PHOTOS: NDLEA Destroys Illicit Drugs Worth N301bn in Lagos, Warns Traffickers

 The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed 329,865.585 kilogrammes of illicit drugs valued at an estimated N301.05 billion in Lagos.

The destruction exercise was carried out on Monday at Navy Town, Ojo, following an order of the Federal High Court in Lagos.

According to a statement issued by Femi Babafemi, NDLEA spokesperson, the destroyed drugs comprised substances seized in concluded cases that were not contested, as well as abandoned consignments recovered by the agency.

The Lagos Command accounted for the largest portion of the seized substances, with 246,864.535 kilogrammes recovered between April 2025 and May 2026.

The remaining 83,001.05 kilogrammes were seized by the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Tincan and Apapa Strategic Commands, Marine Command and a special operations unit operating in Lagos.

The substances destroyed included cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, cannabis varieties such as Canadian Loud and skunk, ephedrine, tramadol, codeine syrup, other opioids and khat leaves.

Speaking during the exercise, NDLEA Chairman Mohamed Buba Marwa said the destruction demonstrated the government’s determination to prevent illicit drug networks from sustaining their operations.

Marwa warned that the consequences of drug trafficking went beyond the substances themselves, noting that the illegal trade affects families, communities, public health and national security.

He further linked the illicit drug trade to organised crime, terrorism and violent extremism, stressing that intercepting large consignments of drugs was therefore an important part of Nigeria’s broader security efforts.

The NDLEA chairman also warned drug traffickers against operating with a sense of impunity, as the agency continues to intensify efforts to disrupt the supply and distribution of illicit substances across the country.

The destruction of the drugs represents one of the agency’s major disposal exercises involving seized and abandoned narcotics in Lagos.

The NDLEA said its operations would continue as part of efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and protect communities from the consequences of illicit drug abuse and distribution.

Photo Credited: The Cable

Video: Family Seeks Medical Direction for Veteran Actor Taiwo Hassan Amid Cancer Battle

 

The daughters of veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, have appealed for urgent medical assistance after revealing that their father is battling Stage 4 cancer.

The actor’s two daughters made the disclosure in separate video posts shared on social media, where they called on Nigerians and well-meaning individuals to help the family find qualified medical experts and advanced treatment options for their father.

According to the daughters, the family only became aware of their father’s health condition about four weeks ago.

They explained that their immediate concern is not financial assistance but finding the right medical direction, including reputable hospitals, cancer specialists and advanced treatment centres that can review his medical records and advise on possible treatment options.

The family is particularly seeking connections to oncology specialists and standard medical facilities in Nigeria or anywhere in the world where the actor’s case can receive proper medical attention.

The daughters appealed to anyone with useful contacts within the medical community to come forward and assist the family at this critical time.

They stressed that they are not currently asking members of the public for money, but are seeking access to the right medical professionals and facilities that can help them understand the available treatment options for the veteran actor.

Taiwo Hassan, popularly called Ogogo, is a respected figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, particularly known for his longstanding contributions to Yoruba-language cinema.

The development has prompted calls from fans, colleagues and well-wishers for Nigerians to rally around the veteran actor and his family as they seek urgent medical guidance.

Anyone with credible information about reputable oncology centres, cancer specialists or advanced treatment facilities capable of reviewing his medical files and offering treatment options is urged to reach out to the family.

At this difficult moment, the family is appealing for medical connections, expert advice and every legitimate avenue that could give the veteran actor access to the best possible care.

Video: https://x.com/shemariahmedia/status/2089479328153083970?s=46

Photos: Lagos Officials Discover Makeshift Clinic Along Lagos-Badagry Expressway

Lagos State environmental enforcement officials have uncovered a makeshift clinic operating from a roadside shanty along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, where a patient was reportedly found receiving treatment.

The discovery was made around Barracks Bus Stop during a multi-agency enforcement operation targeting illegal structures and roadside shanties along the major highway.

The operation was carried out by the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Lagos State Task Force and other enforcement agencies.

The team, led by the LAGESC Corps Marshal, Major Olaniyi O. Cole (rtd.), reportedly came across the improvised medical facility while clearing the area.

According to the information available, officials found a patient receiving treatment inside the makeshift facility, raising concerns over the operation of an apparent medical facility in an unapproved roadside structure.

The discovery forms part of the wider enforcement exercise aimed at removing illegal structures and shanties along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

The Lagos-Badagry corridor has witnessed several enforcement activities in recent times as authorities intensify efforts to clear illegal structures and improve safety and movement along the major highway.

Further details on the identity of the operator, the nature of treatment being administered and possible sanctions were not immediately available.

Photos:

Lagos Surpasses Global Exclusive Breastfeeding Target, Seeks Earlier Breastfeeding for Newborns

Lagos State says it has exceeded the global exclusive breastfeeding target while seeking to improve early breastfeeding initiation.

The Lagos State Government says it has exceeded the global target for exclusive breastfeeding, recording a rate of 57.4 per cent, while pledging renewed efforts to improve the number of babies breastfed within the first hour after birth.

The milestone was announced on Tuesday during a press briefing at the Lagos State Ministry of Health in Alausa as part of activities marking the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, said the state’s exclusive breastfeeding rate now exceeds the World Health Organization’s benchmark of 50 per cent. However, she noted that only 14 per cent of newborns in Lagos are breastfed within the first hour of delivery, a figure the government hopes to significantly improve.

According to Ogunyemi, breastfeeding remains one of the most effective and affordable ways to improve child survival, reduce infant illnesses and ensure healthy development during the early stages of life.

She explained that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding until the age of two, provides infants with the nutrients needed for healthy physical growth, brain development and stronger immunity.

“The importance of breastfeeding as a child survival strategy cannot be overemphasised. Breast milk is free, nutrient-rich, readily available and contributes to healthier children while strengthening the bond between mother and child,” she said.

This year’s World Breastfeeding Week is being observed under the theme “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” with global attention focused on expanding proven breastfeeding practices that improve maternal and child health.

Ogunyemi described the theme as particularly relevant given Nigeria’s current economic realities, noting that breastfeeding offers families a cost-effective and sustainable means of ensuring adequate nutrition for infants without relying heavily on expensive formula feeding.

She urged husbands, grandparents, employers, religious leaders, healthcare workers and community members to actively support nursing mothers, stressing that successful breastfeeding depends not only on mothers but also on the support system around them.

The Special Adviser disclosed that Lagos has continued to strengthen its Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN) programme through regular training of healthcare workers, breastfeeding counselling, nutrition education and enforcement of regulations governing the marketing of breast-milk substitutes.

According to her, the programme is currently being implemented across all 334 Primary Health Centres, 29 secondary health facilities and the state’s tertiary healthcare institution, supported by an effective referral system.

She expressed concern over persistent misconceptions surrounding colostrum, the thick yellowish breast milk produced immediately after childbirth, explaining that many mothers still wrongly believe it should be discarded despite its proven health benefits.

Colostrum contains antibodies and nutrients that help protect newborns from infections during the first days of life and is widely regarded by health experts as a baby’s first natural vaccine.

To address the low rate of early breastfeeding initiation, Ogunyemi said the state is intensifying the training of midwives and healthcare professionals in both public and private hospitals to ensure mothers begin breastfeeding within the first hour after delivery.

Responding to questions from journalists, she also dismissed the widespread belief that mothers who undergo caesarean section deliveries cannot breastfeed immediately.

“A caesarean section is not a barrier to breastfeeding. Whether a mother delivers vaginally or through surgery, breastfeeding should begin as soon as possible, ideally within the first hour after birth,” she said.

Health experts say improving early initiation of breastfeeding remains critical to reducing neonatal deaths and strengthening child survival outcomes across Nigeria.

The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining breastfeeding awareness campaigns and expanding access to maternal nutrition services as part of broader efforts to improve public health indicators across the state.

Residents Raise Alarm as Overflowing Refuse Takes Over Gate–Ayobo Road in Alimosho

Residents of Gate–Ayobo in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State have called on the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to urgently evacuate heaps of refuse that have accumulated along a major road in the community.

The overflowing waste, which has remained unattended for days, has obstructed pedestrian movement, forcing residents to navigate through narrow spaces or walk dangerously close to moving vehicles while attempting to cross the road.

Residents who spoke with Shemariah Media described the situation as both a public health concern and a safety risk, warning that the refuse could encourage the spread of diseases if immediate action is not taken.

Some residents expressed frustration over the persistent accumulation of waste despite Lagos State’s efforts to improve environmental sanitation through LAWMA.

“The refuse has become too much. It is now difficult for people, especially school children, elderly residents and traders, to cross the road safely. Apart from the offensive odour, it is becoming an eyesore,” one resident said.

Others noted that the waste has also affected nearby businesses, with customers avoiding the area because of the unpleasant smell and unsanitary conditions.

Environmental experts have consistently warned that prolonged accumulation of refuse can attract rodents, flies and other disease-carrying pests while clogging drainage channels, increasing the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall.

Residents are now appealing to LAWMA and the Alimosho Local Government authorities to immediately clear the refuse and implement more regular waste collection in the area to prevent a recurrence.

They also urged members of the public to dispose of their waste properly and avoid indiscriminate dumping, stressing that maintaining a clean environment requires both effective government services and responsible community participation.

As of the time of filing this report, LAWMA had not issued an official statement regarding the condition of the refuse dump at Gate–Ayobo.

Video link: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS4AhdPu8/

NDLEA Opens N480bn Meth Lab to Journalists as Court Inspects Massive Ogun Drug Factory

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Thursday granted journalists access to a massive industrial-scale methamphetamine laboratory uncovered in Ogun State, offering a rare look inside what the agency describes as one of Nigeria’s largest illicit drug production facilities.

The laboratory, located deep inside a remote forest in Ijebu Ode, was dismantled by NDLEA operatives in May after an extensive operation. The agency estimates the facility and its equipment to be worth approximately ₦480 billion.

The inspection formed part of ongoing legal proceedings against suspects linked to the illegal drug factory.

During the visit, suspects connected to the case were brought to the site by officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) for a special court hearing conducted within the premises of the laboratory.

The proceedings were presided over by Justice Musa Kakaki of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Justice Kakaki, accompanied by prosecutors, defence counsel and other court officials, toured the facility to examine the crime scene and inspect exhibits tendered by the NDLEA as evidence in the prosecution.

The visit enabled the court to observe firsthand the scale of the clandestine operation and the sophisticated equipment allegedly used in the production of methamphetamine.

Among the items displayed during the inspection were industrial cooking cylinders, large chemical storage drums and tanks, concrete ovens, measuring scales, welding helmets, silicone sealants, nose masks and bags of caustic soda.

Investigators said the equipment formed part of a highly organised production line capable of manufacturing large quantities of methamphetamine for distribution within and outside Nigeria.

The NDLEA has described the discovery as a major breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against organised drug trafficking and the establishment of clandestine drug laboratories across the country.

Officials say the operation highlights the increasing sophistication of drug syndicates operating in Nigeria and underscores the agency’s determination to dismantle illegal drug production networks.

The case remains before the Federal High Court as the prosecution continues to present evidence against the defendants.

The NDLEA has reiterated its commitment to working with other security agencies and the judiciary to ensure those involved in the manufacture and trafficking of illicit drugs are brought to justice.

Credited: The Cable

FG Unveils Five Flagship Programmes to Boost Human Capital Development

The Federal Government has launched five flagship programmes aimed at improving the quality of life of Nigerians through investments in education, healthcare, economic empowerment and community development.

The initiatives were unveiled in Abuja during the Presidential Launch of the Federal Government’s Flagship Programmes, with Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Oyedele said the programmes reflect the administration’s commitment to building a stronger economy by investing in people and expanding opportunities for citizens across the country.

According to him, the initiatives are designed to strengthen human capital development, enhance community resilience and promote inclusive economic growth.

He noted that the programmes will focus on equipping Nigerians with the skills, support and opportunities needed to improve their livelihoods while helping vulnerable communities become more resilient.

Oyedele said the launch marks another step in the Federal Government’s efforts to implement policies that directly impact citizens, adding that sustainable development can only be achieved through strategic investments in people.

The Federal Government expressed optimism that the flagship programmes would accelerate national development, reduce poverty and create a more inclusive economy capable of delivering long-term benefits to Nigerians.

Further details on the five flagship programmes and their implementation are expected to be released by the government.

Photo Story: Mahama Donates Relief Materials to Flood Victims Through Mamobi Polyclinic

Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has donated relief materials to the Mamobi Polyclinic in Accra to support victims affected by the devastating floods that swept through parts of the Greater Accra Region and other coastal communities on June 29.

The donation was made as part of ongoing efforts to assist families and individuals displaced or impacted by the disaster, which caused widespread damage to homes, businesses and public infrastructure.

The relief items were received at the Mamobi Polyclinic, where they are expected to support affected residents as recovery efforts continue.

The June 29 floods left several communities under water, disrupted livelihoods and renewed calls for long-term measures to address flooding in vulnerable parts of Ghana.

Mahama’s gesture has been welcomed by many residents, with the donation seen as a contribution toward easing the hardship faced by victims as they rebuild their lives.

Nurses Demand Justice for Slain Nursing Student Vivian Chilaka

 

Vivian Chilaka

The Elegant Nurses Forum (ENF) has condemned the killing of Miss Vivian Chilaka, a student of the College of Nursing Sciences, Alor, Anambra State, and called for a thorough investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Nurse Thomas Abiodun Olamide, the Forum described the incident as a tragic loss to the nursing profession, Anambra State, and Nigeria as a whole.

According to the statement, Vivian was allegedly stabbed multiple times and later found dead within her residence. The Forum said a knife believed to be connected to the incident was reportedly recovered near her room.

The organization noted that circumstances surrounding the incident have raised several questions, including reports that a dog within the compound, known for barking at strangers, did not react on the night of the attack.

Beyond the circumstances of her death, the Forum highlighted Vivian’s academic achievements and personal struggles, describing her as an exceptionally brilliant student with a promising future.

According to the statement, Vivian lost her mother about ten years ago and her father four years ago, leaving her to help support her two younger brothers. Her academic excellence reportedly attracted the support of a sponsor based abroad, who encouraged her to pursue a career in nursing.

The Forum further disclosed that during her matriculation at the College of Nursing Sciences, Alor, Vivian won six out of seven academic awards presented to outstanding students, earning recognition as one of the institution’s brightest students.

The group said her death has shattered the dreams of her family, colleagues, lecturers, sponsor, and the nursing community.

While extending condolences to her relatives and associates, the Forum called on security agencies to conduct a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the case.

The organization also demanded the arrest and prosecution of all individuals connected to the incident and urged women’s rights groups, civil society organizations, and human rights advocates to monitor the case to ensure justice is served.

In addition, the Forum called on the Anambra State Government to immortalize Vivian through a scholarship or academic excellence award in her name. It also urged the government to support her family by covering burial expenses and providing educational assistance to her two younger brothers.

“The memory of Vivian Chilaka deserves justice. Her family deserves justice. The Nursing community deserves justice,” the statement said.

The Forum maintained that the case must not become another unresolved violent crime and called on authorities to act swiftly in identifying and prosecuting those responsible.