Index to Nigerian Newspapers

The Federal Government in Nigeria has announced a mandatory registration of Point-of-Sales operators to reduce kidnapping and assist security agencies in arresting ransom payments. The registration process aligns with legal requirements and Central Bank of Nigeria directives, aiming to safeguard businesses and strengthen the economy. The deadline for registration is 60 days and ends on July 7th. The benefits of registration include access to loans, legality, and compliance with regulatory requirements. However, PoS agents have criticized the move, arguing it would place more burden on operators, especially in rural areas.

The House of Representatives has resolved to probe the ongoing N15tn Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which has attracted both praise and condemnation since its approval in February. The 10-lane coastal road was designed to connect Lagos to Cross River, passing through various states before culminating in Calabar. The project gained traction under the administrations of Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari but could not commence. The Ministry of Works defended the project, stating it followed due process and that House of Representatives members had pledged support for the project. The Federal Executive Council has approved and released N1.06tn for the contractor for the pilot phase of the construction. The highway was conceived as an Engineering, Procurement and Construction plus Financing project, with part-funding by the Federal Government between 15 to 30%. The approval process went through the Bureau of Public Procurement after consideration by the Federal Executive Council.