The Lagos State Government has announced plans to phase out annual rent payments in favour of more flexible monthly and quarterly options.

The move aims to ease the financial burden on residents, especially low-income earners who struggle with large upfront rental costs.

Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, who revealed the initiative during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing, said the initiative builds on the state’s ongoing efforts to make housing more affordable and accessible. He cited the earlier rent-to-own scheme, which allows beneficiaries to pay a five percent deposit and spread the remaining balance over 10 years, as a successful foundation for this new policy.

“That initiative was well-received, and its success encouraged us to explore new ways to reduce the pressure of yearly rent payments,” he said.

The commissioner stressed that the traditional annual rent model places an undue financial strain on many Lagosians. “We believe monthly or quarterly payment options will offer people more breathing room and reduce the stress of sourcing lump sums,” he noted.

He also confirmed that the government is engaging with landlords, property developers, and other stakeholders to address potential challenges, including enforcement and secure payment tracking.

“There are issues to resolve — landlord cooperation, payment monitoring, and enforcement mechanisms,” he said. “But discussions are ongoing, and we are listening to all sides.”

A pilot phase of the new rent structure is expected to roll out in select areas of the state.

“This is not just policy on paper. We are making real progress. We understand what this means for many families, and we are determined to make it happen,” Akinderu-Fatai concluded.

Chinese company Sun King, the world’s largest off-grid solar company, secured $80 million financing from a World Bank-backed programme to boost electrification in Nigeria.

I refused to settle for a life of clapping from the sidelines—praising politicians and their privileged children while doing little for my own development. I chose instead to invest in myself. Not for show, not for applause, but because I believe in personal growth, global exposure, and staying ready for whatever the future holds.

While many remain stuck in cycles that favor the powerful and their inner circles, I decided to chart my own course. I got a second address. I pursued an international degree. These weren’t status symbols—they were strategic moves to align with a world that rewards preparation and reinvention.

In countries where leadership often looks inward—protecting their own while the rest struggle—it becomes clear: no one is coming to save you. You have to build yourself—educationally, financially, mentally, and emotionally—to stay ahead. That’s not ambition; it’s survival.

Real growth isn’t just about stamps in your passport or diplomas on your wall. It’s about stretching your thinking, building resilience, acquiring new tools, and learning how to thrive in unfamiliar territory. That’s where real value lies—in your ability to adapt, lead, and create impact wherever you are.

Staying comfortable is risky. Today’s “secure” can vanish tomorrow. The only lasting safety net is growth. So take the leap. Read. Travel. Study. Evolve. The world is shifting fast—and it favors those who move with it.

Court Jails Hammed Saka for Hawking Naira Notes

The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the conviction of Hammed Saka, sentencing him to three months in prison for illegally hawking new Naira notes.

Justice Ayokunle Faji of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, delivered the verdict, following Saka’s guilty plea.

According to the charge presented by the EFCC, Saka was arrested on..................

Thunderstone Strikes and Kills Young Girl in Mbaiwen, Adikpo

Adikpo, Kwande LGA, Benue State – A tragic incident unfolded yesterday at Mrs. Celina Agbatse’s compound in Mbaiwen, Adikpo, as a young girl lost her life after being struck by a thunderstone.

Eyewitnesses report that the victim had gone out to fetch water when it began to rain. Seeking shelter in front of the house, she waited for the downpour to subside. Tragically, a thunderstone struck her, causing fatal injuries.

Despite immediate efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead upon arrival at the General Hospital in Adikpo. Her body has since been deposited in the hospital’s mortuary.

The community is mourning this heartbreaking loss, as residents express their grief and extend condolences to the bereaved family.

Authorities and safety experts urge the public to take precautions during thunderstorms and seek secure shelter to prevent similar tragedies.

Admin, Benue Newspoint

PRESS RELEASE BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE

My dear Rivers People,

I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.

Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.

We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.

Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.

This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.

Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court's judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.

These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.

Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.

Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.

Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.

At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.

We have always been resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.

God bless Rivers State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Sir, Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS

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A Heartbreaking Discovery: Kidnapping Den Uncovered in Imo State

Too many families in Igboland have suffered unimaginable pain, losing their loved ones to the hands of kidnappers. The recent discovery of a kidnapping camp at the boundary between Umuosinta Amuzi Obowo and Iheteafor-Ukwu Ahiazu Mbaise in Imo State has once again exposed the horrors many have endured in silence.

At this site, unmarked graves were found—silent witnesses to the fate of victims who never made it home. Some were reportedly murdered even after their families paid ransom, while others were killed outright. Scattered among the graves were stolen vehicles—Toyota Avalons, Range Rovers, Toyota Camrys, Lexus models—belonging to individuals whose fates were cruelly sealed by these criminals.

Reports indicate that this gang operates from Port Harcourt. After carrying out their evil acts in Imo State, they retreat there to hide, only to return and continue their reign of terror in the Obowo axis. Just this past Monday, witnesses say they came back to move two stolen cars, likely to sell them off.

This discovery is a painful reminder of the insecurity that plagues our land. But it is also a call to action. Our communities must stand together, and our authorities must act swiftly to dismantle these networks of terror. No family should have to endure the agony of losing a loved one in such a cruel manner.

Let’s not look away. Let’s demand justice.

#JusticeForVictims #EndKidnapping #SecureOurCommunities