The Lagos State Government has declared an immediate halt to planning approvals along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road corridor.

In a statement released on Monday in Alausa, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, announced the decision.

Olumide explained that pausing planning approvals was essential to mitigate the project’s effects on the state’s Physical Development Plans for the region.

He noted that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project has notably disrupted the recently finalized Ode-Omi Action Area Plan, as well as the in-progress Ibeju-Lekki Model City Plan and Lekki Comprehensive Master Plan, which are at different stages of development.

“As a result of the effects of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road on our Development Plans, it is germane to review the situation on ground and align it with the Development Plans to forestall any further distortion now or in the nearest future.

“In this connection, it is equally important to temporarily suspend Planning Approvals in the axis until further notice, “ the commissioner said.

Olumide stressed that the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority has been instructed to enforce this suspension until further directives are issued.

He reaffirmed the state’s dedication to fostering an organized, livable, inclusive, and sustainable built environment, while expressing confidence that Lagos is strategically positioned to capitalize on the numerous advantages of the inter-state Coastal Highway.

As countries across the globe commemorated World Environment Day, the ECOWAS Commission and Nigeria’s Ministry of Environment partnered to draw attention to the pressing issue of plastic pollution throughout West Africa.

The celebration, which took place on Tuesday in Abuja, embraced this year’s theme, “Together, We Can Beat Plastic Pollution.” The event emphasized the importance of regional unity, environmental accountability, and the need for concrete action beyond mere rhetoric.

Representing the ECOWAS Commission, the Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Massandje Toure-Litse, delivered a goodwill message, underlining the importance of the event within the context of ECOWAS’s Jubilee Year, which celebrates five decades of regional cooperation.

“It is fitting that in this landmark year, we reaffirm our commitment to a clean, resilient, and sustainable environment for future generations.”

“Plastic pollution is not only a global menace but a regional and national crisis.

“There is growing recognition that plastic pollution is a transboundary problem that requires a coordinated regional response,” Toure-Litse said.

Citing World Bank data, Yao Bernard Koffi, Acting Director of Environment and Natural Resources representing the commissioner, stated that West Africa generates approximately eight million metric tonnes of plastic waste each year, with over 80 percent mismanaged, leading to severe impacts on human health, marine ecosystems, and economic stability.

To combat this issue, she highlighted that ECOWAS introduced a regional plastic management regulation in 2023, encouraging member states to align their laws and adopt effective practices.

“The ECOWAS Commission is supporting Member States to harmonise environmental standards and promote green industrialisation,” she said.

She recognized promising regional efforts, noting Ghana and Nigeria’s progress in circular economy initiatives, as well as Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire’s implementation of plastic bans and producer responsibility programs.

However, Toure-Litse emphasized the need for greater regional collaboration.

“Tackling plastic pollution is a test of our resolve to act together as governments, private sector actors, civil society, and citizens,” the commissioner stated.

She urged stakeholders to fund eco-innovation, back community-driven waste initiatives, enforce environmental regulations, and support youth-led climate efforts.

“The ECOWAS commission stands ready to work side-by-side with Nigeria and all partners to beat plastic pollution not tomorrow, but today,” she concluded.

At the event, Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal addressed attendees with a sense of urgency and reflection, emphasizing the environmental, health, and economic challenges posed by plastic waste.

“Plastic pollution is a very serious issue that we must confront, and we must fight honestly.

“Linked to plastic pollution is chemical pollution. Climate change may be the most visible threat, but chemical waste is equally insidious and must also be addressed,” Lawal declared.

Lawal vividly described how improper waste disposal exacerbates flooding in Nigerian cities.

“Every minute, plastic waste is being dumped in our oceans, rivers, and land systems. We are blocking waterways, and that leads to flooding. Water must find its way. If you obstruct it, it will pass through your homes, your farms, your schools,” he said.

In a direct appeal to architects, he noted, “You are part of our problem. You design and approve construction on waterways. That must stop if we are serious about ending flooding.”

Lawal reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication, highlighting initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda, such as the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management and the Extended Producer Responsibility Programme.

The minister highlighted that proactive measures are being implemented to combat pollution comprehensively.

“Reduce, reuse, recycle, these three R’s are not just slogans. They are our path forward,” the minister stated.

Lawal pointed to the financial benefits of recycling, referencing a recent trip to Ghana where young people are gaining employment through plastic collection initiatives.

“This catastrophe of pollution can be turned into a resource. It can be good business for our youth,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of working together across government ministries, private sectors, and educational institutions to promote environmental awareness.

“We must create environmental clubs in schools. We must reach the youth. They have more years to live on this planet than us and they must be equipped to protect it.”

Looking back on efforts made and looking ahead to future actions, Lawal urged every Nigerian to embrace a united sense of duty.

“Throughout history, we have searched for alternatives to earth. But till today, there is none. We must protect what we have.

“Let this day serve as a wake-up call. Let us become ambassadors of environmental stewardship.

“Together, let us walk toward a Nigeria where our waterways are clean, our streets are free of plastic waste, and our ecosystems are protected for generations yet to come,” Lawal added.

The Ministry of Environment, in partnership with ECOWAS @50, hosted the event.

The gathering brought together top government officials, civil society groups, youth organisations, and international partners, all affirming a united front in the fight against plastic pollution—one of the region’s most urgent environmental issues.

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has appealed to the Lagos State Government to reduce the electronic call-up system parking charge from ₦12,500 to ₦2,500.

This appeal was made by IPMAN’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Chinedu Ukadike, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos.

Ukadike explained that the request is essential to prevent a possible increase in petrol prices at filling stations.

According to NAN, the Lagos State Government, through the Electronic Call-up Systems Company, recently raised the parking fee for trucks from ₦2,500 to ₦12,500.

The hike in charges led to a protest on Monday, during which truck drivers halted operations, disrupting supply from the Dangote Refinery and Lekki Deep Seaport.

Ukadike noted that stakeholders at a recent meeting collectively agreed that the fee should revert to ₦2,500, describing the current charge as too steep.

“The imposed amount is exorbitant and unbearable for marketers. It will inevitably lead to an increase in the pump price of petrol,” Ukadike stated.

He stressed that their primary objective is to maintain energy stability and national security.

At the same time, truck drivers under the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and Petroleum Tanker Drivers also staged a protest along the Lekki-Epe axis.

NARTO’s National President, Yusuf Othman, confirmed that loading operations have been temporarily suspended in protest against the new charge.

“We’ve not declared a strike, only suspended loading at Lekki Port and Dangote Refinery because ₦12,500 per truck is too high,” he said.

Othman further explained that while the group supports the use of electronic call-up systems, the pricing must be affordable and practical.

He also mentioned that talks are ongoing with officials from the Lagos State Government to reach a mutually acceptable resolution.

On Monday, Vice President Kashim Shettima announced Nigeria’s readiness for global business opportunities during the opening of the Nigeria 2025 Public-Private Partnership Summit at the State House in Abuja.

The summit, hosted by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, convened government and private sector leaders to discuss strategies for addressing Nigeria’s $2.3 trillion infrastructure deficit.

Representing President Bola Tinubu, Shettima emphasized, “We are not seeking investors to carry burdens; we are opening opportunities to create value. We want long-term partners ready to bridge our infrastructure gap with purpose, precision, and integrity.”

He highlighted that Nigeria cannot achieve a modern economy with outdated infrastructure and noted that depending solely on government funds for major projects is no longer viable.

Shettima pointed to the Tinubu administration’s reforms, including liberalizing the foreign exchange market, eliminating fuel subsidies, and bolstering the ICRC to encourage investment.

He remarked, “Policies alone don’t generate megawatts or build roads. What we need is collective action.”

The Vice President explained that the National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (2020–2043) aims to increase Nigeria’s infrastructure stock from 30–35% of GDP to at least 70% by 2043.

With a population exceeding 230 million, projected to reach 440 million by 2050, Shettima underscored Nigeria’s vast market potential, stating, “One out of every four Black people is a Nigerian. There is no African market like this.”

He encouraged investors to prioritize long-term value and meaningful impact.

Shettima urged, “Let this summit not be remembered for kind speeches; we’ve had those for decades, but for bankable projects, signed deals, and enduring progress.”

ICRC Director General Jobson Ewalefoh, in his opening remarks, reiterated the government’s commitment to bridging the infrastructure gap through strategic public-private partnerships.

Addressing the summit’s theme, “Unlocking Nigeria’s Potential: The Role of PPPs in Delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Ewalefoh emphasized the importance of PPPs in driving sustainable development.

He highlighted ongoing initiatives like the Highway Development and Management Initiative, the Egini Medical Infrastructure Scheme, and the Dasin Hausa Dam as evidence of progress.

Ewalefoh affirmed, “ICRC is committed to ensuring that all PPP projects are legally compliant, economically viable, and socially impactful.”

He praised President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their focus on infrastructure and private-sector-driven growth, while also recognizing the contributions of partners such as AfDB, NESG, Afreximbank, IFC, and Africa50.

The Federal Government has launched the official portal for the 2025 National Youth Conference, popularly known as the Youth Confab.

Slated to host a staggering 36,000 participants from across Nigeria and the diaspora, the initiative promises more than dialogue. It offers young Nigerians a seat at the policymaking table.

Themed “Next Gen Nigeria: Crafting Solutions, Owning the Future,” the Youth Confab is structured as a multi-stage national movement that goes beyond the traditional conference model. It seeks to mobilise the creativity, energy, and insight of Nigerian youth towards real policy development and implementation.

“This conference will provide young Nigerians from every ward, community, state, and the diaspora the opportunity to unite, engage and reshape the future of our nation,”
 Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande.

What’s The Conference All About?

The Youth Confab isn’t just a gathering it’s a nationwide consultative process. It kicks off with virtual engagements for Nigerians in the diaspora, ensuring no voice is left behind. This will be followed by 360 constituency consultations across Nigeria, feeding into zonal consultations within the six geopolitical regions.

The final act will be a national conference in Abuja, where curated recommendations from the consultations will be presented to government leaders.

The discussions will focus on six critical areas:

• Governance, Leadership, and Political Participation
• Economic Transformation, Entrepreneurship, and Job Creation
• Education and Skills for the Future
• Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation
• Climate Change and Energy Transition
• Social Inclusion and Security Who Can Apply?

If you’re between the ages of 18 and 35, whether a student, artisan, entrepreneur, creative, or professional in Nigeria or in the diaspora. This is your opportunity. Youth organisations, student unions, community-based groups, and even statutory youth bodies are all encouraged to register via the newly launched portal.

To ensure inclusivity, 90% of the delegates will be under 35, while the remaining 10% will comprise older participants to foster intergenerational collaboration.

A 50:50 gender balance will be maintained, and provisions have been made for persons with disabilities and marginalized communities, according to the National Planning Committee Chairman, Olubunmi Olusanya.

“The selection process will be merit-based and carefully structured to balance grassroots inclusion, sectoral expertise, and regional diversity,”
— Olubunmi Olusanya, Chairman, National Planning Committee.

Beyond the Talk: Turning Resolutions into Action
One of the most compelling features of the Youth Confab is its commitment to tangible outcomes.

According to Mr. Olusanya, resolutions from the conference will lead to:

• Administrative actions, including policy reforms or presidential directives.
• Legislative actions, involving new or amended laws.
• Where needed, constitutional changes.

To track and enforce accountability, a Multi-Stakeholder Youth Confab Task Force will be created.

This group comprising representatives from government, youth-led groups, civil society, and the private sector will oversee implementation.

There’s also a plan to launch a Youth Confab Impact Index, which will monitor how far resolutions translate into real-world results.

A youth-led monitoring and accountability framework is also being developed to ensure that post-conference promises are not just paper commitments.

What Does This Mean For Nigerian Youths?

This isn’t just another government event. For millions of young Nigerians often dismissed as “leaders of tomorrow”, this conference represents a bold new chance to lead today. It invites young minds to bring their challenges and solutions to the centre of national discourse and co-create policies that affect their lives.

Portal for registration is now live.
To join the movement, participate in consultations, or register as a delegate, visit the official National Youth Conference 2025 portal.

The Federal Government has released N8.6 billion to clear pension arrears for 148,625 retirees under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS), as part of efforts to execute the N32,000 pension increase approved by President Bola Tinubu in 2024.

In a statement on Monday, Olugbenga Ajayi, Head of Corporate Communications at the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), confirmed the disbursement.

The payment benefits retirees from various sectors, including the Civil Service, Parastatals, Police, Customs, Immigration, and Prisons Pension Departments. PTAD had earlier completed payments in the first phase of the increment, which increased pensions by 20 to 28 per cent starting January 2024.

A total of N5.7 billion was disbursed to 59,342 qualified pensioners under the Parastatals’ Pensions Department. Another N2.3 billion was paid to 71,084 eligible retirees under the Civil Service Pension Department. The Police Pension Department accounted for N310 million, which was distributed to 9,579 pensioners, while N276 million was allocated to 8,620 beneficiaries under the Customs, Immigration, and now Correctional Service Pension Department.

Announcing the disbursement, the Executive Secretary of PTAD, Tolulope A. Odunaiya, reiterated “the Federal Government’s commitment towards the full settlement of the outstanding balance accruing from the increment.”

She also emphasized “the unflinching determination of the Federal Government to proceed with its programmes aimed at improving the welfare of pensioners in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The Debt Management Office (DMO), acting for the Federal Government (FG), has announced a N50 billion Green Bond offering.

The Director-General of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Ms. Patience Oniha, informed investors at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos yesterday that the funds would be allocated to various climate-friendly initiatives across the country, including renewable energy, afforestation, dam projects, and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) development.

The Green Bond has a five-year term and will be priced in line with the FGN Savings Bond, which is actively traded in Nigeria’s capital market.

The Director-General emphasized the instrument’s importance, stating that all proceeds would fund projects aimed at reducing the impact of climate change in Nigeria.

She stated, “It is tied to the global policy on Climate Change and looking after the environmental because Nigeria is committed to the global agreements on Climate Change.”

She highlighted Nigeria’s leadership in issuing Sovereign Green Bonds, noting that the country was the first in Africa to do so, raising N10.69 billion in 2017 and N15 billion in 2019. Oniha said the N25.69 billion raised from the earlier two series went into supporting renewables, afforestation, education, and micro-utilities.

“The government continues to mobilize domestic and international climate finance to scale up mitigation and adaptation efforts,” she added.

In response to journalists’ questions, Oniha expressed her Office’s readiness to issue Green Bonds regularly, but noted that such issuances would depend on provisions in the federal government’s budget.

She encouraged other corporate entities to follow the federal government’s lead in issuing Green Bonds, emphasizing that such efforts are essential for effectively addressing the various challenges of climate change facing the nation.

Oniha revealed that investment in the N50 billion Sovereign Green Bond would require a minimum subscription of N10 million, with additional investments in multiples of N1 million.

In her presentation, Dr. Iniobong Awe, Director of Climate Change at the Federal Ministry of Environment, highlighted the serious threat of desert encroachment in Northern Nigeria, which is impacting both people and livestock.

She affirmed the federal government’s commitment to the Climate Change Act of 2021 and the goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2060. This commitment, she noted, is backed by key policies including the Nigerian Carbon Market Initiative, the Green Bond Initiative, the National Council on Climate Change, and the Renewable Energy Policy.