nigeria, a market now valued at over N1.6 trillion, is clear evidence that when there is an enabling regulatory environment, the market responds with vigour.’

He noted that Nigeria’s sovereign Sukuk programme has raised over N1.4 trillion through seven issuances since 2017, financing the construction and rehabilitation of 124 critical roads covering more than 5,820 kilometres across the country.

Agama added that the recent approval of a $500 million international Sukuk marks the next phase of Nigeria’s efforts to attract ethical financing for infrastructure and economic growth.

He emphasized that the rapid growth of Islamic finance across the continent demonstrates Africa’s readiness to embrace non-interest instruments as a mainstream funding source.

He cited examples from Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Senegal, and Ghana, which are strengthening their legal and policy frameworks to attract Shariah-compliant investments.

Dr. Agama commended Metropolitan Skills for its role in advancing Islamic finance and noted that resolutions from the conference would feed into the Second Nigerian Capital Market Masterplan (2026-2035), as the first plan concludes this year.

He urged stakeholders to continue leveraging Islamic finance as a tool for ethical investment, financial inclusion, and infrastructure renewal, stressing that ‘prosperity without inclusion is not sustainable.’

In her address, the Conference Chair, Ms. Ummahani Ahmad Amin, said that while Islamic finance has made remarkable progress in Nigeria and across Africa, the continent is yet to fully harness its potential as a reliable source of catalytic capital to bridge its annual infrastructure financing gap, estimated at $130 billion to $170 billion.

She noted that although global Islamic financial assets grew by 14.9 percent year-on-year to $3.88 trillion in 2024, Africa’s share remains marginal due to barriers such as underdeveloped market infrastructure, limited liquidity, and low investor education.

‘To enable Sukuk and other Islamic financial instruments to serve as effective drivers of financial intermediation and macro-financial stability, we must first address the barriers that continue to constrain their growth,’ Amin said.

She also highlighted the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping ethical finance, automating compliance, and expanding financial access but cautioned that the technology must be guided by ethical guardrails to sustain trust.

Ms. Amin stressed that collaboration and knowledge-sharing are key to unlocking Africa’s inclusive prosperity, noting that this year’s AICIF theme, ‘Africa Emerging: A Prosperous and Inclusive Outlook,’ reflects optimism about the continent’s ability to drive sustainable and inclusive development.

As part of its commitment to youth empowerment, she announced that the conference, in partnership with the SEC, hosted a pitch competition to support promising startups.

ZannyTecture Recycling Company Limited won in the Social Impact category for turning discarded tyres and PET bottles into eco-friendly products, while BetaLife Health clinched first place in the Technology category with its AI-driven blood supply optimization platform.

Amin also unveiled The Metropolitan Waqf, an initiative aimed at providing access to education for marginalized communities in Nigeria, particularly in areas affected by conflict.

Ondo govt, investors seal $50bn deal to build refinery, free trade zone

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has announced that Ondo State has secured a $50 billion investment agreement with an international consortium under the Sunshine Infrastructure Joint Venture (JV) to transform the state into a major industrial hub in Nigeria.

The consortium includes global partners such as Backbone Infrastructure, MJ Care Investment Finance, China Harbour, and Honeywell OUP. The investment will fund the development of a 500,000-barrels-per-day refinery and a 1,471-hectare Sunshine Free Trade Zone in Ilaje Local Government Area.

The deal follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and the consortium through the Ondo State Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA).

Speaking during the signing of the MoU, Aiyedatiwa described the partnership as a milestone in his administration’s drive for sustainable industrialisation and economic growth.

According to him, ‘this investment marks a new dawn for Ondo State. It will fast-track industrial development, attract more investors and create jobs for our people,’

He assured the investors of his administration’s commitment to transparency, a conducive business climate and full protection of their investments.

Aiyedatiwa noted that his government had been deliberate in implementing policies that promote ease of doing business, adding that the project would stimulate productivity and economic growth across multiple sectors.

The Managing Director of Sunshine Infrastructure JV, Mr Henry Owonka, said the initiative had progressed from conception to execution through consistent engagement with ONDIPA.

He explained that the project’s initial $30 billion valuation was reviewed to $50 billion following an expansion to cover broader infrastructure and community-driven programmes.

‘The Sunshine JV is not just an investment; it’s a development framework that will transform industries, strengthen communities and improve livelihoods,’ Owonka stated.

He said the refinery will supply petroleum products locally and internationally, while its corporate social responsibility (CSR) focuses on education, local employment and infrastructure development in surrounding communities.

He revealed that the investors would introduce social programmes focusing on healthcare, youth empowerment and skills acquisition to ensure inclusive growth.

A representative of one of the partners in the consortium, Afful Clement, said the group had already begun preparations before arriving in Ondo.

He explained that beyond the oil refinery and free trade zone, the investment would drive industrial, agricultural, aviation and healthcare development.

According to him, the aim is not just to reciprocate the state’s support but to ensure a full transformation of Ondo, adding that the consortium’s partners, who had visited project sites, were excited and ready to contribute to the state’s economic growth.

The consortium’s Chairman and former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, who had earlier visited the governor in a separate meeting, was commended for his leadership role in the project, which stakeholders described as a model of credible public-private partnership.

The Joint Venture had secured over $50 billion for the development of a 500,000-barrels-per-day refinery and a 1,471-hectare sunshine free trade zone in Ilaje local government area of the state.

The funding followed the successful execution of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Joint Venture and the state government through the Ondo State Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA).

Present at the event were top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Dr Olajide Adelami, and members of the State Executive Council.

Obasa’s son takes over as Agege LG boss, Tunde Azeez, resigns

The elected chairman of Agege Local Government, Hon. Tunde Azeez Disco, has resigned, citing health challenges which, according to him, are hindering his capacity to discharge his constitutionally assigned duties effectively.

Hon Azeez presented his resignation letter to the leadership of the Agege Legislative Council on Wednesday.

Following his resignation, the leader of the House, Hon. Adeshina Haruna, swore in AbdulGaniyu Vinod, son of the speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa,

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Hon. Haruna commended the former chairman for his commitment to grassroots development.

‘I commend Hon. Disco for his years of selfless service and dedication to the people of Agege. I wish him full recovery and success in his future endeavors,’ Haruna prayed.

He added, ‘Following this development, the council unanimously approved the appointment of Hon. AbdulGaniyu Vinod Obasa as the substantive Chairman of Agege Local Government.

‘The decision reflects the council’s commitment to ensuring stability, continuity, and effective local governance.’

The council reaffirmed its oversight mandate, emphasizing the need for enhanced monitoring and evaluation of ongoing projects across the local government.

Members resolved to strengthen accountability measures to ensure that all developmental initiatives are completed on time, within budget, and in line with community needs.

Reacting to the development, Hon.Rotimi Sulaiman, an aide to the former chairman of Agege Local Government, High Chief AbdulGaniyu Egunjobi, commended Azeez for the decision to resign.

He said, ‘Hon. Tunde Azeez has been long sick and his decision to resign and devote his attention to his health rather than being weighed by the responsibility of that office is the wise decision any sane person should take.

‘The beneficiary of that excellent decision, Abdulganiyu Vinod Obasa, is a visionary young man who, in the last few months of Azeez’s absence, has demonstrated uncommon capacity.’

49 years after, Ogun govt set to rebuild legislative, commissioners’ quarters

The Ogun State Government has announced plans to rebuild the State House of Assembly Complex (Legislative Quarters) and the Commissioners’ quarters, all within the precinct of Ibara Government Reservation Area, in Abeokuta.

This is part of efforts to modernise critical government infrastructure and ensure safe, functional housing for top public officials in the state.

The decision, according to a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Housing, Hon Jamiu Omoniyi, followed extensive structural assessments by the Ministry of Housing, which revealed that the existing buildings constructed in 1976 have become severely dilapidated and unsafe after over five decades of use.

Despite multiple renovation attempts over the years, the structures have continued to deteriorate, resulting in high maintenance costs with minimal improvement.

Omoniyi said the reconstruction project was necessary to align the State’s public infrastructure with modern safety, design, and efficiency standards.

He explained that the decision was guided by the National Building Code of Nigeria (NBC, 2006), which stipulates that public buildings must meet minimum standards of safety and habitability.

According to him, structures that have exceeded their useful life-typically around 50 years-require either major rehabilitation or complete reconstruction, especially where repairs have become uneconomical.

‘The existing Legislative and Commissioners’ Quarters were constructed in 1976, nearly 50 years ago. Over the years, successive governments have spent enormous sums on repairs and maintenance, but these have yielded diminishing results. A technical evaluation conducted by the Ministry confirmed that the structures are no longer safe for habitation. In line with global best practices and the provisions of the National Building Code, the State Government has chosen to rebuild these facilities for long-term sustainability,’ Omoniyi said.

The Commissioner added that the new developments would be modern, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly, with upgraded utilities, improved spatial design, and smart infrastructure to enhance functionality.

He said the design would also reflect the State’s broader commitment to urban renewal and environmental responsibility.

Omoniyi further clarified that the initiative was not an act of extravagance but a necessary investment in public safety and administrative efficiency.

He explained that the move was based on foresight and prudence, noting that delaying reconstruction could expose officials living in the quarters to greater risks.

‘If we fail to act now, successive governments will face even greater financial and safety challenges. This decision is therefore about foresight, prudence, and the responsible management of public assets,’ he stated.

The rebuilding project, he noted, is a component of the Ogun State Urban and Housing Renewal Master Plan, which aims to replace obsolete infrastructure with durable, cost-effective, and sustainable developments that meet modern needs.

The State Government assured that all processes related to the reconstruction would be transparent, accountable, and guided by due process, with priority given to local contractors, artisans, and suppliers to boost job creation and stimulate the local economy.

Omoniyi reaffirmed that the Dapo Abiodun-led administration remains committed to delivering people-centred infrastructure that supports efficient governance and reflects Ogun State’s vision of growth and modernisation.

It will be recalled that in 2024, the Ogun State government launched a regeneration initiative for the Ibara Housing Estate, aimed at transforming the area into a modern and vibrant urban centre.

It began implementing infrastructure upgrades within the Ibara GRA to enhance exclusivity for residents, including road repairs, drainage and culvert maintenance, electrification and water supply upgrades, with the regeneration initiative further expanded to other GRAs in the state, including Sagamu, Igbeba in Ijebu Ode, and Ilaro.

It segmented the development into clusters, with Cluster 1 involving three hectares of land g developed into a thriving urban centre with 35 duplexes.

The area was further subdivided into individual plots, with around 60 plots allocated for 12 semi-detached units and 47 fully detached units are planned.