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Chinese Nationals in EFCC Net Over Illegal Mining in Akwa Ibom   Eleven suspects, including seven Chinese nationals have been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for alleged illegal mining of ilmenite in Akwa Ibom state.   Dele Oyewale, EFCC Head, Media and Publicity, said Tuesday, that Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the anti graft agency apprehended the suspects Thursday last week at Emem-Asuk, Eastern Obolo Local Government Area (LGA) of the State.   “The Chinese suspects are Yang Chaobao, 32, Zhong Dun Yi , 33, Cheng Jiang , 35, Zhong Dun Long , 37, Pan Peiming , 33, Lai Yiping, 37 and Zhu Lekun, 35.   “Their Nigerian accomplices are: David Israel, 18, Jonah Bartholomew Jim , 24, Samuel Samuel Timothy, 20, and a female translator named Comfort Gabriel Ajaga , 23”. He said   “They are operating at Eastern Obolo area where they were arrested whilst setting up mining equipment at a second location. They were already engaged in the illegal activities at their first location, mining ilmenite, locally called black sand”   The only female among the suspects said her only connection to the illegal miners was her proficiency in speaking ‘mandarin’, a widely spoken language in China.   “I am a student studying Chinese language at a Learning Centre in Anambra State and I only work with them as a translator”, she said.   “The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation”, Oyewale further stated.

AKSU gets over N14b from TETFUND in 15 years …..as Masari inaugurates projects. Akwa Ibom State University(AKSU) has received over N14billon in the past 15 years from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) for the development of key infrastructure in the institution. Chairman Board of Trustees of TETFUND, Aminu Masari disclosed this yesterday when he commissioned five key infrastructural projects worth over N7 billion at the University. Projects inaugurated included Faculty of Biological Sciences Building, Faculty of Physical Sciences Building, Faculty of Engineering Phase 1 Building, Faculty of Management Sciences Building and Faculty of Agriculture Laboratories/Classroom Administrative Buildings. Masari said that the federal government under President Bola Tinubu was committed to funding projects and advancing research in tertiary institutions across the country in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda. “Our mandate is clear: to ensure that public tertiary institutions in Nigeria are adequately equipped with the physical infrastructure necessary to enhance teaching, learning, and research. “We are committed to creating an enabling environment that stimulates creativity and innovation, thereby positioning our institutions as active contributors to national growth and development. This aligns perfectly with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration”, he said. On TETFUND’s intervention in AKSU, he said, “Since 2010, Akwa Ibom State University has consistently benefited from TETFund’s interventions. From 2010 to 2025, the University has received a total allocation of 14,476,013,835.31 (Fourteen billion, Four hundred and Seventy six million, Thirteen thousand, Eight Hundred and thirty five Naira, thirty one kobo only) specifically for infrastructure-related projects under the Annual, Special, Zonal, and Special High-Impact intervention lines. “Of this amount, a substantial portion has already been accessed, with only about N2.67 billion (Two billion, Sixty Seven million Naira only) outstanding for access as ongoing projects reach maturity and completion. “This is a remarkable achievement. With sustained judicious use of these funds, I am confident that the University will continue to position itself as a beacon of academic excellence and research, not only within this region but globally”. Masari urged the University to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities to prevent early deterioration and to guarantee maximum value from the resources invested. “Let me assure you that TETFund remains committed to supporting Akwa Ibom State University in its quest for excellence. We will continue to back your drive for creativity, research, and innovation, while sustaining our support for infrastructural development”, he said. Vice Chancellor AKSU, Professor Nse Essien in his remarks thanked the federal government through TETFUND for providing funds for the projects. He said, “The projects will add value to our university in no small measure as we put to use 189 new offices, 51 Classrooms, 40 state-of-the-art laboratories and about 237 restrooms among others. “Without being immodest, permit me to quickly emphasize how important these facilities are to our academic ecosystem: Apart from enabling more advanced research and laboratory work in fields like environmental biology, genetics, biotechnology, and microbiology, the Faculty of Biological Sciences will make a substantial contribution to preparing scientists and public health experts to tackle regional and worldwide issues. “For courses like chemistry, physics, mathematics and statistics, the Faculty of Physical Sciences offers state-of-the-art laboratories and instructional areas. This infrastructure will promote innovation, hands-on learning, and the advancement of STEM education “The founding of the Faculty of Engineering represents a turning point in the evolution of our university. This facility will accelerate our students’ disposition to receive top-notch instruction in fields vital to the development of the country, given the rising demand for engineers in the fields of oil and gas, power, civil works, and ICT”.

A’Ibom Flags-Off N2.16bn Conditional Cash Transfer Programme with 28,834 Beneficiaries The Akwa Ibom State Government has launched the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer Programme, with a total of N2,162,550,000 to be disbursed to 28,834 beneficiaries across the state’s 31 local government areas. Addressing the flag-off of the scheme in Uyo on Friday, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno described the programme as a practical demonstration of the love and care that President Bola Tinubu has for Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable. Governor Eno who was represented by the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs Helen Obareke also commended the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs for ensuring the successful roll-out of the scheme. He said the state government’s commitment to social welfare and poverty alleviation is evident in its various initiatives, including the Arise Compassionate Homes and monthly payments to elderly citizens. The Governor therefore urged beneficiaries to make good use of the humane and kind intervention and continue to support the President’s initiatives. Delivering a keynote address, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga described the programme as a stepping stone to eradication of poverty, particularly in rural areas. She expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno for implementing the programme, which she believes will have a significant impact on the lives of the people. In her words “This is one program that is of great benefit to the rural setting, the rural areas, not just in the five states, but in Nigeria at large. This is one program that I may call a stepping stone to eradication of poverty”. Dr. Godwin Akpan, State Focal Person, National Social Investment Programme, Akwa Ibom State, in his remarks said the programme is a flagship component of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at providing financial support to vulnerable individuals. He urged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely, “Let these funds be a stepping stone toward economic stability and self-reliance. We encourage every recipient to strive toward a brighter, more secure future.” He advised Highpoint of the flag-off was presentation of Debit Cards to beneficiaries of the programme.

Dismissed Soldier, Civilian to Die by Hanging Over Armed Robbery A dismissed soldier, Lance Corporal Promise Okokon Usoro, and one Odinaka Emmanuel Victor have been sentenced to death by hanging for armed robbery. In a judgement delivered by Justice Archibong Archibong of the Akwa Ibom State High Court sitting in Uyo on Thursday, the culprits were sentenced to death for robbing tricycle operators, popularly known as keke riders, at gunpoint in the capital city. It was learnt that Lance Corporal Promise Okokon Usoro, dismissed from 6 Battalion, Nigerian Army, Ibagwa Barracks, in Abak Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State robbed one Peter Daniel Okon at gunpoint of his tricycle along Idoro Road, Uyo, on February 10, 2013. Usoro, a 41 year-old indigene of Ikot Osom in Abak, who was said to be armed with AK-47 during the robbery, had earlier faced a court-martial which led to his dismissal from the army before he was handed over to the Nigeria Police for prosecution. In his confessional statement, Usoro admitted that he participated in at least three armed robbery operations targeting tricyclists in Uyo, alongside an accomplice identified as JJ, who is currently at large. He confessed that one of the stolen tricycles was sold by JJ, and he received a share of ₦50,000 from the proceeds. The second convict, Odinaka Emmanuel Victor, 32 years-old from Osisioma in Abia State, also confessed that he robbed his victim, Anyanwu Chidi Francis, along Ikot Ekpene Road, Uyo, with an AK-47 rifle in the company of the dismissed soldier on February 14, 2013. Odinaka stated in his extrajudicial statement that he was involved in a tricycle snatching operations in Port Harcourt, led by one Engr. Obuigwe. He said he was contacted by a gang member, James, on February 10, 2013, who brought him to Uyo in a Passat car for an operation, where they picked the dismissed soldier at the barracks and proceeded to rob a tricyclist. Odinaka was later arrested with the stolen tricycle, while the others fled. The convicts were tried alongside a third accused person, Ndifreke Willie Udo, a 37-year-old native of Odoro Ikot in Essien Udim Local Government Area, who was residing in Port Harcourt at the time of the incident. In his judgment, the trial judge, Justice Archibong Archibong held that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt against Lance Corporal Usoro and Odinaka Victor. The court however discharged and acquitted the third defendant, Ndifreke Udo, for lack of sufficient evidence linking him to the crime, and sentenced Promise Okokon Usoro and Odinaka Victor to death by hanging.

Customer Convenience: Ibom Air to Fly Calabar Daily, Enugu Six Days Weekly   In a bid to enhance connectivity and provide unparalleled convenience to its passengers, Ibom Air has announced the expansion of its flight schedule on the Enugu and Calabar routes.   Effective July 25, 2025, the airline will operate daily flights from Lagos and Abuja to Calabar, while flights to Enugu will operate six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday   A release signed by Aniekan Essienette, Group Manager, Marketing & Communications, Ibom Air and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Thursday indicates that “This adjustment transforms what was previously a limited-schedule operation into a more robust service offering, giving travelers greater flexibility and more options to plan their trips with confidence.   “At Ibom Air, we understand the value of consistency and convenience in travel. Expanding our flight frequency on these routes is a direct response to our customers’ needs for more choices without compromising on the schedule reliability, on-time departures, and excellent service we are known for,” said Mr. George Uriesi, Acting Managing Director and CEO, Ibom Air.   “With this development, Ibom Air continues to reinforce its promise of putting passengers first by enabling seamless connections across its growing network. More days. More options. Same great service. For flight schedules and booking information, please visit www.ibomair.com”. The release stated

Speaker Abbas Unveils Plans for National Sports Academy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has revealed plans to establish a National Sports Academy to nurture and develop the athletic talents of Nigerian youths nationwide. The proposed academy will cater to secondary school-age children discovered through grassroots competitions, providing them with a platform to grow their sporting abilities. According to Abbas, the initiative is designed to produce global sports icons that the nation would celebrate. He emphasized the need to revive grassroots sports development as a vital strategy for restoring Nigeria’s past successes on the international stage. “We cannot accept a situation where a country with over 200 million citizens returns from global competitions empty-handed,” “The academy will accommodate all outdoor and indoor sporting disciplines.. These children will be given the platform to further grow their sporting abilities” he said Also speaking, the Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu, who applauded the Federal Government and the National Assembly for significantly increasing the sports sector’s budget, also noted that supporting grassroots sports is an investment in the hopes and aspirations of the youth, adding “today marks a turning point in the country’s sports development”.

WE WILL CONTINUE TO PROTECT AKWA IBOM CHILDREN — GOV. UMO ENO …Assures Continued Welfare of Youths   The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D, has said his administration will continue to protect children of the State and also continue to cater for the welfare of youths in the State.   The Governor said these on Tuesday, when he played host to delegates from the African Union Committee of Expert on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC), at Government House, Uyo.   Represented by his Deputy, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi, Pastor Umo Eno avered that his administration remains passionate about the well-being of children and youths, maintaining that relevant legal frameworks have been put in place to secure the rights and future of Akwa Ibom children.   Governor Eno emphasized that his love and concern for children and youths of the State is evident in the provision of proper education and health care and also youth empowerment initiatives such as the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre in Ikot Ada Idem, where youths are trained on different skills and are also empowered with starter kits.   “Our concern is to ensure that every Akwa Ibom child gets proper education and healthcare. To ensure that the Akwa Ibom youths are not used in the wrong way, we engage them very positively and effectively in training, because they are the future leaders. We have a special skills acquisition centre, where they are trained and at the end of the day, they are empowered with starter kits to enable them start their own livelihood and earn a living, instead of going round to beg or getting involved in vices, and they also become employers of labour”.   Governor Eno further stressed that because of the concerns for children, there has been laws to protect and ensure the rights of children such as the Child Rights Law, which has been in existence since 2008, adding that no parent, caregiver or guardian, is allowed to maltreat a child, and that there is a department set up to monitor compliance.   The State Chief Executive also said that the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law which was put in place in 2020, as well as the Widowhood Practices Law which helps to defend any maltreated widow are also laws which are made to ensure that the rights of children and citizens are protected.   Governor Eno noted that his administration has constructed and equipped model primary schools across the State and also offers free and compulsory education, including uniforms, sandals, and books, to encourage children to go to school and be educated.   Pastor Umo Eno stressed that every Local Government Area is to own a model school and primary health centre, to ensure that children in the rural areas will have the same access to quality education and health care as their peers in the urban areas.   He maintained that his administration has a heart and conscience to ensure that the future generation of Akwa Ibom which are the youths and children, have a proper foundation and are properly protected.   Speaking earlier, the Head of Delegation and ACERWC Country Rapporteur, Hon. Robert Nanima, said the objective of the visit was to foster partnership with the state government, so as to promote and protect children’s rights.   While acknowledging the warm reception and hospitality accorded his delegation, Hon. Nanima said that they are in Akwa Ibom to work together for the protection of children.   He further commended Governor Umo Eno for his investments in healthcare, education, scholarships and the good works being done in other sectors, saying it shows exemplary leadership and excellence; he therefore urged other States in Africa to emulate.   The event which featured presentation of mementos to the Governor, had in attendance officials from the Federal Government and the Akwa Ibom State Government, including the Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien; Executive Assistant/Delivery Advisor to the Governor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; Commissioners of Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah; Justice, Uko Udom, SAN; Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Mrs. Inibeghe Etukudo; Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga; Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh; Health, Dr. Ekem John, Permanent Secretaries, amongst others.

Lafarge Africa Delivers Record Revenue of N269 Billion in Q2, Operating Profit up 153%, and Profit After Tax Surges to N84.03 billion … a 248% increase compared to same period last year. Lagos State, Nigeria, Monday, July 21, 2025. Lafarge Africa Plc, a leading innovative and sustainable building solutions company and producer of a range of cement brands, has recorded a sales revenue of N268.63 billion for the second quarter of the 2025 financial year. This revenue represents an increase of 70% from N157.80 billion that was recorded in the corresponding period in 2024. A breakdown analysis of the unaudited result revealed that operating profit for the company in the second quarter of the financial year also grew from N47.70 billion in the corresponding period in 2024 to N120.61 billion, representing a 153 % significant increase. The rise in operating profit was largely due to topline growth and operational efficiency of the company. According to the provisional results released by NGX, Profit After Tax for the second quarter rose by 248% from N24.16 billion in 2024 to N84.03 billion in the corresponding period in 2025. This rise could be attributed to strong Operational performance, relative stability of the naira with no significant FX losses. The Chief Executive Officer, Lafarge Africa, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, in a statement, explained that the exceptional performance recorded by the company in Q2 was driven by innovative product offerings, strategic operation and distribution efficiency. “Following our impressive Q1 results, Q2 performance showcases the strength of our team, market positioning, operational efficiency, cost management, and dedication to value creation. We achieved excellent financial results in Q2, with Net Sales growth of 70%, Operating Profit up 153%, and Profit After Tax growth of 248%. This strong performance closes H1 with a sales and operating profit growth of 75% and 144% respectively. This performance is driven by our innovative product offerings and strategic operational Initiatives,” Alade-Akinyemi said. He noted that the company remains mindful of the ever-evolving macroeconomic conditions, and is confident to continue to deliver value by focusing on its strategic priorities, while leveraging innovation and green growth, in line with its sustainability ambitions. “I am deeply grateful to our exceptional team, valued customers, and loyal stakeholders for their unwavering contributions and support of Lafarge Africa. Despite the challenging macroeconomic environment, your commitment continues to inspire us and strengthen our confidence in the future,” he added. He disclosed that despite challenges posed by macroeconomic activities on purchasing power, the building industry is projected to sustain its growth trajectory with the company reaping the benefits. Commenting on projections for the second half of the year, he expressed optimism of a positive outlook, anticipating that the market will maintain a growth rate consistent with the trend from the first half of the year. “We will continue to capitalise on volume opportunities across our markets while diligently managing our costs. Our commitment to sustainability remains steadfast, as we pursue our strategy of ‘Accelerating Green Growth’ through innovative building solutions that enhance stakeholder value,” he said.

GOV ENO COMMISSIONS 10.4KM UYO-UKPOM ABAK ROAD … directs employment of visually impaired law graduate into State Civil Service Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has commissioned the 10.412km Uyo – Ukpom Abak Road as part of his administration’s unrelenting effort to link the state’s rural communities to its major urban centre, Uyo. Inaugurating the road project, Governor Eno noted that the construction of the road was in fulfillment of his campaign promise to complete uncompleted projects by his predecessors. “This project was initiated by the administration of my political father, Governor Udom Emmanuel, and we had promised to complete it. Today, we are here in fulfillment of that promise because governance is a continuum.” Governor Eno commended the management of Amitec Construction Company, and the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga, for taking up the challenge to restore the road to a desirable standard. “It is our promise that we will keep connecting our rural communities to the centre, just as we keep connecting the centre of our State to the centre in Abuja. “This road project would not have been possible without the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who made sure that funds are released to our State for completion of projects,” he stated. Pastor Eno reaffirmed the State’s full support to the administration of President Tinubu towards ensuring that the President will be voted back to power in 2027 for his second term. “We will make sure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is returned to office in 2027 to continue with his good works. The same support and full votes will equally be given to our son, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for his second term, likewise myself, in order to continue with our development strides of building a peaceful and united Akwa Ibom for the good of our people,” he said. The Governor announced plans by his administration to flag off the construction of Youth-Friendly Centres in all the 31 Local Government Areas of the State, explaining that the project would galvanize young people in the hinterland and develop their skills for better productivity and profitable living. “Each Local Government Chairman will give us a space within their Local Governments so that we can build Youth-Friendly Centres for our young people to develop, upgrade, and promote their creative skills and make the best out of their lives. He therefore charged youths to rise to the occasion and get ready for the planned project that will be launched soonest to build and empower them for meaningful living and responsible impact on the society. The Governor appreciated Amitec Construction Company for donating six water borehole facilities for communities within Uyo and Abak axis where the new road spans as part of its Corporate Social Responsibilities. Pastor Eno equally commended a virtually impaired law graduate, Barr. Udeme Emmanuel Ekanem, who graduated recently from the Nigeria Law School through his sponsorship for his doggedness and directed the State Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien and the Commissioner for Justice, Barr Uko Essien Udom, SAN, to ensure his immediate employment into the State Civil Service with appropriate posting and mobilization for work. Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chairman of Uyo Local Government, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, accompanied by his Abak counterpart, Pastor (Mrs) Ime Effiong Charles, thanked the Governor for fulfilling his campaign promise to the people. He explained that the road project had been left in a deplorable state for a long time, leading to several protests, especially because the road served as a major diversion route during the construction of the Abak Road Flyover. He thanked the Governor for redeeming the image of stakeholders who assured the people of Government’s commitment to completing the project, saying that it was an evidence of democracy in action with continuity in governance. Presenting an overview of the project, Prof. Ibanga thanked Governor Eno for deploying his finisher’s anointing to complete the project which he inherited from the immediate past administration by providing over 80% funding for its completion. Analysing the project, the Commissioner said out of 10.412 kilometers, 4.4 kilometers is a total reconstruction while the rest were overlaid, and appreciated the Governor for remaining committed to his promise to the people and for his passion towards the completion of inherited projects across the State. Speaking on behalf of Uyo Local Government Area stakeholders, the member representing the State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. Uwemedimo Udo, said the Governor has wiped away the tears of his people, and assured of continuous support for the administration. Speaking on behalf of stakeholders of Abak Local Government Area,the Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong expressed appreciation to Governor Eno for putting smiles on the faces of the people and for making Abak people proud through numerous life- enhancing projects executed by the government in the area. He described the road as a great relief to Abak and Uyo people as its timely completion will revive economic activities of the area, and pledged that the people of Abak would reciprocate this kind gesture by supporting the Governor beyond 2027. On his part, the member representing Abak Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Clement Jimbo, lauded the Governor for his foresight and vision, especially for ensuring a calm political temperature, and for completing the road project which,he said, will greatly benefit his people and the State at large. The event was graced by members of the State Executive Council, members of the political class, captains of industry, the clergy, traditional rulers, and the general public.

STEAM Education and Sports Unite: Camp NexGen 2025 Empowers 150 Young People in Akwa Ibom” Let Girls Read, Run, Grow (LGRRG) has concluded its fifth iteration of Camp NexGen 2025, a STEAM and sports camp designed to empower young people, particularly orphaned youths and young girls from underserved socioeconomic backgrounds. The three-day program, held at Topfaith University in Mkpatak, Akwa Ibom State, welcomed 150 students aged 13-15, with 30% of the participants being orphaned youth and 60% female representation. LGRRG’s Founder and Board Chairman, Idara Otu, said the camp was designed to combat Africa’s youth unemployment crisis by exposing young people to high-demand career fields through engaging, hands-on learning. “The reality we face is that Nigeria’s youth unemployment crisis is real. But here lies the opportunity—we know the next 30 years of job creation is coming from STEM fields. So, the time is now to plant seeds and challenge our campers, ‘why not you’ in these careers? When these young minds can see careers in physics, mathematics, and engineering come alive before their eyes, they don’t just dream—they make plans.” She said She acknowledged support from Super Eagles Captain William Troost-Ekong, who provided professional football training, Global Air University, which provided specialized STEAM training and Topfaith University which provided venue, accommodation, and security for the camp. “The partnership with Troost-Ekong and his foundation was instrumental in the camp’s success. Troost-Ekong was directly involved in planning, fundraising, and leading daily athletic training sessions. His involvement not only provided the campers with expert training but also served as a source of inspiration. “LGRRG prioritized the needs of orphaned youths and young girls, recognizing the challenges they face in accessing quality education and opportunities. Our organization partnered with US-based Bras for Girls to provide each female camper with her first sports bra, removing a significant barrier to continued athletic participation”. She said She pledged the commitment of LGRRG to empowering young people, particularly orphaned youths and young girls, through its comprehensive programs and initiatives. She also disclosed the organization’s plan to soon break ground on a girls’ primary school in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Otu also appreciated other strategic partnerships, including Topfaith University, which provided venue, accommodation, and security for the successful hosting of the fifth iteration of Camp NexGen 2025. Also speaking, Super Eagles Captain William Troost-Ekong said, “Camp NexGen is not just about sports or science, it’s about showing the children that they belong in any room and on any field.” Our correspondent reports that this marks the fifth iteration of Camp NexGen, following previous successful camps in Lagos, Nigeria; Harare, Zimbabwe; Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; and Accra, Ghana. Let Girls Read, Run, Grow (LGRRG) was started in 2017 by Idara Otu, an Olympian who represented Nigeria in Athletics at the 2012 Olympic Games. Its mission is to build up the African girl through education, athletics, and entrepreneurship. Camp NexGen™