The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has successfully restored bulk power supply to Eko and Ikeja Electricity Distribution Companies, enabling them to resume full electricity distribution across Lagos State.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s Director of Public Affairs, power restoration followed the completion of repairs on a damaged section of the 330-kilovolt Osogbo-Omotosho transmission line. The repairs, which covered towers 420 to 422, were finalized at 8:55 PM on March 15, 2025.
The power disruption was triggered by a major fault on the Omotoso-Ikeja West 330kV transmission line, which occurred on March 11, causing a significant drop of 350 megawatts in bulk electricity supply to Lagos. The line snap, which initially occurred on March 9, led to widespread load shedding across the state.
With the repairs now completed, Mbah confirmed that normal bulk transmission has resumed, and the load-shedding issue has been resolved.
“The Transmission Company of Nigeria announces the restoration of normal bulk power supply to Eko and Ikeja Electricity Distribution Companies for onward distribution to their customers in Lagos State.
The successful repair of the 330kV Osogbo-Omotosho line, between towers 420 and 422, has fully restored lost power, stopping the load shedding caused by the fault.”
TCN expressed appreciation for the Lagos State Government, electricity distribution companies, and consumers for their patience and cooperation during the power outage.
Ghana’s President John Mahama’s verified X account was compromised for 48 hours, during which cybercriminals used it to promote a fraudulent cryptocurrency initiative, his spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday.
The breach began on Saturday and was noticed by Sunday when the hackers started posting endorsements for Solanafrica. These posts falsely claimed that the project was “led by Ghana’s President John Mahama to make payments across Africa free using the Solana blockchain.”
The hackers encouraged Mahama’s followers to invest in the scheme, falsely presenting it as an effort to revolutionize financial transactions across the continent. Although the fraudulent posts were deleted after Mahama’s team became aware of the breach, the account continued to share crypto-related content, including teasers about a new memecoin launch.
“The President’s X account was compromised, and we have taken action to regain control,” said spokesman Kwakye Ofosu on Tuesday. “The account has now been fully restored, and we urge the public to disregard any suspicious cryptocurrency-related posts from the handle.”
This incident raises alarms over the increasing number of crypto scams in Africa, where digital assets are growing in popularity, but regulatory measures remain weak. Scammers often hijack verified accounts to push fake investment schemes.
“My team has restored my account, working with the X support team. Thank you for your inquiries and offers to assist,” Mahama posted on his X account on Tuesday.
Earlier incidents have also highlighted the vulnerability of prominent figures to similar attacks. In July 2023, the X account of South African opposition leader Julius Malema was hacked to promote a fraudulent token project. Similarly, in 2022, Nigerian businessman Tony Elumelu’s account was hijacked, flooding his timeline with fake crypto giveaways.
Cybersecurity experts emphasize the need for high-profile figures to strengthen security measures. “Prominent personalities, especially those in government, need to implement stringent backend security checks,” said Abubakar Issaka, a cybersecurity expert at Ghana’s Centre for Cyberwatch and Data Protection. “Two-factor authentication alone is no longer enough. They must also monitor login activities, limit third-party app access, and have a dedicated team ensuring 24/7 surveillance of their accounts to detect and neutralize any suspicious activity before it escalates.”
Solana, a cryptocurrency with lower transaction fees than Bitcoin and Ethereum, has gained popularity in Africa and is increasingly used by scammers to deceive investors. Ofosu confirmed that authorities had taken necessary steps to prevent further misuse of Mahama’s account.
St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated annually on March 17th, commemorates the death of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint. Though rooted in religious observance, the holiday has transformed into a lively celebration of Irish heritage. It’s a day filled with parades, traditional Irish music and dance, special foods, and a sea of green, representing the Emerald Isle.
Who is St. Patrick?
Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was born in Roman Britain near the end of the fourth century. At the age of 16, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken to Ireland as a slave. During his 6 years in captivity, he worked as a shepherd and turned to Christianity for solace.
According to his writings, he experienced a divine message in a dream instructing him to escape, which he did, returning to his family in Britain.
Afterward, he felt a calling to return to Ireland as a missionary and, following 15 years of religious training, he was ordained as a priest, bringing Christianity to the Irish people. Though many believe he brought Christianity to Ireland, he actually ministered to existing Christians and converted non-Christians. His death on March 17, 461, is celebrated as St. Patrick’s Day. The most famous legend about him is that he used the three leaves of a shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity.
Why is the day celebrated?
St. Patrick’s Day, observed on March 17, began as a religious feast day honoring St. Patrick, who is credited with bringing Christianity to the country in the 5th century.
Over time, it has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture and heritage, marked by parades, festivals, and the wearing of green attire.
What does the day means for Nigerians?
The celebration of St. Patrick’s Day in Nigeria has sparked curiosity about the country’s connection to the patron saint of Ireland.
While St. Patrick’s Day isn’t an official holiday in Nigeria, it’s still celebrated by the Irish community and the Irish embassy, with events showcasing Irish culture and traditions.
In 1961, Irish bishops in Nigeria nominated St. Patrick as the country’s patron saint, a decision that was accepted by the Nigerian Church.
The Irish have a long history in Nigeria, with Irish missionaries and priests establishing missions in the country, and Irish bishops playing a role in the Catholic Church in Nigeria.
St. Patrick’s Day in Nigeria is a chance to celebrate Irish culture and the strong ties between Ireland and Nigeria.
The popularity of Guinness stout in Nigeria further highlights the Irish influence.
The Rivers State government has played down the impeachment attempt against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, asserting that no formal communication has been received from the state House of Assembly regarding allegations of gross misconduct.
The assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule and comprising 27 pro-Wike lawmakers, issued a notice on March 14 2025, outlining allegations against Fubara and Odu. The letter, signed by 26 lawmakers, accused the governor of gross misconduct in the performance of the functions of the office of the governor, including spending public funds contrary to sections 120, 121 and 122 of the constitution, obstructing the assembly, and making appointments without legislative approval, among other allegations.
On Monday, Speaker Amaewhule confirmed the formal transmission of the notice to the governor and his deputy, citing Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which requires that impeachment allegations be signed by at least one-third of house members. He also directed the governor and his deputy to respond to the allegations within 14 days.
However, The State’s Commissioner for Information and Communication, Barrister Joseph Johnson, rejected the move, asserting that the letter was not addressed to the governor.
Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Monday, Johnson criticized the assembly for hindering Fubara’s efforts to implement the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the state’s ongoing political crisis.
He further remarked that the assembly’s actions were exacerbating the hardship faced by civil servants and pensioners due to the withholding of state allocations.
Johnson pointed out that Fubara had shown his commitment to respecting the court’s decision by instructing local government chairmen to hand over to their administrative heads. The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) had also scheduled new elections for August 9, 2025, in line with the ruling.
Reports indicate that this is the second attempt to impeach Governor Fubara. The first attempt occurred on October 30, 2023, when 24 members of the assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against the governor, leading to significant unrest, including the burning of parts of the assembly complex and its eventual demolition. During this time, Governor Fubara claimed he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt involving police gunfire.
In a related development, the assembly has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Tammy Danagogo, over accusations of extra-budgetary spending. The lawmakers also called on the EFCC to probe financial misconduct allegedly linked to Danagogo.
This move follows allegations from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who accused the SSG of instigating the state’s political turmoil, including securing a court order barring Fubara from recognizing the 27 lawmakers.
Lawyers Reactions To The Impeachment Process
In response to the impeachment attempt, Abeni Mohammed (SAN) emphasized that removing a governor and deputy must follow a strict constitutional process.
“They must go through the state’s Chief Judge, who will set up a panel to determine whether the allegations constitute an impeachable offense. The findings will then be returned to the Assembly before proceedings can commence,” he explained.
Mohammed added that Governor Fubara is unlikely to remain passive, given that the lawmakers have also violated the constitution by refusing to sit and adjourning indefinitely.
“The governor can challenge them in court to restrain any impeachment proceedings. Impeachment is a legal matter, and lawmakers must ensure they have not committed constitutional violations themselves. Let them serve the notice, and I am sure the governor’s lawyers know how to respond,” he said.
He also criticized the Supreme Court for intervening in a matter before the High Court, especially regarding the status of the 27 defected lawmakers.
“The apex court had no reason to make pronouncements on whether the lawmakers had vacated their seats, as the matter was not before them. Their ruling emboldened the lawmakers, who themselves violated the constitution by defecting. Where and when did they sit to issue directives after indefinitely adjourning? They are playing politics at the expense of Rivers people,” he stated.
Similarly, Taiye Oniyide (SAN) urged caution, stressing that both sides must prioritize the state’s interests over personal conflicts.
“This crisis has become unnecessarily personal. The power to impeach lies with the house, but this feud did not begin today. The entire nation is watching, and reasonable voices are urging caution,” he remarked.
Oniyide further alleged that former Governor Nyesom Wike had tacitly endorsed the impeachment attempt through his recent comments.
“This is pure political vendetta. Unfortunately, the people of Rivers suffer the most, as critical development is stalled. Governance should not be driven by bitterness,” he said.
What’s Next For Rivers State If Fubara Gets Impeached?
Several potential consequences could follow, If Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara were to be impeached;
Leadership Transition: An impeachment would trigger the succession process outlined by the state constitution. The Deputy Governor, in this case, would likely assume the role of Acting Governor. If the Deputy Governor is also unavailable or incapable of taking over, a new election may be called to elect a new governor.
However, The Rivers Restoration Movement (RRM) has said that if Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers is impeached, another Ijaw candidate must succeed him.
The group’s Director General, Johnson Georgewill, told journalists in Port Harcourt on Monday that the arrangement would ensure that the Ijaw people completed their tenure.
He stated that replacing Fubara with another Ijaw governor would ensure equity and fairness for the Ijaw people. Mr Georgewill noted that the RRM, a political interest group loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, had worked tirelessly to ensure an Ijaw candidate emerged as governor in 2023.
Impact on Governance: Fubara’s removal could disrupt the governance and implementation of policies in Rivers State. Ongoing projects or initiatives may experience delays, and the new leadership may alter the direction of governance, which could have significant consequences on the state’s development plans.
Legal Challenges: An impeachment could lead to legal battles if Fubara and his supporters contest the process. This could tie up resources and create a prolonged period of legal uncertainty, affecting the state’s functioning. It may create divisions within the state’s political parties, possibly leading to protests or public unrest, depending on the political landscape and public sentiment toward Fubara.
The Supreme Council for Sim Worldwide, a group supporting Governor Siminalayi Fubara, issued a warning against any attempt to impeach the Rivers State governor, stating that such an action could lead to widespread unrest.
During a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Tuesday,11th March 2025, the group’s leader, Esezi Obilor Rukani, urged the 27 lawmakers advocating for Fubara’s removal to rethink their decision, emphasizing that the people of Rivers State would strongly oppose any effort to remove him.
He remarked, “We all know the process of impeachment. Before it even starts, the state will boil because the governor is a man of the masses. The governor might not do anything, but the masses have something to do because they voted for the lawmakers, and they will have something to tell them.”
Economic Consequences: The business environment and investor confidence could be affected by the political turmoil surrounding an impeachment. Businesses may hold off on investments, and the state could face challenges in economic planning if there is uncertainty about the leadership.
Tension is rising in Rivers State, with many residents concerned that a crisis could break out at any moment.
Matthew Ahanna, a resident of Port Harcourt, shared, “We are being cautious and careful to avoid being victims. Parents are glued to their radios. Someone told me he will no longer send his wards to school when the crisis is over.”
Workers in the oil industry and civil servants are also feeling uneasy, closely monitoring the developing situation.
The ultimate fate of Rivers State would depend on how the impeachment process unfolds, the handling of the transition, and how effectively the new leadership can navigate the political and governance challenges that arise.
A National Youth Service Corps member based in Lagos, Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, who gained widespread attention last week for her remarks about the government, has issued an apology for “talking down” on Lagos.
On Monday, Raye took to Instagram to acknowledge that her statements may have offended Lagos residents. She expressed regret over her choice of words and clarified that she never intended to insult those who consider Lagos their home but was merely sharing her personal perspective as a newcomer.
She explained that her controversial comments were part of a larger initiative—a 30-day rant challenge designed to highlight urgent issues in Nigeria. Her main objective, she noted, was to spark discussions and bring attention to the country’s deteriorating economic situation.
She wrote, “I want to first of all state that I am sorry to the people who were born and raised in Lagos State if you feel offended by what I said. I am sorry.
“But as a visitor here, I could tell there was a difference in the atmosphere and quality of air here. If the way that I put it triggered your emotions and the love for your birth state, I am sorry. I didn’t mean to talk down on your birth state.”
Raye further elaborated that her initial plan was to release 20 videos highlighting various social issues, hoping to gain traction by the 20th day. However, the first video quickly caught the attention of many Nigerians who resonated with her concerns.
She also spoke about the financial difficulties faced by young people in Nigeria, emphasizing how, despite working long hours, many still struggle to afford basic social activities.
“When I started the 30-day rant challenge, I said I just wanted to be heard. I believed that if I got to DAY-20 people would begin to hear me and join me to speak to the government.
“My target was to make at least 20 videos complaining until I was heard. Lucky for me, I didn’t even have to get to DAY 2 because a lot of us were actually angry, and Day 1 of the challenge was enough for people to join me.
“I want better for myself. (And I hope you do too). The complaints I made are valid regardless of whatever ‘lifestyle’ you think I am living.
I work 45+ hours a week and I should be able to afford hanging out with my friends every weekend. However, I can’t. But how many of us can actually afford to hang out with our friends? How many can afford that in reality? You spend all week working and can’t even feel alive during the weekends.”
She urged Nigerians to remain focused on demanding better living conditions rather than getting distracted by fleeting controversies.
“I encourage all of us to ask for what we believe we deserve. I know distractions will take us again, very soon. But if we stay committed to asking for better we will get better,” she added.
Raye has remained a trending topic on Nigerian social media since Saturday after her TikTok video criticizing the country’s rising cost of living and economic hardship went viral.
In the video, she voiced frustration over the high cost of living and accused President Bola Tinubu of poor leadership, questioning the government’s response to citizens’ struggles. Her remarks about Lagos—particularly referring to it as a “smelling state”—sparked mixed reactions online, with some agreeing with her perspective while others condemned her words.
Former Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria, FBN Holdings, Oba Otudeko, has denied allegations of financial mismanagement during his tenure.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had accused him of mishandling funds, violating banking regulations, and engaging in irregular transactions that allegedly impacted the bank’s credibility and stakeholder confidence.
Oba Otudeko, a prominent Nigerian businessman, is facing legal proceedings over fraud allegations linked to his tenure at FBN Holdings.
The EFCC has charged him and other former executives with fraudulently obtaining loans totaling ₦12.3 billion from the Bank.
In a separate case, he and three others were previously accused of a ₦30 billion loan fraud, with a 13-count charge filed against them.
At a Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday 17th of March, 2025, Otudeko’s defense lawyer, Wole Olanipekun, informed the court that settlement discussions were ongoing. He referenced a meeting held on March 12, attended by representatives from the Attorney-General’s office and the EFCC’s legal team, to explore a possible resolution.
During the proceedings, Justice Chukwuekwu Aneke ruled that Otudeko must enter a formal plea before any jurisdictional arguments could be considered.
Olanipekun then requested a delay in further proceedings to allow time for settlement discussions, arguing that setting an arraignment date while negotiations were ongoing could affect the fairness of the process. The judge granted the request and adjourned the case until May 8 for an update on the settlement talks.
These allegations have sparked concerns within Nigeria’s financial sector, given Otudeko’s influential role in the industry.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for corporate governance and financial regulations in the country.
A powerful explosion has struck a section of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Bodo Community, Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The blast occurred late Monday night near the Bodo-Bonny Road, which is currently under construction. A video that surfaced on Tuesday morning shows thick black smoke billowing into the sky as flames rapidly spread through the mangrove forest.
The TNP is a key federal transport pipeline that supplies crude oil to the Bonny Export Terminal in Rivers State.
When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, stated that she would investigate the incident and provide further details. However, no official update had been released as of the time of filing this report.
The prospect of extending voting rights to Nigerians living abroad has been a topic of considerable discussion. As the 2027 general elections approach, understanding the potential impact of diaspora voting becomes increasingly pertinent. Allowing Nigerians abroad to participate in elections could significantly influence the political landscape.
The Nigerian Diaspora: A Global Overview
Estimates of the Nigerian diaspora population vary widely, reflecting the challenges in obtaining precise figures. The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs estimated approximately 1.7 million Nigerians living abroad as of June 2020.
However, other sources suggest higher numbers; for instance, a 2018 report by PricewaterhouseCoopers cited official records indicating 1.24 million Nigerian migrants in 2017, acknowledging that the actual figure could be higher due to recent migration trends.
Additionally, the Wikipedia page on Nigerians indicates significant populations in countries such as the United States (461,895), the United Kingdom (312,000 as of 2021), and Canada (111,465).
Economic Contributions: The Power of Remittances
Nigeria boasts one of the largest diaspora populations globally. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria, remittances from Nigerians abroad reached $600 million in September 2024, with ambitions to achieve $1 billion monthly.
This substantial financial contribution underscores the diaspora’s economic significance and hints at their potential electoral influence.
Diaspora Voting: A Global Perspective
Globally, many countries have recognized the importance of including their diaspora in the electoral process. As of 2020, a total of 141 countries grant non-resident citizens the right to vote.
The modalities of such voting rights vary, with some nations allowing postal votes, while others facilitate in-person voting at embassies or consulates. The rationale behind enfranchising citizens abroad includes acknowledging their economic contributions and maintaining their engagement with the homeland.
Examining other nations reveals the profound impact of diaspora voting:
Moldova: In a recent election, the Moldovan diaspora played a pivotal role in re-electing pro-European President Maia Sandu. Notably, 327,000 Moldovans abroad voted, with over 82% supporting Sandu, highlighting the diaspora’s decisive influence.
United States: Overseas American voters have become a focal point in elections, with both major parties recognizing their potential to sway tight races. Efforts to mobilize these voters have intensified, given their capacity to influence outcomes in swing states.
Potential Implications for Nigeria’s 2027 Elections
Electoral Outcomes: With millions of Nigerians residing abroad, their participation could reshape election results, especially in closely contested regions.
Policy Priorities: Candidates might prioritize issues pertinent to the diaspora, such as foreign investment policies, dual citizenship, and consular services, to garner their support.
Economic Policies: Recognizing the diaspora’s economic contributions, future governments may implement policies to facilitate investments from abroad, boosting national development. Challenges to Implementing Diaspora Voting
While the benefits are evident, several challenges must be addressed:
Logistical Hurdles: Establishing secure and accessible voting mechanisms for Nigerians worldwide requires significant planning and resources.
Legal Framework: Amendments to existing electoral laws would be necessary to accommodate diaspora voting, ensuring clarity and fairness.
Political Will: Gaining consensus among political stakeholders is crucial for implementing such a transformative initiative.
Integrating the Nigerian diaspora into the electoral process holds the promise of a more inclusive democracy. Drawing from global examples, it’s evident that diaspora voting can significantly influence election outcomes. As Nigeria approaches its 2027 general elections, thoughtful consideration and strategic planning are essential to harness the potential of its global citizens.
The recent uproar and debate about a National Youth Service Corp, NYSC, member, serving in Lagos state continues to generate controversy.
The Corp member, Ushie Uguamaye, know as Raye by her Tiktok account, described the city’s pervasive odor as a major challenge, lamenting that the unpleasant smell made even a simple walk unbearable, making the statement “Lagos stinks”.
But does Lagos really stink?
The pervasive issue of unpleasant odors in Lagos, Nigeria, is a complex one, stemming from a combination of factors related to rapid urbanization and infrastructure challenges.
Here’s a breakdown of the key contributors:
Inadequate Waste Management
Lagos produces an enormous amount of waste every day, and the city’s waste management system is often unable to handle it all. Trash piles up in the streets, gutters, and open dumps, where it rots and emits strong, unpleasant smells. The lack of efficient waste collection and disposal systems only makes the problem worse.
Drainage and Sewage
Lagos’s aging sewage system, a relic of a bygone era, often leaks and overflows, releasing smelly wastewater into the environment. The odor, a constant reminder of the city’s infrastructure challenges, lingers in the air. The city’s drainage systems are often clogged with debris and waste, and when it rains, these blocked drains overflow, spreading sewage and decomposing matter. This leads to stagnant water, which breeds bacteria and produces foul odors. Inadequate sewage infrastructure contributes to the problem, with open sewers and improper waste disposal adding to the stench.
Pollution
Lagos, a densely populated and heavily industrialized city, suffers from significant air pollution. Emissions from vehicles, generators, and industrial activities contribute to the overall unpleasant smell. Some factories release untreated waste and chemicals into the air and water, contributing to the foul smell, especially in industrial areas. Lagos has many polluted water bodies, including the Lagos Lagoon, which collects sewage, industrial waste, and runoff from the city. The smell from these stagnant and polluted waters worsens in hot weather. Factories and industries, the backbone of Lagos’s economy, also contribute to the city’s odor profile. Their emissions, a mixture of chemical fumes and industrial byproducts, often waft through the air, creating a distinct, and sometimes unpleasant, scent.
Population Density
Lagos, a densely populated city, with over 15 million, faces a unique challenge when it comes to unpleasant odors. The sheer number of people living in close proximity creates a significant strain on waste management and sanitation infrastructure. With a large population, the volume of garbage generated daily is substantial, leading to overflowing landfills and improper waste disposal. This, in turn, contributes to a foul smell emanating from various areas of the city.
Environmental behaviors
The lack of proper sanitation infrastructure and unsanitary behaviors contribute significantly to the unpleasant odors in Lagos. Open defecation, a prevalent issue in some areas, directly releases human waste into the environment, contributing to the foul smell. Additionally, poorly maintained toilets and open sewers allow raw sewage to leak into the environment, further exacerbating the problem. The combination of these factors creates a strong, unpleasant odor that permeates certain areas of the city.
The Tropical Heat
Lagos’s hot and humid climate plays a significant role in amplifying the city’s unpleasant smells. The intense heat and humidity accelerate the process of decomposition, causing organic matter to break down more quickly. This rapid decomposition releases volatile compounds into the air, creating stronger and more noticeable odors. Additionally, the heat intensifies the olfactory experience itself. Our sense of smell is more sensitive in warm temperatures, making us more aware of even subtle aromas. This heightened sensitivity, combined with the increased presence of volatile compounds, makes the city’s odor profile even more pronounced.
Markets & Slaughterhouses
Lagos’s numerous bustling markets and slaughterhouses contribute significantly to the city’s odor profile. Improper waste disposal, particularly of food waste, fish, and animal remains, creates a strong stench in these areas. The presence of abattoirs within residential areas also exacerbates environmental pollution. Waste generated from slaughtering activities provides breeding grounds for germs and disease vectors, leading to the spread of zoonotic infections and contamination of water sources.
In essence, the “smell” of Lagos is a symptom of broader environmental challenges that the city faces.
What is Lagos Government doing?
Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including improving waste management infrastructure, enforcing environmental regulations, and promoting public awareness about proper waste disposal practices.
The Lagos State Government, led by Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab, took steps in promoting environmental sustainability through direct sanitation advocacy campaigns.
The ministry has visited several locations, including Oyingbo Market and Eko Hotel/Zenith Roundabout, to encourage proper waste disposal and adherence to environmental regulations.
The government is also enforcing compliance by removing illegal stalls and urging residents to adopt sustainable practices like reducing single-use plastics.
On February 20, 2025, the commissioner addressed the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, emphasizing the need to integrate environmental laws into urban development. He advocated for using technology and collaboration to achieve sustainable urban growth and tackle challenges like flooding, waste management, and deforestation.
An MOU was signed with Lafarge Africa to collect non-recyclable waste for use as fuel in cement production, aiming to reduce landfill waste and promote a circular economy. The partnership aligns with the state’s commitment to zero-waste initiatives and supports sustainable construction and climate action by reducing carbon emissions.
The state government has also embarked on an urban regeneration project on Lagos Island, focusing on reconstructing major roads, drainage systems, and key infrastructure. This effort aims to address chronic flooding issues and revitalize the island’s infrastructure.
The Lagos State Government has called on all residents to adopt good environmental practices during the Yuletide season. This appeal emphasizes the importance of proper waste disposal, maintaining clean surroundings, and adhering to environmental regulations to ensure a healthy and safe festive period for all.
Conan O’Brien will return as the host for the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. This announcement was made by Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang on Monday.
Reflecting on his previous hosting experience, O’Brien humorously remarked, “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” referencing the actor’s notably lengthy acceptance speech at the March 2 ceremony.
O’Brien’s inaugural hosting stint garnered positive reviews, featuring musical elements and sharp humor, including a pointed joke about Donald Trump. The 2025 Academy Awards broadcast achieved a five-year viewership high, attracting 19.69 million viewers.
Alongside O’Brien, executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan will return for their third consecutive year, with producers Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney coming back for their second year. Kramer and Yang expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to bring back Conan, Raj, Katy, Jeff, and Mike for the 98th Oscars! This year, they produced a hugely entertaining and visually stunning show that celebrated our nominees and the global film community in the most beautiful and impactful way. Conan was the perfect host — skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth, and reverence. It is an honor to be working with them again.”
At the 2025 Oscars, Sean Baker’s film “Anora” emerged as the big winner, securing five awards: Best Picture; Best Director, Editor, and Original Screenplay for Baker; and Best Actress for Mikey Madison. Additionally, Zoe Saldaña received the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in “Emilia Pérez,” and Kieran Culkin won Best Supporting Actor for “A Real Pain.”
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