Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government to focus on rehabilitating existing roads rather than starting new construction projects. In a post on his X handle, Obi argued that repairing critical highways would benefit Nigerians more than initiating new ventures. He stated that successive governments should restore the country’s deteriorating road network before announcing fresh projects. Obi cited the Asaba–Benin Road as an example of a vital transport corridor linking several states to Lagos, noting that large sections have deteriorated, causing persistent gridlock and hardship for commuters and businesses. He emphasized that the situation on the Asaba–Benin Road reflects the condition of many of Nigeria’s busiest highways, urging greater attention to their reconstruction and maintenance. Obi concluded that the Nigerian populace needs functional and motorable roads, not just projects for public attention or political gain.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadThe Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has congratulated Osasere Okundaye for becoming Nigeria's youngest chartered accountant at 16 years old. Olawande described her achievement as a demonstration of hard work, discipline, resilience, and commitment to excellence, highlighting her as an example of the potential of Nigerian youth. The minister also acknowledged the support from her parents, family, teachers, and mentors. Okundaye earned this qualification through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, surpassing the previous record set in 2022 by Jonathan Adewale, who achieved the feat at 17. The qualification is known as one of Nigeria's most demanding professional certifications.
BreakingThe Borno State Police Command has dispatched security operatives to the Lassa community in the Askira/Uba Local Government Area following the abduction of an unspecified number of students taking National Examinations Council examinations. Suspected terrorists attacked the school around 9 a.m. on Monday, shooting indiscriminately and abducting students and women selling food items. The spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, Nahum Daso, confirmed that security forces confronted the attackers, preventing a larger abduction, and are currently searching the bush. Mr. Solomon Kwamagar, Special Adviser to Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri on Media and Strategy and a Lassa resident, also confirmed the incident, stating that attackers arrived on motorcycles, killed one teacher, and abducted students. The President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, reported that the attackers wore military and forest guard uniforms, killed one teacher, injured another, and kidnapped students and women. Residents claimed two teachers and one female student were killed. This incident follows a May 16 abduction of 42 students and pupils in the same local government area by suspected Boko Haram terrorists.
Must ReadSouth African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on citizens planning to protest against undocumented immigration on June 30 to do so peacefully and within the law. In a message titled “Protest is both a right and a responsibility,” Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns regarding illegal immigration, border management, and the strain on public services. He emphasized that while the right to protest is enshrined in the Constitution, it does not permit threats, intimidation, vandalism, or violence. The President stated that the government recognizes the need for immigration system reforms and is already implementing measures to strengthen border management, improve visa and asylum processes, and combat corruption. He warned that criminal acts during protests would lead to accountability and that taking immigration enforcement into private hands constitutes vigilantism, which has no place in a constitutional democracy. Ramaphosa also highlighted that many foreign nationals in South Africa are there legally, contribute positively to society, and are entitled to legal protection. Law enforcement agencies are prepared to maintain order and protect both public safety and the right to peaceful protest.