More from Nigeria
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 mins ago
President Tinubu inaugurates Abuja City Walk, pledges to protect investments
President Bola Tinubu affirmed his administration's commitment to protecting local and foreign investments, stating that Nigeria is "ready and open for business." This declaration was made during the inauguration of the Sales Office and Experience Centre for the Abuja City Walk Development project. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu highlighted that the government is strengthening legal, physical, and financial frameworks to safeguard capital and guarantee returns. He described the Abuja City Walk project as a manifestation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to drive economic transformation and infrastructure renewal. The project, which has Free Trade Zone status, is expected to catalyze regional commerce, medical tourism, premium retail, and high-end hospitality. President Tinubu commended the Federal Capital Territory Administration under Minister Nyesom Wike for revitalizing the Abuja Technology Village corridor, which had been dormant for 20 years. He emphasized that his administration is ending land speculation and abandoned projects, viewing land as an asset for rapid development. Minister Nyesom Wike noted that the project aligns with the administration's goal of attracting foreign direct investment and creating jobs. Dr. Kassim Gidado, Executive Director of Link Development, described the project as a modern mixed-use district with residential estates, educational institutions, shopping malls, and a green corridor, designed to position Abu
3 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 mins ago
House of Representatives urges Nigerian youths to shape 2027 elections and national policy
The House of Representatives encouraged Nigerian youths to actively participate in the electoral process to influence the outcome of the 2027 general elections. This call was made at the Youth Town Hall, part of the 2026 National Assembly Open Week in Abuja. The event gathered lawmakers, government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, youth leaders, and students to discuss youth inclusion in governance, democratic accountability, and nation-building. House Majority Leader, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, speaking for Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, stated that the 10th House prioritizes youth development and inclusion. He noted that recommendations from previous Youth Town Halls have influenced constitutional amendment proposals and national policies. Ihonvbere described young Nigerians as the largest voting bloc, crucial for the credibility of future elections, and affirmed the House's commitment to making youths active partners in governance. He highlighted legislative initiatives including the National Youth Service Corps Reform Bill, the proposed Nigerian Youth Welfare Scheme Fund Bill, and a constitutional amendment bill to reduce the minimum age for governorship candidates to 30. Reforms in education financing, taxation, electricity, cybersecurity, and the digital economy were also cited as measures to expand opportunities for youth. Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, commended the National Assembly for institutionalizing the Youth Town Hall, empha
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·1 hour ago
Senate passes Federal Road Safety Corps amendment bill, increasing fines for traffic offenses
The Nigerian Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps Amendment Bill, 2026, which introduces new penalties and increases existing fines for various traffic offenses. The bill, awaiting presidential assent, proposes a ₦50,000 fine for individuals convicted of hawking, trading, or preaching inside commercial vehicles. This provision aims to reduce distractions and enhance commuter safety. Motorists who fail to cooperate with Federal Road Safety Corps officials during roadside breath tests based on reasonable suspicion will also face a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both. The legislation significantly raises the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000, with offenders also risking up to two years’ imprisonment or both. Disobeying traffic lights, road signs, and other traffic control devices will now incur a ₦100,000 penalty. Speed limit violations, previously ₦5,000, will now attract a ₦100,000 fine, and reckless driving will also result in a ₦100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both. The revised schedule includes 52 traffic violations, with the Senate stating that the review aims to strengthen the FRSC’s enforcement powers, improve compliance with traffic regulations, and enhance safety on Nigerian roads.