The Lagos State Government has ramped up its environmental enforcement efforts with the demolition of unauthorized structures at the Oko-Oba Abattoir in Agege, following its indefinite closure due to rampant sanitation breaches.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed the demolition in a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday.

Wahab stated that operatives from the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) carried out the removal of structures illegally erected on drainage setbacks within the abattoir.

“As part of the ongoing clean-up, officials of @LAGESCOfficial have begun dismantling illegal constructions built on drainage setbacks inside the Oko-Oba Abattoir,” he wrote.

He explained that the operation was part of a broader initiative to restore environmental order, improve hygiene, and reduce the risk of disease by ensuring unimpeded stormwater flow and proper abattoir waste disposal.

This latest action comes just days after the state government sealed the Oko-Oba Abattoir, citing numerous environmental violations — including improper meat handling, uncontrolled animal waste disposal, and encroachment on public drainage channels.

Speaking during a live appearance on Arise TV on Sunday, Wahab affirmed that the facility would remain shut until all operators comply with prescribed environmental and health standards.

“The condition we found there was appalling,” Wahab lamented. “They’ve consistently ignored our regulations, despite years of engagement and even international trips to expose them to modern practices.”

He revealed that instead of complying, some operators have resorted to slaughtering cattle in an abandoned gas station and on the streets.

According to Wahab, only about 10% of the abattoir’s mechanized infrastructure is being utilized, while most operators continue to neglect basic sanitation guidelines.

President Bola Tinubu on Monday extended warm congratulations to Dr. Awele Elumelu, Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited, on the occasion of her 55th birthday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will square off against Portugal’s senior women’s national team in an international friendly match later today in Lisbon, as part of their final preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to kick off in Morocco from July 5 to 26.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The much-anticipated warm-up encounter is slated for 7:00 PM local time (same time as Nigeria) at the Estádio José Gomes, located in the Amadora district of Lisbon.

The nine-time African champions touched down in Portugal on Sunday night after traveling from Abuja via Casablanca. An initial group of ten players and backroom staff made the trip, with former Atletico Madrid forward Rinsola Babajide linking up with the team upon arrival. An additional thirteen players are expected to join the squad at the training base in Portugal.

Today’s fixture comes on the heels of Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Cameroon earlier this month in Abeokuta. Head coach Justin Madugu had overseen several training sessions last week at both the MKO Abiola National Stadium and Turf Arena before the team jetted out to Europe.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation has announced a 24-player squad for the upcoming WAFCON. The list features the return of star forward Asisat Oshoala and Saudi-based defender Ashleigh Plumptre. However, the exclusion of in-form striker Gift Monday has stirred reactions among fans and analysts.

Also making the cut are goalkeepers Chiamaka Nnadozie and Tochukwu Oluehi; veteran defender Osinachi Ohale; midfield anchors Halimatu Ayinde, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne; and team captain Rasheedat Ajibade. The attack will be bolstered by Francisca Ordega, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo.

Following today’s showdown, the Falcons will head to Morocco for another high-profile friendly against regional rivals Ghana on Friday, June 29. The Black Queens have already begun a 14-day pre-tournament training camp in Benslimane.

Nigeria will begin their WAFCON campaign in Group B, where they will face Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. All their group matches will be played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, as they aim to clinch a record-extending 10th continental title.