The Kano State Government has inaugurated its upgraded Pollution Control Laboratory, marking a major step in efforts to tackle the state’s pressing environmental challenges.

Dr Dahir Hashim, Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, inaugurated the centre on Wednesday.

He noted the laboratory was originally established over 20 years ago, following the Federal Ministry of Environment’s creation in 1999, to address environmental concerns in the region.

According to Hashim, the facility has long supported environmental regulation compliance and provided reliable data for decision-making in environmental management and policy.

The commissioner stated the upgraded laboratory now meets international standards, replacing the dilapidated facility which had suffered neglect for more than ten years.

“The laboratory now features advanced technology for water analysis, source emission monitoring, and ambient air quality checks,” Hashim said.

He added that the upgrade would help ensure industries and facilities align with Kano’s environmental regulations and best practices.

Hashim urged businesses to obtain the necessary environmental permits and licences in line with established standards and regulatory expectations.

He stressed that rapid urbanisation and industrial growth had worsened environmental degradation in several areas of the state.

“The laboratory tracks contamination in air, water, and soil, supports regulatory enforcement, and provides accurate data for informed decision-making,” he explained.

Earlier, Director of Pollution Control, Malam Ibrahim Nasir, praised the ministry’s efforts and highlighted the renovation’s benefits for public health and environmental safety.

He said the upgraded facility was now better positioned to help monitor and address environmental issues across Kano and neighbouring states. (NAN)

The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has apprehended 27 suspected drug peddlers during a coordinated raid in Gidan Drama, Malu Road, Apapa, Lagos State.

This is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the ship’s spokesman, Lt. Hussaini Ibrahim.

Ibrahim explained that NNS BEECROFT personnel identified the criminals’ hideout in Gidan Drama and dislodged them under the orders of Commodore Paul Nimmyel.

Nimmyel, represented by Executive Officer, Captain Idongesit Udoessien, said the raid followed credible intelligence received on April 5.

He stated that Operation MESA was deployed due to reports of drug peddlers operating in the area.

During the operation, 27 suspects were apprehended, including three women and 24 men, along with hard drugs and other illicit substances.

Ibrahim stated that the arrest reflects NNS BEECROFT’s dedication to curbing drug use among Nigerian youths.

He warned that illicit drugs harm young people’s health and pose a threat to national security.

The 27 suspects and confiscated items have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). (NAN)

The spokesperson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, Mr Kennedy Peretei, has resigned, citing personal interests hijacking the party’s core purpose.

In a letter to the Chairman of PDP, Arogbo 1 Ward, Ese-Odo Local Government, Peretei blamed the leadership’s indifference toward winning elections.

He wrote: “I’ve decided to quit the PDP, as its supposed leaders have no real intention of winning any elections, now or in the future.

“It’s difficult working with individuals focused solely on personal gain, using the party as a political marketplace every election cycle.”

Peretei noted he had served as the State Financial Secretary (1999–2003) and State Publicity Secretary from 2020 till date.

“I’ve contributed significantly, yet the same people have gripped the party tightly, causing repeated electoral failures over three cycles,” he stated.

He likened the party’s current state to one in an intensive care unit, now heading toward the morgue.

He criticised those using the PDP as a financial lifeline, urging them to find alternative means of livelihood.

“To those surviving on election funds and patronage, I advise finding second addresses to live more meaningful lives, not as political bandits or ‘Yes’ men,” he said. (NAN)