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World Drug Day: Tinubu Urges Collective Action Against Drug Abuse

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday called for an all-out campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Tinubu said such a campaign should evolve into a national movement, emphasising that only a holistic and inclusive approach can successfully tackle the scourge. “To effectively tackle this problem, our approach must be comprehensive,” Tinubu declared in a keynote address delivered on his behalf by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, at the grand finale of the 2025 World Drug Day commemoration at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja. “We must foster peace. We must promote inclusive development. And we must uphold human rights every step of the way,” he said, highlighting the need to address the root causes of drug abuse such as poverty, inequality, and conflict. Tinubu argued that combating substance abuse and trafficking is not a task for the government alone but must be championed by families, civil society, youth groups, faith leaders, community organisations, businesses and individuals with lived experience. “Their voices matter. Their stories inspire. Their leadership is essential,” the President said. Tinubu noted, “Together, we can dismantle the systems that sustain this crisis. Together, we can build a future where prevention is strong, treatment is accessible, and recovery is not just possible—but celebrated.” He connected this commitment to his administration’s broader Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to address socio-economic vulnerabilities. “This has been the focus of our administration—breaking the burden of poverty, uplifting millions out of squalor, and caring for the youth through the student loan scheme and other empowerment initiatives,” he said. Tinubu also commended the leadership of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and its chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), for the agency’s globally recognised achievements in both drug supply and demand reduction. “The NDLEA’s work has not only earned praise from international partners but has also drawn further support and collaboration in the global fight against substance abuse,” he noted. In his welcome address, Marwa revealed Nigeria’s drug challenge, stressing that prevention must now be treated as a national emergency. “With a population exceeding 230 million, it is both urgent and pragmatic to prevent new individuals from being drawn into the population of drug users,” he said. According to Marwa, the NDLEA has adopted a two-pronged strategy: an aggressive crackdown on drug supply networks and a robust push for drug use prevention and rehabilitation. “Over the past 53 months, we have arrested 66,085 drug offenders, including 94 identified drug barons. We’ve seized over 11.1 million kilograms of assorted drugs and secured the conviction of 12,201 individuals”, he announced. The former Lagos military governor further revealed that 26,393 persons had undergone counselling and rehabilitation during the period, with 30 treatment centres currently in operation and seven more approved for development in the current fiscal year. Marwa praised the support of the Tinubu administration, the National Assembly, and international partners, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the US Drug Enforcement Administration, the UK Border Force, and others. Marwa said that beyond enforcement, the agency has made significant strides in community-based advocacy and prevention through its flagship War Against Drug Abuse campaign. “Every week, in all 36 states, the FCT and 14 zonal commands, WADA teams raise awareness in schools, markets, offices, places of worship and transport hubs through over 11,000 sensitisation programmes and weekly media campaigns, we have reached millions”, he said. Marwa emphasised that effective parenting and responsible teaching are frontline defences in the fight against drug abuse. “Children don’t just need money—they need the presence and guidance of their parents,” he said, urging parents and teachers to instil values and stay engaged in their wards’ lives. He also spotlighted the NDLEA’s 24/7 toll-free helpline and psychological support services as essential resources for those battling addiction. Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, in his remarks, described drug abuse as a multidimensional threat, undermining national security, public health, and economic development. “It forces organised crime, destroys the rule of law, and erodes the future of our young people—our most precious national assets,” Fagbemi stated. He emphasised the importance of integrating drug prevention into the educational system, healthcare services, and criminal justice systems. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, represented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, described the fight against drugs as “a war of necessity.” “Every life lost to addiction is not just a tragedy; it is a failure of our collective will. Every young Nigerian drawn into this abyss is a call to arms,” Dankwambo said. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Country Representative, Cheikh Ousmane Toure, said prevention, treatment, and recovery must not be seen as luxuries. “They are life-saving investments. Together, we can break the vicious cycle of drug abuse, organised crime and marginalisation, and build a safer, healthier, and more hopeful Nigeria,” he stressed.

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Bobby Deols Dramatic 15 Kg Weight Loss For His Next FilmAnd Its Not Ramayana

Bobby Deol is in the spotlight again, but this time not for Ramayana. The busy actor with an imposing screen presence and trademark roles is undergoing a dramatic makeover for a new project that has something big in store for viewers and reviewers alike. With special access to inside information and fresh photos of his dramatic new look, it’s evident that Bobby Deol is out to redefine himself once again. No longer the 90s heartthrob with his floppy hair and swoon-worthy smile, Bobby Deol has gone on to remake himself in steady succession. From his second coming with Class of ’83 and Aashram to his ferocious comeback with Animal, Deol has evolved into one of Bollywood’s most volatile and commanding artists. His last outing in Housefull 5, even a cameo, made a dent because of his gruesome portrayal of the killer, a testament to the fact that even a couple of minutes of screen space is sufficient for Bobby to draw attention to himself. Now, he’s preparing for another dramatic jump. And no, it’s not Ramayana. Based on industry sources and exclusive photographs that recently emerged, Bobby Deol has gone through a dramatic makeover for an as-yet-untitled film. The actor has lost an impressive 15 kg to get into the demanding role, demonstrating once again his commitment to his work. In the recent photos doing the rounds from the sets, Bobby Deol appears almost unrecognizable but in the most flattering way. With long hair, a heavy beard, and a salt-and-pepper moustache, Bobby’s new rugged avatar radiates a magnetic charm. He is seen donning a deep maroon shirt layered with a jacket, giving off an intense, almost brooding vibe that fans are already going crazy over. One source close to the project revealed, “Bobby Deol will be seen in a never-seen-before avatar, drastically different from his previous roles. He’s gone through rigorous physical training to lose 15 kilograms, and the transformation is not just physical. His entire body language and screen energy are different. This character demands a raw intensity, and Bobby has delivered just that.” The striking salt-and-pepper look has already become a talking point online, with many fans hailing his ability to age gracefully while experimenting with bold new avatars. Bobby Deol appears to be embracing this period of his career with a fearless energy that distinguishes him from a great many of his peers. Bobby Deol’s career has been anything but standard. With a grand start and good run in the early 2000s, his career went into decline. But instead of fading away, Bobby chose to rebuild. His second innings wasn’t just a return; it was a reinvention. With Aashram, he stepped into the OTT world and delivered one of the most hauntingly layered performances in recent memory. His villainous turn in Animal as Abrar became a fan favorite and sparked numerous discussions online for its sheer intensity and unpredictability. From being a romantic hero to a gritty antagonist, Bobby Deol is now setting his sights on breaking yet another stereotype. His upcoming projects only reinforce that thought. Bobby’s work calendar is buzzing. Aside from this mysterious transformation-based project, he’s set to appear in Ba**ds of Bollywood*, a much-awaited Netflix series directed by Aryan Khan, Shah Rukh Khan’s son. The project already has immense buzz due to the star kid’s directorial debut, and Bobby’s involvement only ups the anticipation. He’s also slated to appear in Alpha, a YRF production that stars Alia Bhatt and Sharvari in action-packed lead roles. Released in December 2025, Alpha is an important milestone in Indian cinema since, for the first time, two women are helming an action film in the YRF franchise. Bobby’s character in Alpha remains a secret for now, but given his existing track record, it’s going to be something memorable. From teen idol to one of the most unconventional and experimental actors in the business today, Bobby Deol’s is a masterclass in reinvention. The reason why his current stint is so exciting is because he can take change on board, push himself, and let his work do the talking. With a 15 kg weight loss, a whole new appearance, and a pipeline of strong projects lined up, Bobby Deol is not just returning; he’s making a statement. And as fans, we’re here for every moment of it. Tune in for more exclusive updates on Bobby Deol’s makeover, what the mystery is behind his new project, and what else 2025 holds for Bollywood’s biggest surprise comeback hero.

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Bleaching Creams With Over 2% Hydroquinone Harmful, NAFDAC Warns

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control has warned users of bleaching creams to desist from using products with excess hydroquinone to safeguard their health. NAFDAC Bauchi State Coordinator, Mr Hamis Yahaya, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Bauchi on Tuesday. Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent used to treat hyperpigmentation, such as melasma and age spots. Yahaya said that the approved quantity of the chemical substance in cosmetics was only two per cent. According to him, NAFDAC conducts checks on market products to ensure public health. “The black colour provides natural protection against harmful radiation due to melanin content. “Applying creams with hydroquinone contents more than two per cent is harmful. Mixing creams by non-experts is wrong. “Hydroquinone affects the health of the users gradually, including causing cancer,” he said. Yahaya urged the media to create awareness in order to stem down the use of cosmetics that would endanger the lives of consumers NAN

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NMA Gives FG 21-day Ultimatum, Threatens Strike Over Pay, Others

The Nigerian Medical Association has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to meet its demands in order to avert industrial action in the health sector. The association, which made this known at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, expressed disappointment and condemned the circular on the consequential adjustment of allowances under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure for medical and dental practitioners in Nigeria. A copy of the speech of the NMA President, Bala Audu, made available to our correspondent, noted that the association rejects the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission’s circular (SWC/5/04/5.218/III/646), dated June 27, 2025, on the review of allowances for medical and dental officers in the Federal Public Service. Audu said the circular from the NSIWC violates previous Collective Bargaining Agreements with the government, adding that the recent development has worsened already existing tension among doctors who remain committed to serving in Nigeria despite ongoing challenges. “The Nigerian Medical Association expresses grave disappointment and unequivocally condemns the circular purportedly issued to address the consequential adjustment of allowances under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure for medical and dental practitioners in Nigeria. “The circular is grossly inadequate, misleading and constitutes a flagrant violation of the spirit and letter of the agreements painstakingly reached during the collective bargaining process between the NMA and the Federal Government of Nigeria. “We want to bring this to the attention of Mr President, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), the National Assembly and the general public whom we are under oath to always protect and promote their wellbeing. “We reject this new circular in its entirety and demand a new circular that reflects previous agreements reached,” Audu said. He stressed that the principles of fairness and justice must guide the adjustment of allowances as previously agreed. He further noted that while the association had submitted the correct salary structure table as requested by the relevant government bodies, it was disappointed to find it was disregarded. “Our demands include but are not limited to the immediate withdrawal of the circular on review of allowances for medical/dental officers in the federal public service dated 27th June, 2025; immediate correction of consequential adjustments in line with the agreements of 2001, 2009, and 2014 CBAs; immediate correction of the relativity agreed between CONMESS and Consolidated Health Salary Structure and compliance with relativity in all professional allowances in accordance with the 2001 CBA, particularly regarding call duty allowances, and the payment of all accrued backlogs. “The immediate settlement of all outstanding arrears of 25/35 per cent CONMESS, clinical duty and accoutrement allowances owed to medical and dental practitioners; the immediate payment of Medical Residency Training Fund for 2025, and review of the MRTF to reflect prevailing economic realities; the immediate convocation of the long-overdue Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations on CONMESS; the immediate Release of the Circular on Clinical Duty and other allowances for honorary consultants as agreed in January 2024. “The implementation of scarce skills allowances for medical consultants; approval of specialist allowances for all doctors; approval of excess workload allowances for all doctors; adoption of relativity in all professional allowances in accordance with the 2001 CBA, particularly regarding call duty allowances; compliance with CBA of 2021 on hazard allowances; implementation of subsisting CONMESS circular of 2024 for house officers; and universal application of the CONMESS across all Federal and State Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to combat internal brain drain.” Other demands include the provision of comprehensive health insurance coverage for all medical and dental practitioners; the immediate constitution of management boards for federal hospitals to improve governance and operational efficiency as stipulated in the Acts for Federal Tertiary Institutions; issuance of a circular implementing the reviewed retirement age for medical and dental practitioners; and the implementation of robust welfare and well-being packages, including comprehensive health and social support for healthcare workers. They also demand the immediate reversal of the appointment of other healthcare professionals as consultants in hospitals, citing patient safety and the need to maintain medical care standards. The NMA President emphasised that the association has consistently engaged in dialogue with relevant government agencies and the Federal Ministry of Health in good faith, and remains committed to continued dialogue as long as their rightful entitlements are appropriately addressed. “As a responsible and responsive association that understands and respects values, we have painstakingly and repeatedly engaged in dialogue with the relevant agencies of government and the Federal Ministry of Health. “We have exhibited so much goodwill and intend to continue the same as long as we get our appropriate and timely dues. “We hereby expect that attention will be given to our demands within the next 21 days to avert disruption in the health services rendered to the Nigerian people,” he added.