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IRSDEUN Demands SON’s Dissolution, Restructuring Over Rising Building Collapses

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IRSDEUN

IRSDEUN Demands SON’s Dissolution, Restructuring Over Rising Building Collapses

IRSDEUN demands SON’s dissolution, restructuring over rising building collapses. The Iron Rod and Steel Distributors Employers Union of Nigeria (IRSDEUN) has urged the Federal Government to dissolve and restructure the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) as a long-term solution to the frequent building collapses across the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Chief Gbenga Awoyale, National President of the Union, criticized SON’s decision to reverse the shutdown of 18 companies linked to the production of substandard building materials, particularly iron rods.

He blamed alleged government interference for the decision, raising concerns about weak enforcement of quality standards in the construction sector.

Awoyale condemned the widespread use of inferior materials, which he said has led to multiple avoidable building collapses, including at least three incidents in January 2025 alone. Describing the situation as a national embarrassment, he urged the government to take bold steps to hold regulatory bodies accountable.

“The government must act decisively to prevent further loss of lives and property. Dissolving SON and restructuring its framework is the only way to ensure accountability and enforce standards,” he stated.

He also pointed out that despite SON’s legal mandate to prosecute manufacturers of substandard materials, enforcement has been hampered by corruption and collusion within the system.

“The law stipulates prosecution, yet corrupt officials allow violators to escape consequences, fueling this dangerous cycle,” Awoyale added.

The union had made a similar appeal in 2024, but no concrete action was taken, allowing unscrupulous manufacturers to continue flooding the market with inferior materials while exporting high-quality products to countries with stricter regulations.

Citing data from the Building Collapse Prevention Guild, he revealed that Nigeria recorded 47 building collapses across 14 states in 2024, with Lagos State alone accounting for 56% of cases.

The House of Representatives Committee on Steel Development also raised alarms over rampant quality violations, exposing cases where iron rods were deliberately undersized, such as 7.56 mm rods being sold as 10 mm and 9.25 mm rods as 12 mm.

IRSDEUN

IRSDEUN

Calling for urgent reforms, Awoyale stressed that dissolving SON and replacing it with a stronger regulatory agency was not just a necessity but a moral obligation.

“The time for empty promises is over. The government must prioritize public safety over the interests of a few unscrupulous businesses,” he concluded.

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Economy

NOA Strengthen Commitment To National Unity, Civic Responsibility: Ramadan

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Civic Responsibility

NOA Strengthen Commitment To National Unity, Civic Responsibility: Ramadan

NOA strengthen commitment to national unity, civic responsibility: Ramadan. According to him, Ramadan teaches us the values of compassion, sacrifice, and community support.

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has restated its commitment to fostering national unity, promoting civic responsibility, and enlightening Nigerians on critical socio-economic issues.

The director-General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated this on Saturday during his remark at the 8th Annual Ramadan Lecture Series, organised by Ashraaf Islamic Foundation in Abuja.

The theme of the lecture was titled “Ramadan Lesson on Food Security: Building Nigeria’s Path to Sustainable Economic Growth and Development.”

Mr Issa-Onilu, who was represented by Audu Mayo, the deputy director, planning research and statistics, NOA, described food security as a matter of great importance to the nation and humanity at large.

“The NOA is committed to fostering national unity, promoting civic responsibility, and enlightening Nigerians on critical socio-economic issues including food security.

“Food security is not just an economic or agricultural concern; it is a fundamental aspect of national development and social stability.

“A well-nourished society is a productive one, and ensuring access to affordable, nutritious food is essential for national growth and peace,’’ NOA DG said.
According to him, Ramadan teaches us the values of compassion, sacrifice, and community support.

“As we fast, we are reminded of the plight of those who go hungry daily, not by choice, but due to food scarcity, poverty, and economic challenges.”

The NOA boss also called for collective action from government, religious institutions, private organisations and individuals to promote sustainable agricultural practices, reduce food waste, and support policies that guarantee food sufficiency for all Nigerians.

According to him, the NOA stands firm in its mandate to educate and mobilise Nigerians towards behavioral change and national development.

He encouraged every citizen to embrace practices that enhance food security, from supporting local farmers to adopting responsible consumption habits.

“Additionally, we urge religious and community leaders to continue advocating for policies that uplift the vulnerable and ensure that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry.

Civic Responsibility

Orientation Agency

“As we reflect during this holy month, let us renew our commitment to building a nation where no one is left behind.

“May Allah (SWT) bless our efforts, grant us wisdom in leadership, and strengthen our resolve to achieve food security for all,” Mr Issa-Onilu prayed.

Also speaking, Sarafudeen Aliagan, said in his address of welcome that the foundation was established to propagate Islam and render service to humanity.

Mr Aliagan, who described the Ramadan lecture as five programmes in one event, said one of the humanitarian services rendered by the foundation was the empowerment of indigents, beggars, persons with disabilities and unemployed youths.

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Akwa Ibom

Nsik Oil, Gas Limited Sets For Groundbreaking Of CNG Facility In Akwa Ibom Community

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Nsik Oil, Gas Limited

Nsik Oil, Gas Limited Sets For Groundbreaking Of CNG Facility In Akwa Ibom Community

Nsik Oil, Gas Limited sets for Groundbreaking of CNG Facility in Akwa Ibom Community. The Management of NSIK OIL AND GAS COMPANY LIMITED has invited the general Public to witness the official Groundbreaking Ceremony of its 10MMSCF/D CNG MOTHER STATION facility at Uqua Isi Edoho in Esit Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The auspicious event billed for Thursday, 20th March 2025 will be performed by the Honorable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo by 9am prompt.

Nsik Oil, Gas Limited

Nsik Oil, Gas Limited

The Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Mr Nsikak Johnny while speaking to this reporter, described the project to be first of its kind in South-South region, that will boost the economy of the State and also create job opportunities for the teeming youths.

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Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom, Cross River Maintains Harmony, No Dispute Over 76 Oil Wells – Umo Eno

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Umo Eno

Akwa Ibom, Cross River Maintains Harmony, No Dispute Over 76 Oil Wells – Umo Eno

Akwa Ibom, Cross River maintains harmony, no dispute over 76 oil wells – Umo Eno. Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed that the state has no dispute with Cross River State over the ownership of 76 oil wells.

Speaking today during the monthly prayer meeting at the Government House Chapel, he stated that the Supreme Court had twice ruled in favor of Akwa Ibom, declaring Cross River a non-littoral State. He urged citizens not to engage in a matter that has been legally settled.

Governor Eno also emphasized the importance of respecting and honouring past and present leaders for their contributions to the State’s development.

He condemned external influences attempting to discredit Akwa Ibom leaders without factual evidence. “It is difficult to understand how individuals who are not from Akwa Ibom seek to run down our leaders on on baseless allegations.

As Governor, I can confidently say that I have seen no evidence supporting such false accusations against our past leaders.”Pastor Eno said.

The Governor encouraged citizens to continue praying for the state, the President, and the nation, emphasizing the need for divine guidance in governance.

He also urged contractors and business owners to take advantage of the newly launched state procurement portal, which provides transparent access to government contracts. He announced that over 400 jobs are currently available through the portal and encouraged qualified individuals to register.

Said he “We have several projects, including the construction of the Aviation Village, Commissioners’ Quarters, Legislators’ Quarters, and Judges’ Quarters. We will not award multiple projects to one person. These contracts will be given to qualified Akwa Ibom people who are duly registered on the portal.”

Governor Eno reiterated his commitment to fairness in contract awards, stressing that opportunities should be based on merit rather than personal connections.

“We must build a state where people can bid for and secure government jobs without knowing anyone in power.” Gov Eno stated.

He also discouraged idleness, urging citizens to embrace hard work and self-sufficiency.

Umo Eno

Umo Eno

According to him “Do not sit at home while others are working and expect us to bring you money. When you work, you will be paid for your efforts and earn your profits.”

Commending the successful organization of the Town Hall/Town Square meeting at the Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency and the seamless execution of the Equipment Support Scheme program at Uyo Township Stadium, the Governor noted that both events were conducted without incidents or disruptions.

He further announced that the next Town SquareMeeting will be held in Oron Federal Constituency, with the date to be communicated soon.

Governor Eno also expressed gratitude to the minister for delivering an inspiring homily titled “The Battle Belongs to the Lord.”

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