The naira continued to depreciate against the dollar at the official foreign exchange market on Wednesday.

According to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s data, the naira weakened slightly to N 1,531 per dollar on Wednesday from N 1,529.22 exchanged on Tuesday.

This means that the naira dropped by N1.78 against the dollar on a day-to-day basis, the highest depreciation this week.

Meanwhile, at the black market, it remained unchanged at N1,550 per dollar on Wednesday, the same rate exchanged on Tuesday.

This comes as CardinalStone’s mid-year outlook predicted that Nigeria’s external reserves are expected to rise to $41 billion by year-end.

Lagos State Government has expressed deep concern over the rising tide of substance abuse within the state and across Nigeria, calling for urgent efforts to tackle the growing threat.

Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu issued the call during the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme, ASAP, Advocacy Stakeholders Conference, organised by MTN Nigeria at its headquarters in Falomo, Lagos.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the governor described substance abuse as a “malignant cancer” eating away at the core of society and endangering the nation’s future.

“It is disheartening to witness the spread of drug abuse among our youth, with its grip extending even to our innocent children,” Salu-Hundeyin lamented.

He added: “Our young people are the lifeblood of our future. But how can a nation thrive when its strength is undermined by the devastating effects of addiction?”

She noted that the Lagos State Government is actively implementing a multi-faceted response to the challenge. Initiatives include the establishment of a dedicated mental health institute, a round-the-clock mental health support helpline, and ongoing collaboration with regulatory bodies to strengthen oversight.

“We are prioritising preventive strategies in our fight against substance abuse.

“Through the Lagos State Well-Being Programme, we have expanded school counseling services, equipped communities, schools, and religious centres with early intervention tools, and reinforced mental health awareness to stem the tide before it worsens,” she said.

Salu-Hundeyin also praised MTN Nigeria for its corporate commitment to social responsibility through the ASAP initiative.

She highlighted the programme’s investment in youth education, teacher training, and sustained national advocacy as exemplary, noting it demonstrates how the private sector can be a powerful partner in driving societal progress.

By Freedom Jidechi

The Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of ThePressman Newspaper, Deacon Daniel Opara ( Danjay), has extended warm birthday wishes to the Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Imo State Chapter, Amb.Ikenga Jeff Eze (La Jeff), on the occasion of his birthday, celebrated on July 10, 2025.

In a goodwill message, Danjay described Amb. Jeff as a man of remarkable character, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to humanity.

The Media King-Danjay praised the Union Lion-La Jeff for his role in promoting peace and grassroots development under the Shared Prosperity Administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma.

“Ambassador Jeff Eze is a true symbol of resilience and a tireless advocate for the people. May God bless him with more strength, wisdom, and longevity,” Danjay stated.

Once again, Happy Birthday,

Amb. Jeff Eze, a true ambassador of peace and progress!

Signed:
Danjay ThePressman, 10/07/2025.