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  • Dry Skin Care: Dermatologists Outline Effective Daily Routine for Healthy Skin

    Dermatology experts have advised individuals with dry skin to adopt a structured and gentle skincare routine to maintain healthy skin, prevent irritation and slow premature ageing.

    According to skin care specialists, dry skin occurs when the skin lacks sufficient moisture and natural oils, leading to symptoms such as tightness, flaking, rough texture, itching and, in severe cases, cracking and inflammation. They stress that proper daily care, rather than frequent product changes, is key to managing the condition.

    Importance of Gentle Cleansing

    Experts recommend the use of mild, non-foaming cleansers specifically formulated to cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Harsh soaps and alcohol-based cleansers, they note, often worsen dryness and compromise the skin barrier.

    They advise cleansing the face with lukewarm water, as hot water removes essential oils and increases moisture loss. Cleansing should be done no more than twice daily.

    Hydration as a Core Step

    After cleansing, dermatologists emphasise the importance of hydration through the use of hydrating toners or essences. These products help replenish water lost during washing and prepare the skin to absorb moisturising products more effectively.

    Hydrating serums containing ingredients that attract and hold water in the skin are also recommended. Specialists advise applying such products to slightly damp skin to enhance absorption and effectiveness.

    Moisturising to Protect the Skin Barrier

    Moisturising is described as the most critical step in dry skin care. Skin experts explain that moisturisers help seal in hydration, repair the skin barrier and protect against environmental damage.

    They recommend rich creams or balms formulated with skin-repairing ingredients, noting that lightweight lotions may not provide adequate nourishment for dry or very dry skin.

    Sun Protection for Dry Skin

    Contrary to common misconceptions, experts stress that dry skin also requires daily sun protection. Exposure to ultraviolet rays, they say, accelerates skin ageing, worsens dryness and weakens the skin barrier.

    Cream-based sunscreens with adequate sun protection factor are advised for daily use, particularly in sunny climates.

    Night-time Skin Repair

    At night, dermatologists recommend gentle cleansing to remove sunscreen and environmental impurities accumulated during the day. Night creams or sleeping masks with richer textures are encouraged to support the skin’s natural repair process during sleep.

    For individuals addressing signs of ageing or rough texture, experts advise the careful use of mild treatment products only a few nights per week, followed by adequate moisturising to prevent irritation.

    Weekly and Lifestyle Care

    Specialists caution against frequent exfoliation, recommending gentle exfoliation no more than once weekly for dry skin. Hydrating masks may be used one or two times a week to boost moisture levels.

    Lifestyle habits such as adequate water intake, avoiding prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions and applying skincare products immediately after washing are also highlighted as essential for managing dry skin.

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    Experts warn against over-cleansing, excessive use of active ingredients and skipping moisturiser due to temporary oiliness, noting that such practices often worsen dryness and sensitivity.

    They conclude that consistency, gentle products and adequate hydration remain the foundation of effective dry skin care, urging individuals to seek professional advice if dryness persists or is accompanied by severe irritation.

  • DSS Arrests Alleged Mastermind of Church Attack, Banditry Activities

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a key terror suspect believed to be a major coordinator of violent attacks and banditry activities in parts of the country.

    A senior security source disclosed on Friday that the suspect, identified as Shafiu Usman, was apprehended after weeks of intelligence-led surveillance and covert operations carried out by the DSS.

    The source said the suspect is alleged to be the mastermind behind the deadly 2025 attack on the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Ayetoro, Kogi State, as well as several kidnapping and banditry operations across the North-Central and North-West regions.

    According to preliminary investigations, Usman maintained strong operational links with armed criminal networks involved in kidnapping for ransom, arms trafficking and the coordination of logistics for terror cells operating across state boundaries.

    Items recovered from the suspect at the point of arrest included communication gadgets, documents and materials believed to be vital to ongoing investigations aimed at dismantling terror and bandit networks.

    The source noted that the arrest followed actionable intelligence indicating plans by the suspect and his associates to carry out further attacks on soft targets and critical infrastructure.

    “The operation was carried out quietly to avoid civilian casualties, and investigations are ongoing to track and apprehend other members of the network,” the source said.

    The DSS reaffirmed its commitment to proactively identify, track and neutralise threats to national security through enhanced intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration.

    The suspect is currently in DSS custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

    The development comes amid renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of the country, with the Federal Government reiterating its resolve to strengthen the nation’s intelligence architecture and restore peace and stability nationwide.

  • Tinubu Urges Senate to Fast-Track Security Reforms, Address Wage Challenges

    President Bola Tinubu has urged the Senate to urgently act on key security reforms and pressing wage-related challenges, stressing that decisive legislative support is critical to stabilising the country and improving citizens’ welfare.

    The President made the appeal in Abuja on Tuesday while addressing members of the National Assembly, where he highlighted the need for stronger laws, adequate funding, and institutional reforms to confront Nigeria’s evolving security threats.

    Tinubu said the Federal Government had intensified efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime, but noted that legislative action was required to consolidate gains made by security agencies.

    He emphasised that security reforms must include improved intelligence gathering, better coordination among security institutions, and sustained investment in modern equipment and personnel welfare.

    According to him, insecurity not only threatens lives and property but also undermines economic growth, investor confidence, and national unity.

    On labour and wage matters, the President acknowledged the economic pressures faced by Nigerian workers amid rising living costs, assuring that his administration remained committed to policies that would promote fair wages, job creation, and social protection.

    Tinubu said ongoing discussions with organised labour and other stakeholders were aimed at achieving sustainable wage solutions that balance workers’ welfare with the nation’s fiscal realities.

    He urged lawmakers to give priority to bills and motions that support economic reforms, enhance productivity, and protect vulnerable citizens.

    Responding, Senate leaders assured the President of their readiness to work with the Executive to address security and economic challenges confronting the country.

    They pledged that the Senate would give accelerated consideration to security-related legislation and labour reforms that would strengthen national stability and promote inclusive growth.

    Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges across several regions, while wage negotiations remain a major national issue following recent economic adjustments by the Federal Government.

  • Naira Weakens Against U.S. Dollar as FX Market Shows Mixed Signals

    The Nigerian naira continued to exhibit fragile performance against the United States dollar on Thursday, as official and parallel market indicators reflected persistent volatility in the foreign exchange (FX) market.
    Data from financial platforms and Bureau De Change (BDC) operators show that the dollar to naira exchange rate on Thursday stood at approximately ₦1,350 per $1 USD in the official window, with slight intraday fluctuations. The naira’s trading range on major FX tracking platforms indicated a bid-ask spread of about ₦1,347 to ₦1,355 per dollar in official market trades.

    In the parallel or black market, sources quoted exchange rates ranging from ₦1,345 to ₦1,355 per $1 USD, underscoring a continued but modest convergence with formal market rates.

    Analysts attributed the relatively narrow gap between official and parallel market rates to ongoing interventions by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and an uptick in foreign exchange inflows in recent weeks.

    However, the naira’s recent performance remains under pressure compared with earlier periods, with traders reporting instances of depreciation over the past days. Official FX data showed the naira weakened to about ₦1,359 per dollar at the close of trading on Wednesday, reflecting downward pressure in the formal market.

    Policy developments have also been shaping market sentiment. The CBN has recently adjusted monetary policy settings — including a modest cut in its benchmark interest rate — in a bid to stimulate economic activity while managing inflation. Experts continue to watch how these policy shifts impact FX dynamics and investor confidence.

    Meanwhile, political and economic leaders have offered varying outlooks on the naira’s future. Government officials have pointed to structural reforms and increased foreign investments as potential stabilising influences on the currency, while cautioning that market forces and liquidity dynamics will remain key determinants in the near term.

    Observers note that demand for dollars — driven by import requirements, external payment obligations, and speculative activity — continues to exert pressure on the naira. Despite this, some segments of the market reflect optimism that improving FX supply and targeted policy measures may support relative stability in the coming months.

    This report will be updated as fresh FX market data and official figures become available.

  • How to Take Care of Your Skin at Night

    Proper nighttime skincare plays a vital role in maintaining healthy, radiant skin, as the body naturally repairs and regenerates skin cells during sleep. Dermatologists say adopting a consistent night routine helps prevent premature ageing, dryness, acne and dull complexion.

    Experts note that night care differs from daytime skincare because the skin is free from exposure to sunlight, pollution and makeup, allowing treatment products to work more effectively.

    Below is a detailed guide on how to take care of your skin at night.

    1. Cleanse Thoroughly

    Cleansing is the foundation of nighttime skincare. It removes dirt, sweat, excess oil, sunscreen and makeup accumulated throughout the day.

    Skin specialists advise using a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type:

    • Dry skin: Cream or hydrating cleanser

    • Oily or acne-prone skin: Foaming or gel cleanser

    • Sensitive skin: Mild, fragrance-free cleanser

    Double cleansing may be necessary for those who wear heavy makeup or sunscreen.

    2. Use a Toner (Optional but Beneficial)

    Toners help rebalance the skin’s pH, tighten pores and prepare the skin to absorb treatment products.

    Hydrating toners are recommended for dry skin, while exfoliating or clarifying toners may benefit oily or acne-prone skin when used sparingly.

    3. Apply Treatment Products

    Nighttime is ideal for targeted treatments because the skin is in repair mode.

    Common treatments include:

    • Serums: Such as vitamin C alternatives, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide or retinol

    • Spot treatments: For acne or dark spots

    • Anti-ageing products: To reduce fine lines and improve elasticity

    Experts caution against overusing active ingredients, as this may cause irritation.

    4. Moisturise Properly

    Moisturising helps seal in hydration and supports skin repair overnight.

    Dermatologists recommend:

    • Lightweight lotions for oily skin

    • Rich creams or night masks for dry or ageing skin

    A good night moisturiser helps prevent moisture loss and strengthens the skin barrier.

    5. Don’t Forget the Eye Area

    The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate. Applying an eye cream can help reduce puffiness, fine lines and dark circles.
    Products containing peptides, caffeine or hyaluronic acid are often recommended.

    6. Lip Care Matters

    Lip care is often overlooked. Applying a nourishing lip balm before bed helps prevent dryness and cracking.

    7. Maintain Good Sleep Habits

    Skincare experts stress that products alone are not enough. Quality sleep supports skin regeneration.

    They advise:

    • Sleeping 7–9 hours nightly

    • Using clean pillowcases

    • Avoiding touching the face while sleeping

    8. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

    Drinking enough water and consuming fruits, vegetables and healthy fats support skin health from within.

    Conclusion

    Consistent nighttime skincare, combined with healthy lifestyle habits, can significantly improve skin appearance and texture over time. Experts emphasise patience, noting that visible results may take several weeks.

    They also advise consulting a dermatologist before introducing strong active ingredients, especially for sensitive skin.

  • PDP Factions in Bitter Dispute Over March National Convention

    The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepened on Thursday as rival factions led by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, locked horns over the legality and conduct of the party’s scheduled national convention in late March.

    The Wike-aligned Peoples Democratic Party National Caretaker Committee, headed by Acting National Chairman Mohammed Abdulrahman and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, has reaffirmed that the national convention slated for March 29–30, 2026 in Abuja will proceed as planned despite ongoing legal challenges. The committee confirmed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been formally notified of the convention.

    In an exclusive interview with The Sources, PDP National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Mohammed and committee member Okechukwu Osuoha said party structures across the country were being mobilised for a “fully inclusive convention” aligned with the party constitution and the Electoral Act. “Our party is determined to elect a new set of leaders who will pilot the affairs of the party. We are not distracted by the ongoing litigation,” Mr. Mohammed said.

    Divergent Claims from Makinde-Led Camp

    Contrastingly, the Makinde-backed faction, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Tanimu Turaki (SAN), has rejected the Wike-aligned group’s authority to organise the convention, describing it as illegitimate. The faction’s spokesman, Ini Ememobong, criticised the planned exercise as “an exercise in futility,” adding that Mr. Wike’s bloc “lacks the capacity and locus” to conduct party business, asserting that those involved “have been expelled from the PDP.”

    Legal Backdrop and Heightened Tensions

    The political feud dates back to January 30, when a Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, annulled the party’s November 15, 2025 national convention in the city and restrained Mr. Turaki and others from acting as PDP national officers. Prior to that ruling, a cohort of PDP governors — including Governor Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed — had endorsed the Ibadan convention outcome, which elected Turaki and his National Working Committee for a four-year term.

    In response to the annulment, the Wike-allied faction constituted a 13-member caretaker committee in December 2025, with a 60-day mandate to lead the party, a development that has fuelled factionalisation. Efforts to reconcile the factions at Wadata Plaza in November 2025 reportedly ended in chaos and physical clashes, prompting the police to seal the party’s national headquarters in Abuja, where it remains closed.

    The dispute is currently before the Court of Appeal, with both camps seeking recognition from INEC. However, the electoral body has so far declined to officially recognise either faction, compounding uncertainties as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.

    Outlook Ahead of Convention

    Despite the legal uncertainty, the Wike-aligned leadership insists the March 29–30 convention will go ahead, emphasising that preparations are underway nationwide and that eligible party members remain committed to the process. “It is going to be an all-inclusive exercise,” Mr. Osuoha stated, underscoring the party’s organisational reach across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.

  • FG Activates B’Odogwu Platform, Opens Application Portal for Trade Stakeholders

    The Federal Government has activated B’Odogwu, a homegrown digital platform designed to simplify and modernise trade and customs operations in Nigeria, as part of reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    B’Odogwu, officially known as the Unified Customs Management System, was developed by the Nigeria Customs Service to streamline customs procedures, enhance transparency, and strengthen revenue generation across the country’s trade ecosystem.

    The Federal Government of Nigeria said the platform is central to ongoing efforts to modernise trade administration as Nigeria’s economy gains momentum.

    According to Customs, B’Odogwu integrates multiple customs and trade processes into a single digital platform, enabling importers, exporters, customs agents and other stakeholders to process documentation, submit declarations, and track transactions in real time.

    The system is designed to reduce paperwork, minimise human interface, cut processing time at ports and border posts, and improve compliance with customs regulations.

    Officials noted that the platform will also boost revenue assurance by automating assessments, improving data accuracy and strengthening oversight across trade operations.
    Stakeholders in the trade and logistics sector have been urged to begin onboarding on the platform to enjoy seamless customs clearance and improved ease of doing business.

    To apply and start using the B’Odogwu platform, interested users are advised to visit the official portal via the application link:

    https://bodogwu.customs.gov.ng

    The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to deploying digital solutions to improve public service delivery and position Nigeria as a competitive hub for regional and global trade.

  • Tinubu Calls on National Assembly to Fast-Track Constitutional Amendment for State Police

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has intensified the discourse on security restructuring by urging the National Assembly to initiate the process of amending the 1999 Constitution to pave the way for the creation of State Police forces across Nigeria.

    Speaking on Wednesday night during an interfaith Iftar breaking of fast with members of the Senate at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the president framed the constitutional change as a necessary response to escalating insecurity nationwide — particularly terrorism, banditry and insurgency.

    Tinubu said Nigeria’s current centralised policing model under the Nigeria Police Force has proved insufficient to stem “marauders” in forests and protect citizens — especially children — from fear and violence. “What I am asking for tonight is for you to start thinking how best to amend the Constitution to incorporate the State Police … for us to secure our country,” he told senators.

    A Renewed Push Amid National Security Concerns

    The president’s call builds on his earlier promise last Monday to state governors that the establishment of state police “will not be postponed,” signaling a sustained commitment to security reform.

    Recent debates among state assemblies and other stakeholders have also pushed for state policing as a tool to empower local authorities and improve responsiveness in remote and high-risk regions. Analysts argue that devolving policing powers could complement federal security efforts and embed community-specific strategies into Nigeria’s broader security architecture.

    Yet the constitutional amendment process remains complex: any change must garner a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly and be ratified by at least 24 of the 36 state Houses of Assembly.

    Political Unity and Broader Governance Agenda

    In his address, Tinubu also touched on recent political criticisms, including opposition allegations that his administration is eroding political plurality through defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress. He dismissed those claims and called for unity among political leaders to confront the nation’s security and governance challenges.

    Tinubu credited members of the National Assembly for backing key economic reforms — notably the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market — and described Nigeria as enjoying “a stable economy” poised for prosperity.

    Security Reform at a Crossroads

    The idea of state police has long featured in discussions on federal restructuring, with supporters arguing it could localise security operations and improve accountability. Critics, however, caution against possible politicisation and financial burdens on sub-national governments if not properly regulated.

    As the Senate begins its Ramadan recess, many observers are watching closely to see whether constitutional review committees will adopt Tinubu’s proposal and how swiftly the legislative-executive partnership can translate it into actionable constitutional reform.

  • Media Professionals Call for Action on Climate Crisis Affecting Abuja Indigenous People

    Media professionals and climate advocates have raised serious concerns over the escalating effects of climate change on indigenous populations in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), calling on federal and regional authorities to take urgent, actionable steps to address environmental degradation and its socioeconomic consequences.

    Speaking at a workshop in Lagos titled “50 Years After Abuja: Climate Change and Livelihood of Abuja Original Inhabitants (AOI),” journalists highlighted how decades of climate shifts, coupled with urban expansion, have imperilled the way of life of original inhabitants of the Abuja region.

    Organised by the Network of Journalists on Indigenous Issues (NEJII) in collaboration with the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) and supported by the MacArthur Foundation, the event brought together media professionals and community representatives to discuss the intersection of climate change, land rights and cultural survival.

    Climate Change: From Environmental Issue to Existential Threat

    In a keynote paper titled “Abuja Original Inhabitants and the Task of Living with Climate Change,” Mr. Olalekan Adetayo, Editor of PUNCH Digital, recounted first-hand observations of shifting weather patterns during his time as Abuja State House Correspondent. He explained that climate change in the region has been driven by industrialisation, deforestation, bush burning, mining activities, grazing pressures and rapid urban expansion under the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

    “For Abuja Original Inhabitants, climate change manifests in the flooding of rural settlements, loss of arable land, forest depletion, water scarcity, increased heat stress and declining biodiversity,” Adetayo said, noting that these changes have deepened socioeconomic vulnerabilities among indigenous groups including the Koro, Nupe, Gwari, Ganagana, Ebira and Gade communities.

    He warned that the impacts of climate variability extend beyond environmental degradation, affecting farming cycles, crop yields, livestock survival, and access to clean water — ultimately fuelling poverty, displacement and social tensions. “When agriculture fails, poverty increases and displacement follows. Climate vulnerability is therefore not only environmental — it is economic and existential,” he added.

    Calls for Climate Justice and Inclusive Policy

    Adetayo stressed the need for climate justice that recognises indigenous communities as partners in sustainable development rather than obstacles to progress. He urged policymakers to ensure equality, non-discrimination, constitutional inclusion, participation in environmental decision-making and access to climate finance for marginalised groups.

    Participants also called on journalists to elevate climate reporting beyond generic disaster coverage to include structural analysis, humanised storytelling, accountability reporting and the amplification of indigenous voices in environmental governance.

    In his welcome address, Mr. Adewale Adeoye of NEJII underscored the crucial role of the media in national development, peacebuilding and conflict prevention, noting that neglect of Abuja’s original inhabitants remains a pressing national concern.

    On-the-Ground Effects and Urgent Needs

    Other speakers, including Mr. Fabian Anawo of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, outlined the observable impacts of climate change in indigenous settlements, such as irregular rainfall, altered weather patterns, heat stress in previously temperate areas, loss of wind-breaker trees, destruction of farms and homes, and dwindling plant and animal species — all affecting food security and community resilience.

    The journalists’ network pledged to elevate the plight of AOIs to both national and regional platforms to stimulate institutional responses to these challenges, emphasising that indigenous knowledge systems and custodianship of the environment must be integrated into climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.

  • Jigawa Secures FAAN Approval for Cargo Operations at Dutse International Airport

    Jigawa State Government has secured formal approval from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to install cargo handling infrastructure at Dutse International Airport, a development expected to position the airport as a key cargo hub in northern Nigeria.

    Governor Umar Namadi disclosed this milestone on Sunday, during a routine facility inspection and calibration exercise by a technical team from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), who were on site to assess the airport’s navigational aids and ensure compliance with international aviation standards.

    Speaking to newsmen in Dutse, the governor said the approval marks a significant step in his administration’s strategic plan to expand the operational capacity of the airport. Namadi emphasized that ongoing discussions with FAAN culminated in the clearance to begin installing cargo infrastructure in preparation for full cargo operations at the facility.

    “This is an important day for us in our efforts to ensure that all airport facilities in Jigawa State operate in accordance with global best practices,” Namadi said, noting that adherence to aviation safety and performance standards remains a top priority.

    He also commended the airport management and technical teams for their proactive approach to safety, particularly through the ongoing calibration process, which he described as critical to maintaining high levels of operational readiness.

    Governor Namadi assured that the state government would continue to invest in the airport’s infrastructure and ensure necessary facilities are commissioned and fully operational to support cargo activities.

    Officials from FAAN and NAMA reiterated that the installation of cargo facilities would bolster the airport’s capacity to handle freight, strengthen regional trade linkages and contribute to expanding non-oil export potentials in the North-West and beyond.

    Dutse International Airport, initially built in 2010, has since been earmarked for transformation into a logistics and cargo processing centre, a move seen as part of broader efforts to enhance Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and diversify revenue streams.

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