Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Author: Agency Report

  • Meloni: Italy Not Going to War, But Will Help Shield Gulf States

    Meloni: Italy Not Going to War, But Will Help Shield Gulf States

    Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Thursday said Italy does not intend to enter a war despite rising tensions in the Middle East, but is prepared to provide defensive assistance to Gulf countries to help safeguard regional stability and Italian interests.

    Speaking during a live interview with Italian radio station RTL 102.5, Meloni said Italy is working alongside Britain, France and Germany to offer defensive support, particularly in the area of air defence, to countries in the Gulf.

    The prime minister explained that the initiative is partly aimed at protecting tens of thousands of Italian citizens living in the region, as well as around 2,000 Italian troops currently stationed there.

    She noted that the Gulf remains strategically important for global energy supplies and therefore holds significant economic and security importance for Italy.

    Meloni expressed concern over the worsening situation in the Middle East, warning that the ongoing conflict risks triggering a broader escalation with unpredictable consequences.

    According to her, the crisis could also pose serious challenges to international law.

    “The situation risks spiralling further and creating repercussions that could affect Italy as well,” she said.

    Addressing speculation about the potential use of U.S. military bases located in Italy for operations against Iran, Meloni clarified that no such request had been made by Washington.

    “Italy is not at war and does not intend to enter a war,” she said, stressing that the use of American military facilities in Italy continues to follow existing bilateral agreements between the two countries.

    Meloni explained that these arrangements stem from agreements originally signed in 1954 and subsequently updated over time, allowing several military installations in Italy to be made available to the United States.

    The prime minister also said her government is closely monitoring the possible economic impact of the growing Middle East crisis.

    She emphasized the need to prevent market speculation that could lead to rising energy and food prices.

    According to Meloni, safeguarding economic stability will remain a priority as geopolitical tensions continue to unfold.

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    Dangote Refinery Raises Depot Price, Fuel Hits N1,000/Litre in South-East

    Petrol prices have surged to as high as N1,000 per litre in parts of Nigeria’s South-East following an increase in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) by Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals.

    The Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers of Nigeria (IPMAN), Enugu Zone, Mr. Chinedu Anyaso, said the rise in pump price was triggered by an increase at the supply source rather than actions by marketers.

    Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, Anyaso, whose zone covers Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu states, explained that Dangote Refinery raised its depot price by about N110 per litre, which directly affected retail prices.

    “The price of PMS has increased and this is because Dangote, which is our major supplier, added about N110 to every litre,” he said.

    “So, the hike is not artificial, it is not arbitrary, it is a direct reflection of the reality we are facing.”

    According to him, the situation may worsen if the ongoing conflict in the Middle East persists, warning that instability in the region could disrupt crude oil production and drive global prices higher.

    “Prices of petroleum products will definitely go higher if the war in the Gulf continues because it will have negative impact on production and price of crude,” he added.

    Petrol Now Selling Between N950 and N1,000

    Findings by NAN showed that petrol currently sells between N950 and N1,000 per litre in Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu states. This represents a sharp increase from the N840–N850 per litre price recorded in the last week of February.

    Major fuel retailers across the country had already adjusted their pump prices earlier in the week to between N930 and N970 per litre following the refinery’s N100 upward review in its ex-depot price.

    In Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, filling stations including NNPC Retail outlets and Rainoil increased their pump price from N870 to N970 per litre.

    A pump attendant at one of the stations, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the new pricing reportedly caused a temporary pause in petrol loading operations.

    Queues Begin to Appear

    In Awka, the Anambra State capital, queues have begun forming at some filling stations, indicating growing pressure on supply.

    Similarly, investigations in Enugu State showed that petrol prices jumped from between N780 and N820 per litre to N950 and N980 per litre across the state capital.

    In semi-urban areas such as Obollo Afor, Orba and Enugu Ezike in Udenu and Igboeze North Local Government Areas, petrol is reportedly selling for as high as N1,000 per litre, depending on the marketer.

    Residents Express Concern

    Residents, traders and motorists have expressed concern over the continuous rise in fuel prices, warning that it could worsen economic hardship.

    A food trader, Mr. John Okoh, lamented the situation and called for government intervention.

    “Though the hike has not affected food items yet, it is too bad the way citizens wake up to increases in petroleum product prices, forgetting that it is the lifeline of the nation’s economy,” he said.

    A civil servant, Mrs. Eunice Nwankwo, described the development as troubling, saying the petroleum sector had continued to impose hardship on Nigerians.

    “I don’t think there has been any increase in transportation yet. I paid the same amount I usually pay from where I live,” she said.

    Transporters Yet to Adjust Fares

    Transport operators said they were still assessing the situation before deciding whether to raise fares.

    Commercial driver Mr. Chinedu Odo noted that many drivers only discovered the price increase while buying fuel.

    “The N950 petrol price just started today; I noticed it when I went to the filling station,” he said.

    “After today’s work we will know what’s next. If the increase continues, surely we will increase transport fares.”

    A tricycle operator, Mr. Innocent Eze, said many riders had not yet felt the full impact of the new fuel price.

    “Some of us buy fuel after work; by the close of work today, we will know the situation. By tomorrow there will likely be a slight adjustment in transport fares,” he said.

    Marketers Blame Global Oil Market

    An independent marketer, Mr. Emeka Ugwuagbo, also blamed global developments for the increase.

    He pointed to the recent announcement by Dangote Group adjusting the depot price of petrol from N774 to N884 per litre.

    “What do you want to hear from me; didn’t you hear the announcement by Dangote? It is not our fault,” he said.

    “Everybody knows what is happening in Iran, which has affected oil prices globally. Nigeria is not an exception.”

  • Global Migrant Death Toll Remains Alarmingly High – UN

    Global Migrant Death Toll Remains Alarmingly High – UN

    At least 7,667 people died or went missing along migration routes worldwide last year, the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Thursday, warning that the true figure is likely far higher due to underreporting and shrinking resources for aid organisations.

    The documented cases reflect only confirmed incidents, the IOM said, noting that many deaths can no longer be traced after a sharp decline in funding for search, rescue, and monitoring operations.

    The agency stressed that hundreds of additional migrants are believed to have disappeared without any official record.

    READ ALSO: https://clone.nigeriananchor.com/fg-iom-repatriate-21-irregular-nigerian-migrants-from-libya/

    In 2024, the IOM recorded approximately 9,200 migrant deaths globally — the highest number since the agency began systematically tracking fatalities in 2014.

    So far this year, the situation appears to be worsening in key regions.

    As of Feb. 24, at least 606 deaths have been registered in the Mediterranean Sea, more than double the 285 recorded during the same period in 2025, according to IOM data.

    The agency said the figures exclude many migrants reported missing by families and humanitarian groups, underscoring what it described as a persistent and deadly protection gap.

    READ ALSO: https://clone.nigeriananchor.com/fg-receives-108-stranded-nigerian-migrants-in-niger/

    The IOM urged governments and donors to provide greater financial support for rescue organisations and called for stronger international action against smuggling networks that prey on vulnerable migrants.

    “The continued loss of life on migration routes is a global failure we cannot accept as normal,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope.
    “We must act now to expand safe and regular routes, and ensure people in need can be reached and protected, regardless of their status.”

    Last year, nearly 2,200 people died or went missing while attempting to cross the Mediterranean, while around 1,200 perished on the Atlantic route between West Africa and the Canary Islands. Both totals were lower than those recorded in 2024, the agency said.

    RELATED STORY: https://clone.nigeriananchor.com/foreign-hardship-forced-48-nigerians-back-home-nbs/

    However, risks along lesser-monitored routes remain acute.

    Three boats were recently found along the coasts of Brazil and islands in the Caribbean, with migrants believed to have died while attempting the long and dangerous crossing from West Africa toward the Canary Islands.

    For the third consecutive year, the highest number of migrant deaths — nearly 4,000 — occurred on routes in Asia and between the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

    The IOM attributed much of this trend to an increase in people fleeing Afghanistan, as prolonged instability continues to drive displacement across the region.

    The agency warned that without urgent investment in safe migration pathways, humanitarian response, and coordinated international enforcement, preventable deaths along migration routes will continue to rise.

  • FG to Spend N21.68bn on First Phase of NAMA Headquarters in Abuja

    FG to Spend N21.68bn on First Phase of NAMA Headquarters in Abuja

    The Federal Government has approved the sum of N21.68 billion for the construction of the first phase of a new corporate headquarters for the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) in Abuja, as part of efforts to modernise Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this on Thursday during the groundbreaking ceremony for the project.

    According to the minister, the contract for the first phase has been awarded to NHD Interbiz Projects Ltd, with a completion period of 30 months.

    “We will hold them to the highest standards of quality and timelines as stipulated in the agreement.
    The contract is valued at N21.68 billion, inclusive of all taxes, with a completion period of 30 months,” Keyamo said.

    Project Tied to Executive Order 12

    Keyamo described the project as a deliberate implementation of Executive Order 12, noting that it reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to coordinated infrastructure development.

    “This groundbreaking is not an isolated event. It is a direct and deliberate action pursuant to Executive Order 12,” he stated.

    He said the government remained focused on upgrading infrastructure that underpins the safety, efficiency and growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector, adding that many agencies under the ministry had operated for years in outdated and fragmented facilities.

    Integrated, Technology-Driven Facility

    According to the minister, the new headquarters will consolidate NAMA’s administrative and operational units into a modern, purpose-built facility, integrating executive management offices with a state-of-the-art Air Traffic Management Centre.

    “With this new headquarters, we are providing a conducive environment that fosters innovation, enhances collaboration and boosts staff morale,” Keyamo said.

    He explained that the integrated structure would improve efficiency, strengthen safety oversight and enable real-time operational responsiveness in the management of Nigeria’s sovereign airspace.

    Procurement Compliance and Economic Impact

    Keyamo stressed that the project strictly complied with the Public Procurement Act 2007, following a transparent and competitive tender process.

    He linked the project to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a catalyst for job creation, economic stimulation and enhanced national security.

    “Ultimately, it builds confidence in the aviation sector, encouraging investment and seamless movement of people and goods,” he added.

    NAMA MD Calls for Excellence

    Also speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director of NAMA, Ahmed Farouk, described aviation as an interdependent ecosystem that thrives on strong partnerships.

    “To the contractor, NHD Interbiz Projects Ltd., we expect nothing short of excellence and timely completion,” Farouk said.
    “As we turn the sod today, we are laying the foundation for the future of air navigation services in Nigeria.”

    The new headquarters is expected to serve as a central hub for air navigation management, reinforcing Nigeria’s position in regional and international aviation operations.

  • Ezhiba Community Laments Neglect, Urges Gov. Sule to Fix Ezhiba/Akpata Road

    Ezhiba Community Laments Neglect, Urges Gov. Sule to Fix Ezhiba/Akpata Road

    Residents of Ezhiba community in Nasarawa State have raised concern over what they describe as years of neglect, appealing to Governor Abdullahi Sule to urgently intervene in the deplorable condition of the over five-kilometre Ezhiba/Akpata road, which they say continues to undermine agriculture, economic activities, and the overall quality of life in the area.

    Their concern was conveyed by the Village Head of Ezhiba, Chief Danlami Umbugadu, when he led members of the community on a courtesy visit to Akun Area Administrative Council, where they met with the council’s Administrator, Garba Adigizi, in Akpata.

    Umbugadu said the deplorable condition of the road has continued to hinder economic growth and agricultural activities in the area, stressing that residents and other road users endure serious hardship daily.

    “This road is in a very bad shape. Our people and other users are suffering while plying it. We are appealing to His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Sule, to construct this road so as to improve our standard of living,” he said.

    According to the traditional ruler, rehabilitating the Ezhiba/Akpata road would significantly boost agricultural productivity, ease transportation of farm produce, and enhance socio-economic activities within the community and its environs.

    Beyond road infrastructure, Umbugadu also appealed to the state government to consider employing and appointing qualified sons and daughters of Ezhiba into various government positions, noting that greater inclusion would further strengthen development and a sense of belonging among the people.

    He assured the governor and the Akun Area Administrative Council of the community’s continued loyalty and unwavering support for the current administration.

    Other prominent sons of the community who spoke during the visit included Mr. Lami Martina Bako, a former Speaker of Akun Development Area; Mr. Charles Jatau Shari, a retired Director in the State Ministry of Education; and Mr. Umbugadu Angbashim, Chairman of the Ezhiba community. They all reiterated their support for the governor and the council administrator, while calling for sustained government attention to grassroots development.

    Responding, Adigizi thanked the Ezhiba community for the visit and assured them of his commitment to partnering with the people to drive development in the area.

    He further pledged to uphold inclusive leadership that would promote unity, peace, and sustainable growth across communities under the Akun Area Administrative Council.

    The administrator also expressed readiness to initiate people-oriented policies and programmes that would have a direct and positive impact on the lives of residents.

  • Wikki Tourists, Nasarawa United Share Spoils in Bauchi NPFL Clash

    Wikki Tourists, Nasarawa United Share Spoils in Bauchi NPFL Clash

    Wikki Tourists FC and Nasarawa United FC played out a 1–1 draw on Sunday in a keenly contested Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 24 fixture at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium.

    Nasarawa United took the lead in the 28th minute after Izuchukwu Chimezie capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home the opener.

    Wikki Tourists responded before the interval, with Jonathan Mairiga restoring parity in the 41st minute to ensure both sides went into the break level.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the encounter was highly competitive, as both teams displayed tactical discipline and determination throughout the match.

    Wikki Tourists had an opportunity to go ahead in the second half but failed to convert a penalty, and no further goals were recorded as the match ended in a stalemate.

    The result leaves Wikki Tourists on 28 points from 24 matches, sitting 14th on the Nigeria Premier Football League standings.

    Sports analyst Bala Sani described the match as exciting, noting that Nasarawa United appeared better organised technically and well-prepared for the encounter.

    Reacting after the game, Wikki Tourists Chief Coach, Bala Saleh, attributed his team’s display to fatigue, explaining that the strain resulted from playing three consecutive matches. He, however, expressed confidence ahead of their next fixture against Katsina United.

    Also speaking, Nasarawa United Assistant Coach, Stephen Moga, praised his players for their professionalism, saying they executed the game plan effectively despite the pressure of playing away from home.

  • Northern Rulers Pledge Support for Security in South-South, South-East

    Northern Rulers Pledge Support for Security in South-South, South-East

    The Northern Traditional Rulers Council for the South-South and South-East has pledged to support security agencies and state governments in addressing security challenges across the two regions.

    The council’s chairman, Alhaji Yaro Danladi, disclosed this on Sunday while briefing journalists on the outcome of a two-day emergency meeting held in Umuahia, Abia State.

    Danladi said the council resolved that northern communities resident in the regions would work closely with state governments, host communities and security agencies to promote peace, stability and harmonious coexistence.

    “We agreed to work hand-in-hand with our governors and live peacefully with the indigenous people of our host states,” he said.

    He explained that the meeting was convened in response to emerging security concerns, adding that the council resolved to support security agencies through timely intelligence gathering and information sharing.

    According to him, representatives would be appointed in northern communities across the regions, including at local government levels, to ensure the swift transmission of security-related information to relevant authorities.

    “Once any incident occurs, information will reach us promptly, and we will immediately alert the appropriate security agencies,” Danladi said.

    He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting state governments in the fight against crime and criminality, stressing that no criminal element within northern communities would be protected.

    “We do not support criminals. Anyone found engaging in criminal activities will be handed over to law enforcement agencies for prosecution,” he said.

    Danladi also urged youths from northern communities to respect the laws of their host states and continue to live peacefully with their neighbours. He called on state governments to strengthen collaboration with northern leaders in identifying and integrating long-term residents, noting that many northerners had lived in the regions for decades.

    Similarly, the leader of the Hausa community in Enugu State, Alhaji Abubakar Sambo, reiterated the council’s resolve to strengthen peace, security, cooperation and welfare in the South-East and South-South.

    Sambo, who is also the National Vice Chairman of the Inter-Tribal Traditional Leaders Association of Nigeria, said the council discussed strategies to enhance intelligence gathering and coordination within northern communities in support of state security efforts.

    He said the council resolved to establish a coordinated structure for northern communities in each state, down to local government and community levels, to improve engagement, welfare delivery and rapid information sharing.

    Sambo also reaffirmed the traditional role of the Sarkin Hausawa as the recognised leaders and primary point of contact for northern communities across the states.

    He called for sustained collaboration between the council and state governments, describing such partnership as critical to addressing security challenges and maintaining peaceful coexistence.

    In his remarks, the Head of the Hausa Muslim Umma in Cross River State, Alhaji Garba Lawan, said northern communities in the region had continued to enjoy cordial relations with host communities and state governments.

    Lawan said the communities had benefited from government support and security protection over the years, reflecting long-standing peaceful coexistence.

    Commenting on concerns over scavenging activities, he said the trade was not exclusive to northerners and noted that members of the Hausa Muslim Umma had been sensitised on lawful conduct and compliance with regulations.

    He recalled that scavenging was previously banned in Cross River State due to security concerns but said the ban was recently lifted following consultations between the government and key stakeholders, with strict conditions attached.

  • ONICCIMA Calls for Dialogue as Anambra Shuts Onitsha Main Market

    ONICCIMA Calls for Dialogue as Anambra Shuts Onitsha Main Market

    The Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ONICCIMA) has urged the Anambra State Government to embrace dialogue in resolving the closure of Onitsha Main Market, warning that prolonged shutdowns could deepen economic hardship for traders and residents.

    The appeal followed a one-week closure of the market ordered by Governor Chukwuma Soludo in response to the continued observance of the Monday sit-at-home across parts of the state.

    In a statement signed by its President, Chinedu Nwonu, and made available to journalists in Onitsha on Wednesday, the chamber acknowledged the constitutional duty of government to maintain law, order, and an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, noting that such stability is critical to the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

    ONICCIMA said government records indicate that the South-East loses an estimated ₦19.6 billion weekly to sit-at-home activities, with Anambra State accounting for about ₦8 billion of that figure.

    It warned that the scale and frequency of the losses pose a serious risk of economic dislocation and instability.

    While expressing support for decisive actions to restore lawful economic activities, the chamber cautioned against the use of prolonged market closures as punitive measures, describing them as economically and socially damaging.

    According to the chamber, the closure of Onitsha Main Market disrupts supply chains, erodes investor confidence, heightens social tension, and threatens the livelihoods of thousands of households dependent on daily trading activities.

    It added that continued disruption of market operations could negatively affect manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, and retailers nationwide, leading to scarcity of goods, increased transportation costs, and inflationary pressures that would ultimately be borne by consumers.

    ONICCIMA therefore called on the state government to strike a balance between enforcement and engagement, security and economic sensitivity, and authority and partnership, in the overall interest of the people and the state’s economy.

    It urged the government to restore confidence, protect businesses, and ensure the full return of Onitsha Main Market to normal Monday-to-Saturday operations in a safe, secure, and sustainable manner.

  • Abia Government Rolls Out Civil Service Estate, Boosts City Beautification

    Abia Government Rolls Out Civil Service Estate, Boosts City Beautification

    Umuahia, Abia State – January 20, 2026 – The Abia State Government has announced plans to construct a Civil Service Commission/Pocket Layout Estate in Umuahia, aimed at delivering affordable and quality housing for residents. The announcement was made by Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, following the State Executive Council meeting.

    “The Ministry of Housing will soon commence work on the project, in line with Governor Alex Otti’s vision to improve the welfare of Abia citizens through sustainable housing,” Kanu said.

    The government is also in advanced discussions with private developers under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to develop housing estates at Mbaisii and Mgbarakuma, Umuahia. Agreements are near completion to allow construction to begin promptly.

    As part of its Urban Renewal Programme, the state has intensified efforts to beautify the capital, including tree planting, road repairs, installation of signs, and removal of shanties and illegal building projections. Residents and landlords have been given deadlines to comply, with enforcement by the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA). Landlords are required to carry out routine maintenance or facelifts within four weeks.

    In the health sector, the state has recruited 649 medical personnel, including 432 nurses deployed to primary healthcare centers and a neurosurgeon with a rare specialty. Recruitment will continue until the approved 771 positions are filled.

    On transportation, temporary charging stations have been installed to support the government’s free electric bus services, while two distribution substations at the Umuahia Bus Terminal are 80% completed.

    In the power sector, the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA) will soon regulate electricity activities, enhancing consumer protection and service delivery following the transfer of regulatory authority from NERC.

    The government also banned illegal commercial vehicle parking and warned defaulters of impoundment.

    The Forum of Academic Doctors recently recognized Governor Alex Otti as the best performing governor in the South-East, citing reforms across housing, health, power, and urban development.

  • FCTA Sweeps 607 Beggars, Mentally Challenged Persons Off Abuja Streets

    FCTA Sweeps 607 Beggars, Mentally Challenged Persons Off Abuja Streets

    The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has removed no fewer than 607 beggars and mentally challenged individuals from the streets of Abuja between July 2025 and date, as part of efforts to enhance security and maintain order in the nation’s capital.

    Mrs Ukachi Adebayo, Head of Enforcement at the FCT Social Development Secretariat (SDS), disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

    Adebayo said the exercise was carried out by the Operation Sweep Abuja team, established to rid the city of criminal elements. She explained that out of the 607 persons evacuated, 583 were beggars, while 23 were mentally challenged individuals.

    According to her, those apprehended were counselled and profiled before being taken to their respective state liaison offices for return to their states of origin, where they are expected to undergo rehabilitation.

    “What we do when we apprehend them is to counsel them in order to properly profile them. After that, we take them to their liaison offices to be returned to their states,” Adebayo said.

    She noted that despite repeated evacuations, many of the individuals often return to the streets of Abuja, attributing the trend to insecurity in some states of origin. She added that the operation would remain ongoing.

    Similarly, the Acting Director of Social Welfare at the SDS, Mrs Gloria Onwuka, said investigations revealed that some children seen begging on the streets were brought in from other states by unidentified individuals who collect the proceeds from them.

    Onwuka disclosed that in many cases, women arrested with children begging were not their biological mothers, describing street begging as a growing business.

    “Begging is now run like a business. People hire children from other states and bring them to Abuja to beg, while the families of the children are often unaware,” she said.

    Also speaking, Dr Peter Olumuji, Secretary of the FCTA Command and Control Centre, said Operation Sweep Abuja is a joint security operation involving relevant security agencies as well as FCT secretariats, departments and agencies.

    He explained that the initiative was instituted by the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, to rid Abuja of miscreants, beggars, scavengers and other criminal elements, noting that beggars pose security threats and contribute to the defacing of the city.

    Olumuji added that some beggars serve as informants to criminals, while others become victims of kidnapping and ritual-related crimes.

    He recalled that Wike, in October 2024, declared a war on street begging in Abuja, citing concerns that the city was fast turning into a “beggars’ city.”

    The minister had stressed that the move was aimed at strengthening security and ensuring that residents and visitors could live and move around the capital without fear.