Nigerians still struggling with poverty, unemployment, says Speaker Abbas - Newstrends
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Nigerians still struggling with poverty, unemployment, says Speaker Abbas

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Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen

Nigerians still struggling with poverty, unemployment, says Speaker Abbas

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has said that despite efforts by leaders of the executive and the legislature, Nigeria has continued to grapple with issues of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

In an address read on his behalf by the deputy speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, at the commencement of the second session of the House, the speaker informed his colleagues that those who elected them have high expectations from them.

He said: “The expectations of our constituents remain high, and they look up to us to address pressing issues such as security, economy, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The gains of democracy must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of our citizens.”

Speaker Abbas reminded the House that “at the heart of this democratic journey has been the legislature, an institution that epitomizes the participatory character of our democracy.

“The National Assembly, comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives, has played a pivotal role in ensuring that the aspirations and interests of Nigerians are represented, laws are made for the peace and progress of the country, and the executive is held accountable.

“The 10th House, in its First Session, has continued to uphold these tenets and the legacy of previous sessions before us. Throughout our first session, each one of you has demonstrated unwavering dedication and integrity in carrying out our duties.

“We have engaged in robust debates, passed crucial legislation, conducted thorough oversight, and stood firm in representing the diverse voices of our nation. Together, we have shown what true public service looks like – selfless, principled, and committed to the common good.

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“We have passed numerous laws that have shaped our economic landscape, reformed key sectors, and strengthened our democratic institutions.

“The House introduced 1,351 bills, the highest number in any first session since 1999. Out of this impressive number, 89 bills were passed, reflecting the House’s commitment to legislative efficiency and effectiveness.

“Key bills include the Access to Higher Education Act, 2024, popularly known as the Students Loan Bill, and the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of Nigeria’s electricity sector by promoting investment in renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the Federal Audit Service Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023, strengthens financial oversight and transparency, ensuring better management of public funds and reducing corruption.

“Additionally, 679 motions were introduced, setting a record for the number of motions in the first session. One of the core functions of the legislature is oversight. Through public hearings, investigative committees, and rigorous debates, we have held the executive accountable, ensuring that public funds are used judiciously and that government policies are aligned with the needs of the people.

“Our oversight activities have led to significant outcomes, including recovering misappropriated funds and rectifying administrative inefficiencies.

“We have rigorously engaged citizens in our various activities out of the firm understanding that we are here at the people’s instance. We have considered a good number of public petitions, prioritized constituency engagements, and held productive citizens’ town halls on budget considerations, electoral reforms, and the articulation of legislative agendas.

“We couldn’t have done otherwise given our appellation as the People’s House. As we begin this second session, we must acknowledge that there are challenges ahead. Despite our efforts, Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

“The expectations of our constituents remain high, and they look up to us to address pressing issues such as security, economy, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The gains of democracy must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of our citizens.

“As legislators, we are aware that our work is far from complete. We must continue to enact laws that promote economic growth, social justice, and environmental sustainability. In this regard, we must strengthen our institutions and enhance our legislative processes.

“We must invest in capacity building for legislators and staff, improve our data collection and analysis capabilities, and foster greater collaboration with civil society and the private sector. Transparency, accountability, and public participation must remain the cornerstones of our legislative agenda.

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“As I noted in my July 4, 2023 speech, this House has been called upon to serve at one of the most challenging times in our nation’s history. However, it is a privilege to serve as a member of this esteemed House at such a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history.

“Our nation faces numerous challenges. Yet, it is precisely during times like these that strong leadership and decisive actions are needed most. We have been entrusted with the responsibility to steer our country towards a brighter future, and I have full confidence in our collective ability to rise to the occasion.

“Let me at this juncture renew my pledge as your Speaker to remain fair and open to all, irrespective of our political views and affiliations. I serve you as a servant-leader, committed to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring that every voice is heard in this hallowed chamber.

“I humbly acknowledge that my role as Speaker places me as the first among equals in this august assembly. I do not see myself as a boss but rather as a facilitator of dialogue, a preserver of order, and a champion of democratic ideals.

“We are all colleagues here, united by our shared commitment to serving the people who have entrusted us with their hopes and aspirations. Each one of us brings unique perspectives and experiences to this House, and it is through collaboration and mutual respect that we can truly serve the interests of our nation.

“I pledge to uphold the values of inclusivity, transparency, accountability, and respect for all in all our deliberations and actions.

Together, let us demonstrate to our constituents that their trust in us is not misplaced and that we are worthy stewards of their hopes and aspirations.

He announced a plan by the House to hold the first-ever House open week to mark the end of its first session and the commencement of its second session.

He said: “The event will kick off with the presentation of the House’s scorecard detailing our achievements and challenges over the past year. We will also have the honour of hosting prominent Nigerians and former presiding officers who will share their perspectives on our performance during this period. This reflective session will provide valuable insights into our strengths and areas for improvement.

“Various engagements have been planned over three days to discuss the strategic legislative priorities outlined in our Legislative Agenda. These sessions are designed to facilitate discussions, debates, and reflections on our deliberations, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to serving with integrity and diligence.

“It is my hope that this event will not only strengthen our bonds as colleagues but also reinforce our dedication to fulfilling our legislative duties with excellence.”

“Your engagement, input, and commitment are crucial in ensuring that we collectively chart a course that aligns with the interests of those we represent. Let us seize this opportunity to engage meaningfully with our people, exchange ideas, and work towards common goals for the betterment of our nation.”

Nigerians still struggling with poverty, unemployment, says Speaker Abbas

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One Killed, Five Injured as Violence Disrupts Obi-Kwankwaso Rally in Delta

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One Killed, Five Injured as Violence Disrupts Obi-Kwankwaso Rally in Delta

One Killed, Five Injured as Violence Disrupts Obi-Kwankwaso Rally in Delta

One person has been killed and five others injured following a violent clash that disrupted a political procession organised by supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, in Asaba, Delta State.

The incident occurred at about 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, along Nnebisi Road, during a one-million-man march organised by supporters of the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement.

The Delta State Police Command confirmed the casualties, disclosing that the identities of the deceased and injured persons had yet to be established as investigations commenced.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the command said it had received intelligence indicating the possibility of violence ahead of the procession.

According to the police, organisers of the rally were invited to a security meeting, where they were briefed about the identified threats and advised against holding an open-road procession.

The command said the organisers were encouraged to conduct their political activities at a designated venue where adequate security arrangements could be provided.

However, the police alleged that the organisers ignored the advice and proceeded with the procession.

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Following a distress call, police operatives were deployed to the scene and evacuated the injured victims to hospital for medical attention.

Security was subsequently reinforced in the affected area to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

The police said investigations were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the violence and identify those responsible.

Commissioner of Police, Samuel Erale, condemned the incident and reiterated that political parties were free to conduct lawful campaigns and other political activities across the state.

He, however, urged political parties and their supporters to avoid road processions in the interest of public safety and liaise with the police ahead of political gatherings to facilitate adequate security arrangements.

The command also appealed to members of the public with useful information about the incident to contact the police through 09155570008 or 09155570007.

Meanwhile, the NDC has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of being behind the attack, alleging that the incident was an attempt to intimidate opposition supporters and disrupt its political activities.

Former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and NDC senatorial candidate for Delta North, Victor Ochei, called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to order an immediate investigation and ensure that those responsible were arrested and prosecuted.

Ochei alleged that more than 30 campaign buses were destroyed during the attack, accusing suspected attackers of being mobilised by individuals allegedly connected to the ruling party.

However, Delta APC spokesperson, Valentine Onojeghghuo, dismissed the allegation, insisting that the NDC had provided no evidence linking APC members to the incident.

He described the accusation as baseless and urged the opposition party to embrace peaceful political engagement.

The Delta State Coordinator of the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, Favour Emerue, also alleged that the gathering was peaceful before suspected hoodlums disrupted the procession, leaving some participants injured.

In a separate reaction, Peter Obi condemned the reported attacks on his supporters and NDC members in Delta State, calling on the state government and security agencies to investigate the incidents and bring those responsible to justice.

The latest violence has renewed concerns about the safety of political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The police have assured residents that a thorough and impartial investigation will be conducted to establish the circumstances surrounding the clash and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the law.

One Killed, Five Injured as Violence Disrupts Obi-Kwankwaso Rally in Delta

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Power Outage: Tegbe Gives Nigerians 72-Hour Timeline as FG Moves to Restore Electricity

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FG Targets 24-Hour Electricity in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Others

Power Outage: Tegbe Gives Nigerians 72-Hour Timeline as FG Moves to Restore Electricity

ABUJA – Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has assured Nigerians that electricity supply will begin to improve within the next 48 to 72 hours as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to address the challenges responsible for the recent power outages across parts of the country.

Tegbe gave the assurance in an update on the country’s power situation amid growing complaints from electricity consumers over prolonged blackouts, particularly in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory.

The minister attributed the worsening electricity supply to a combination of planned maintenance at Egbin Power Station, inadequate gas supply to some thermal power plants and sabotage of critical transmission lines.

According to him, the challenges have reduced the volume of electricity available on the national grid, forcing grid operators to implement load shedding in some areas to manage the shortfall.

He explained that maintenance activities at Egbin Power Station, one of Nigeria’s major electricity-generating facilities, had contributed significantly to the reduction in power generation.

The minister also identified gas supply constraints affecting some thermal power stations as another factor responsible for the decline in electricity generation.

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Tegbe further alleged that sabotage of key transmission lines had restricted the use of alternative routes for supplying electricity to some locations, particularly Lagos.

He said the Federal Government was working with relevant operators to address the challenges and restore the affected generating units in phases.

“My team and I are working to return the affected generating units to service in phases, with the first units coming back online within the next 48 to 72 hours.

“We are also working with operators to improve gas supply and accelerate repairs to the damaged infrastructure,” he said.

The minister acknowledged the hardship caused by the outages, noting that the disruptions had placed considerable pressure on households and businesses in the affected states.

He apologised to electricity consumers experiencing the interruptions and thanked them for their patience, promising to provide further updates as efforts to restore supply progress.

The latest assurance follows growing public complaints over worsening electricity supply, with residents and businesses in several locations struggling to cope with prolonged outages.

The power crisis has also triggered disagreements between the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and Ikeja Electric over the causes of recent supply interruptions.

While Ikeja Electric had cited grid instability in explaining its inability to meet electricity supply obligations to some Band A customers, TCN disputed the explanation, attributing the decline largely to inadequate gas supply and reduced electricity generation.

Tegbe had earlier directed TCN, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to address operational challenges contributing to the decline in power supply.

Nigerians will now be watching closely to see whether the promised improvement materialises within the 48-to-72-hour timeframe.

Power Outage: Tegbe Gives Nigerians 72-Hour Timeline as FG Moves to Restore Electricity

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NDLEA Arraigns Two Mexicans, Four Nigerians Over Secret Meth Lab in Oyo Forest

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NDLEA Arraigns Two Mexicans, Four Nigerians Over Secret Meth Lab in Oyo Forest

NDLEA Arraigns Two Mexicans, Four Nigerians Over Secret Meth Lab in Oyo Forest

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arraigned two Mexican nationals and four Nigerians before the Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, over their alleged involvement in the establishment and operation of a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory in the state.

The six defendants were arraigned before Justice Nkeonye Evelyn Maha on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, the establishment of an illegal drug laboratory and the unlawful transportation and distribution of chemicals intended for the production of methamphetamine, a highly addictive psychotropic substance.

The defendants were identified as 56-year-old Mexican national Jose Villa Ochoa; another Mexican, 40-year-old Carrera Loaiza Arturo; and four Nigerians, Maxwell Uche Nevoh, 30; Olatunji Yusuf, 37; Bankole Akeem Owolabi, 45; and Ganiu Monsiu, 43.

According to the NDLEA, Ochoa and the four Nigerian defendants were arrested on June 17, 2026, in a forested area of Tapa village, Ibarapa North Local Government Area of Oyo State, where operatives uncovered the clandestine laboratory.

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The second Mexican suspect, Arturo, was subsequently tracked down and arrested on August 19, 2026, while allegedly attempting to flee Nigeria through the Lagos airport.

The agency disclosed that the defendants were accused of conspiring to operate a drug trafficking organisation and establishing a secret laboratory for the production of methamphetamine between December 2025 and June 2026 at different locations in Lagos and Oyo states.

They were also accused of unlawfully transporting and distributing chemical substances for the manufacture of the prohibited drug, contrary to Section 20(1)(f) and punishable under Section 20(2)(a) of the NDLEA Act.

When the charges were read to them in a language they understood, all six defendants pleaded not guilty.

Following their pleas, Justice Maha ordered that they be remanded at the Correctional Centre in Ibadan pending the commencement of their trial.

The court subsequently fixed January 26, 27, 28 and 29, 2027, for the trial.

In a related development, the NDLEA disclosed that three other Mexican nationals and seven Nigerian collaborators arrested over the alleged operation of a similar clandestine methamphetamine laboratory in a forest hideout in Ogun State on May 16, 2026, had also been arraigned before a Federal High Court in Lagos.

The court reportedly rejected their bail application and ordered an accelerated hearing of the case.

The latest development underscores the NDLEA‘s ongoing efforts to dismantle suspected international drug trafficking networks and prevent Nigeria from becoming a hub for the illicit manufacture of dangerous narcotic substances.

The agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, announced the arraignment in a statement issued on Friday, November 6, 2026.

 

NDLEA Arraigns Two Mexicans, Four Nigerians Over Secret Meth Lab in Oyo Forest

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