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A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Abia state, Prince Paul Ikonne, has called on Governor of Abia, Alex Otti, to desist from chasing political clout with the name of the leader of the outlawed group, the Independent People of Biafra ( IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Prince Ikonne said the governor’s recent public remarks on the issue of Nnamdi Kanu were nothing but a desperate attempt to gain attention.

Addressing a large gathering of Ukwa la Ngwa youths who paid him a courtesy visit at the weekend, Prince Ikonne expressed deep concern that Governor Otti appeared to have continued to use sensitive national issues to distract Abians from his growing record of underperformance.

In a statement released Saturday in Abuja, by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Ujo Justice Ikonne, said: ‘It is unfortunate that Governor Otti has chosen to play politics with the emotions of the people by dragging the name of Nnamdi Kanu into his failing government narrative.’

Prince Ikonne described Governor Otti’s administration as ‘a government of repainting, rebranding of some old structures while claiming new achievements.’

He added that Abians are now wiser and will no longer be deceived by mere aesthetics or photo opportunities.

On the issue of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the APC chieftain said: ‘For more than two years in office, Governor Otti never paid a visit, never made a concrete intervention, and never demonstrated any concern about Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s situation. Now that his government’s credibility is collapsing, he suddenly remembers Kanu. That is hypocrisy at its peak,’ Ikonne said.

He emphasised that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom without Alex Otti’s political grandstanding and urged the governor to stop exploiting the issue for personal and political advantage.

‘Let me thank my friend and brother Hon. Obi Aguoch and Hon. Ichita for their efforts towards the freedom of Mazi Nnamdi which I believe will bring good results very soon.’

Prince Ikonne further encouraged Abia youths to remain vigilant, courageous, and firm in demanding accountability from their leaders, noting that no amount of propaganda can substitute for genuine performance.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring consistent financial support to state governments and for creating national frameworks aimed at stabilizing the economy. Ikonne expressed disappointment that while such resources are available, the Abia State Government has failed to translate them into real developmental results.

‘Leadership is about impact, not impression. Abians deserve real projects, and visible progress – not endless excuses, photo-ops, and political drama.’

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has cautioned applicants participating in its 2025 recruitment exercise to disregard social media posts claiming to reveal the number of shortlisted candidates per state for the final stage of recruitment, describing the information as false and unverified.

The Service reaffirmed that its recruitment process remains transparent, merit-driven, and aligned with global best practices.

In a statement shared on X on Saturday, titled ‘Unverified Social Media Post on 2025 Nigeria Customs Service Recruitment Exercise,’ the NCS clarified that the viral publication did not originate from the Service or any of its authorised communication channels.

‘The Service wishes to categorically state that the publication did not originate from the Nigeria Customs Service or any of its authorised communication channels,’ the statement read. It urged members of the public, particularly applicants, ‘to disregard the information in its entirety.’

Reiterating its commitment to a credible and fair process, the NCS stated, ‘The Nigeria Customs Service remains firmly committed to a selection process consistent with global best practices and in line with the principle of Federal Character.’

The Service noted that all official updates are communicated directly to shortlisted applicants through the Recruitment Update Portal at https://updates.customs.gov.ng.

It also reminded the public that the official recruitment exercise, which commenced on December 27, 2024, received 573,523 applications across the Superintendent, Inspectorate, and Customs Assistant cadres. Following documentary screening, 286,697 candidates were shortlisted for the first phase of the Computer-Based Test (CBT), which was conducted in batches ‘to ensure fairness and system efficiency.’

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to honour the agreements and understandings reached among the legacy parties-the ANPP, ACN, CPC, and others-that merged to form the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The president made this known in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, during a ceremony where over 64,000 members of opposition parties formally defected to the APC.

Represented by the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, President Tinubu assured that justice and fairness would be extended to all political blocs that contributed to the formation of the ruling party.

He added that his administration would continue to uphold the APC manifesto, which prioritises the welfare of citizens in both rural and urban communities.

Buni noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda was already delivering results in key sectors, stressing that the administration was focused on repositioning the economy and improving living standards.

‘You are all living witnesses that food prices have started coming down to a level the common man can afford. Government will continue to ensure the welfare of the people,’ he stated.

He further disclosed that the Federal Government would intensify its support for farmers through the provision of inputs and implements to boost agricultural production.

On infrastructure, the president directed the speedy completion of the remaining sections of the Kano-Maiduguri highway without further delay.

President Tinubu commended Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State for his developmental strides and inclusive governance, which he said had attracted massive defections from opposition parties.

He assured the new entrants of equal rights and privileges within the APC. In his remarks, the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwada, described the defection of over 64,000 people as a strong indication of the ruling party’s dominance in the state.

‘What we have seen today is a clear testimony that Jigawa is for APC and APC is for Jigawa. We are confident of winning all elective positions in 2027,’ he said.

Professor Yilwada congratulated the new members, saying, ‘You have returned home. Your decision is timely and commendable.’

Governor Namadi also lauded President Tinubu for his leadership style and commitment to fairness across all regions.

He presented the compiled list and political profiles of the defectors to the national chairman during the event.

All Nigerian pilgrims performing the 2026 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have been mandated by authorities of the Kingdom to receive a dose of the Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV) or Oral Polio Vaccine (bOPV/novel OPV2).

This was contained in the circular on health requirements and guidelines for pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj (1447 AH) released by Saudi health authorities, outlining the mandatory and recommended medical conditions that intending pilgrims must meet before embarking on the pilgrimage.

The Saudi health authorities insistence on all Nigerian pilgrims receiving polio vaccine is due to global surveillance, adding that the vaccine must be taken at least four weeks before travel to the Kingdom and proof must be recorded in the International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card).

Nigeria was declared free of wild poliovirus by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on August 25, 2020, though the country continues to face risks from circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVDPC2).

The Nigerian government, through technical supports from WHO and partners, has launched rapid surveillance and assessments to enhance the capacity to detect suspected cases and guide vaccination responses through the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).

According to the circular, all countries, including Nigeria, are to ensure that their citizens performing Hajj were physically fit and free from ailments that could affect their health or that of others during the pilgrimage.

The National Hajj Commission if Nigeria (NAHCON) infirmed on Saturday that the Saudi Ministry of Health listed severe heart, lung or kidney diseases, advanced chronic illnesses and mental or psychological disorders as conditions that might prevent an individual from performing next year’s Hajj.

The circular further mandates full compliance with the Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health medical fitness requirements for attending Hajj, including a certificate from medical authorities of the pilgrims’ countries confirming that they are free of the health conditions, including major organ failure (heart, lungs, liver, or kidneys); neurological or psychiatric disorders that impair cognition or are accompanied by severe motor disabilities; senility accompanied by dementia and high-risk pregnancy at any stage.

Other conditions listed by the Saudis are cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, biological, or radiological treatment and active infectious diseases with a public health impact such as tuberculosis and hemorrhagic fever)

On vaccination, the Saudi health authorities reiterated that all intending pilgrims must present valid certificates of vaccination against COVID-19, meningitis, polio, and yellow fever before entering the Kingdom.

The authorities insist that all pilgrims and Hajj workers must show proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 with vaccines approved by Saudi Arabia with the most recent dose must have been administered between 2021 and 2025, and at least two weeks before travel.

Every pilgrim, irrespective of their countries, the Saudis added must be vaccinated against Meningococcal Meningitis (ACWY), with the vaccine not more than five years and not less than ten days before arrival in Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi health authorities added that all travellers above nine months of age must present a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon entry.

To ensure effectiveness of the guidelines, Saudi authorities stated that they would conduct health screenings at all entry points to ensure compliance with the set requirements.

Any pilgrims who fail to meet these health standards may be denied entry, isolated, or subjected to further medical evaluation.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has emphasised that, ‘No pilgrim suffering from the listed diseases will be allowed to travel and health certificates will be thoroughly verified before and upon arrival in the Kingdom.’ , the circular asserted.

The Kingdom also disclosed that additional measures might be taken if there were global disease outbreaks or international public health emergencies during or prior to the Hajj exercise, in coordination with the WHO.

Meanwhile, NAHCON has urged all Nigerian intending pilgrims to take note of the Saudi health requirements for next year’s Hajj exercise with a view to ensuring compliance.

‘Consequently, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) urges all intending pilgrims to take note of these requirements and ensure they complete the necessary vaccinations and health checks well ahead of the 2026 Hajj season.

‘Similarly, NAHCON and the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and Licensed Tour Operators will work together to enforce compliance as provided to avoid travel disruptions at the point of entry into the Kingdom for Hajj,’ stated NAHCON’s Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Fatima Sanda Usara.

Osun state governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on the steps taken so far on the recent killings in Akinlalu, advocating observance of the rule of law in the investigation process.

In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor, who assured the police of full cooperation, further urged full support for the investigation process he had earlier ordered to unravel the details behind the killings.

While again commiserating with victims, the Governor affirmed his commitment to fishing out those responsible, declaring that ‘no one or group, no matter how highly placed or connected, found to be culpable in one way or the other should be spared from facing the full brunt of the law.’

The Governor, while further stating that there are no sacred cows in the matter at hand, however, urged the police to observe the rule of law in the investigation to ensure fairness, adding that the innocents must be protected within the bounds of law.

He noted that justice must not only be done but must be brought to bear accordingly without any let or hindrance.

The Governor further said, ‘I will not condone violation of the law or any act of indiscipline and impunity. In this matter, the law must take its course.

‘Once again, I urge all stakeholders, particularly the police, the Department of State Security (DSS), the Amotekun Security Service and other security agencies to ensure absolute peace and orderliness while the investigation lasts.’

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that some angry, powerful Nigerians are planning to remove him unconstitutionally.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele warned the NSA, DSS, and Chief of Army Staff to be careful about it while giving a timeline from November to January.

‘There will be an attempt to unseat Tinubu unconstitutionally; the NSA, DSS, and Chief of Army Staff must be careful about this. There are some gangs planning between November to January to unseat him.’

The prophet stated that some officials of the Navy, Air Force, and Army will be part of it, while warning the president to fortify himself and strengthen his security strategy.

‘ Even the Navy, Air Force will be part of it, including the Nigerian Army. President Tinubu must be ready for anything and fortify himself. He needs to change his security strategy because these personalities will be unbelievable names.’

Furthermore, Primate Ayodele stated that Nigeria has a good DSS DG and the Chief of Army Staff, who are capable of stopping the process. He urged the president to listen to their directives and ensure that they are treated well.

‘We have a good DSS DG, Combatant COAS, who will make efforts to apprehend them. The president must ensure that they are treated well and also listen attentively to them.’

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that some angry, powerful Nigerians are planning to remove him unconstitutionally.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele warned the NSA, DSS, and Chief of Army staff to be careful about it while giving a timeline from November to January.

‘There will be an attempt to unseat Tinubu unconstitutionally; the NSA, DSS, and Chief of Army Staff must be careful about this. There are some gangs planning between November to January to unseat him.’

The prophet stated that some officials of the Navy, Air Force, and Army will be part of it, while warning the president to fortify himself and strengthen his security strategy.

‘ Even the Navy, Air Force will be part of it, including the Nigerian Army. President Tinubu must be ready for anything and fortify himself. He needs to change his security strategy because these personalities will be unbelievable names.’

Furthermore, Primate Ayodele stated that Nigeria has a good DSS DG and the Chief of Army Staff who are capable of stopping the process. He urged the president to listen to their directives and ensure that they are treated well.

‘We have a good DSS DG, Combatant COAS, who will make efforts to apprehend them. The president must ensure that they are treated well and also listen attentively to them.’

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, on Saturday emphasised that the support of Nigerian governors is crucial to the success of the ongoing constitution review process.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State on the sidelines of the Retreat of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, Kalu, who chairs the committee, expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) for its support and engagement in the exercise so far.

He also acknowledged the contributions and interest of the Conference of Speakers, urging them to help fast-track the process once the reviewed document reaches their respective states.

Hon. Kalu noted that the committee had almost concluded preparations for the parliament to vote on the alteration bills.

He said, ‘We are making an appeal to you because we need you. Please, help us thank your brother governors for supporting the initiative of the Constitution review. The Governors’ Forum has in one way or the other shown us support.

‘From the chairman to any other person in the Forum, please, express our gratitude when you meet with them. One or two more engagements, we will be done with this. Please, appreciate them.

‘Also, please, let them know that without them we cannot make this Constitution. It is not possible because of the Houses of Assembly that will need to go through this document. We will not coerce the Houses of Assembly.

‘But we know you can liaise with them to help get this document back to us as quickly as possible. If the governors are not in support, we will be running in circles. But with progressively minded governors like you, I am sure you will speak to your colleagues to keep backing us up for them to know that we need them and for them to partner with us.

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‘The Conference of Speakers has shown interest and the chairman participated in one way or the other. He has been giving us support but we should not end our relationship only in engaging with them. We need you, who are the major stakeholders, to help us push this through.’

Highlighting the critical issues in the constitution amendment process, Kalu, who led members of the committee on the visit, explained that Nigerians desired a more functional constitution that would empower local governments to deliver services, streamline electoral justice, strengthen fiscal federalism, guarantee women’s full participation in governance, and enhance accountability at all levels.

In his remarks, Governor Peter Mbah commended the Deputy Speaker for simplifying the process and making it participatory through the zonal public hearings.

‘Let me once again welcome you to this historic city. Thank you so much for honouring us with your presence. Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, once again, for choosing Enugu as a venue for this retreat.

‘I want to commend your leadership and diligence over the period of the public hearing. You have come out to demonstrate such commitment in this process and I think for the first time, we are now taking it even to the granular level, getting to the details, looking at the clauses, line by line. This is what this retreat is all about. So, I want to thank you and commend you. Welcome to Enugu State,’ he said.

Filmmaker and president of TAMPAN UK Chapter, Doyin Amodu opens up about her latest project, ‘Ojo Ale’ (Twilight), a heartfelt film that honors the legacy of veteran actors in the Yoruba film industry. In this interview by ADERONKE ADESANYA, Amodu speaks on her aims to bridge the gap between generations and shed light on the challenges faced by these actors in their golden years.

What inspired you to create Ojo Ale (Twilight), and how does the story reflect the lives of veteran actors in the Yoruba film industry?

First and foremost, I want to express my deep appreciation for the veteran actors who laid the foundation of the Yoruba film industry. They built this industry with passion and creativity at a time when recognition and rewards were scarce. Their commitment, despite the odds, paved the way for the thriving industry we have today.

The inspiration behind Ojo Ale came from a desire to honor these veterans and showcase their enduring talent. The film was crafted with the wisdom of their experiences, blending timeless storytelling with contemporary themes. By featuring them prominently alongside a few younger actors, we highlight their continued relevance in today’s cinema.

Sadly, many of these veterans are often overlooked by younger producers who assume they are no longer active or capable. Ojo Ale is a statement that they are still very much alive and vibrant. They bring authenticity, emotion, and depth to roles, especially those requiring maturity and lived experience. This project gives them the platform they deserve and reminds audiences of their invaluable contributions to our industry.

As the President of TAMPAN UK Chapter, what does it mean to you personally to host this premiere in London?

It feels like a dream come true. My deepest aspiration has always been to bring joy to these veteran actors in their twilight years, to see their smiles as they travel abroad and experience opportunities they once only imagined. This premiere is not just about the film; it’s about giving these incredible individuals the recognition they truly deserve.

For many people, it will also be a moment to reconnect with the heroes and heroines they grew up watching on television in the 70s and 80s. The nostalgia and excitement that will fill the atmosphere as those memories come alive will be something truly special. Personally, and for many others traveling from across Europe, this will be an unforgettable occasion, and I feel deeply honored to be part of it.

You’ve been supporting these veterans with your own resources. Can you share some of the challenges and rewards that came with this?

It’s truly a passion and a calling for me. My support has always been driven by compassion and a sense of duty, never for reward. Sometimes, the financial strain can be overwhelming, but I believe God has been guiding us at Maam’s Production.

With the little I have, I try to provide medical support, shelter, and food for those in need. My goal is to ensure our veterans don’t fall into destitution or become burdens to society. It hasn’t been easy, but the greatest reward is seeing their dignity preserved and knowing that I am contributing, in whatever way possible, to their well-being.

Why was it important to involve these old Nollywood veterans in the film and take them abroad for the premiere?

For me, it’s not about me, it’s about them. Many of these veterans once dreamed of producing films that would be screened internationally. Unfortunately, those dreams remained unfulfilled during their most active years. This realization inspired me to create Ojo Ale (Twilight) as a means of helping them achieve that lifelong aspiration.

By featuring them prominently and ensuring they attend the London premiere, we’re fulfilling a dream they’ve held for decades. It’s my way of giving back, ensuring they are celebrated, recognized, and appreciated, even in their twilight years.

How was the experience of producing Ojo Ale in Lagos, and what unique challenges did you face during filming?

Lagos, being the hub of Nigerian filmmaking, provided the perfect setting for this project. The city’s waterways and urban scenes matched our script perfectly. However, our biggest challenge was logistics, many of the veteran actors live in different parts of Nigeria. Coordinating their schedules and bringing everyone together for filming was a massive undertaking. But through determination and teamwork, we made it happen, and the result was everything we envisioned.

How do you plan to use the London premiere to create awareness or support for the welfare of these industry legends?

We are publicizing the premiere globally across all social media platforms to raise awareness and attract support. Proceeds from ticket sales will go directly into initiatives that support the welfare of these industry veterans. Beyond entertainment, we want this event to spotlight their contributions and encourage people to join us in ensuring they receive the care and recognition they deserve.

Have you received any external sponsorship, or are you still solely funding this project? How can people or organizations support your mission?ý

At the moment, I am primarily funding the project myself, with the help of a few family members and friends who share the same vision. However, we are open to sponsorships, collaborations, and partnerships from individuals and organizations that believe in our mission. Support can come in different forms, including, financial contributions, logistics, or simply helping us spread the word. Every bit of support goes a long way in sustaining this cause and ensuring our legends live with dignity.

What message are you hoping to send to the younger generation of filmmakers and the general public through this project?

The film carries a strong message alongside its entertainment value, using various comedic styles like satire, slapstick, and spoof. To young filmmakers, my message is simple: you too will grow old one day. Appreciate and honor those who came before you, involve them in your productions and learn from their depth of experience.

To the general public, I want to remind everyone that the stars of the past are still here, alive, active, and deserving of our love. We must celebrate them now, not when they are gone. This project is a call to value our legends and ensure they are supported and respected.

What’s next after the London premiere? Are there plans for further screenings or expansion of your NGO’s work?

After the London premiere, we plan to hold private screenings for select audiences and industry stakeholders. Our goal is to secure wide distribution for Ojo Ale, ensuring the investment continues to yield returns that can sustain our work. Beyond that, we will keep expanding our NGO’s reach, creating more projects that support and uplift veterans in the film industry. Ultimately, our mission is to preserve their legacy and ensure that future generations continue to celebrate them.

Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has revealed that the weapons used by armed robbers who murdered Ms. Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, a journalist with ARISE News, and Mr Barnabas Danlami, a security guard, were smuggled into Nigeria from the Niger Republic.

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this while parading twelve suspects linked to the crime at the FCT Police Command Headquarters, Garki, Abuja, on Saturday.

It will be recalled that the assailants attacked Unique Apartments, located in Katampe Extension, Mabushi, Abuja, on September 29, 2025, during which the two victims were killed.

Hundeyin said intelligence and investigation revealed that the suspects sourced their firearms from a yet-to-be-identified supplier in Niger Republic of Niger and had been involved in several other armed robbery operations in Katampe I, Apo, Zuba, and other parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

‘Investigations revealed that the fatal shot, which claimed the life of the security guard, Mr. Barnabas Danlami, was fired by one of the suspects, Shamsudeen Hassan, who confessed to shooting the guard when he attempted to prevent them from entering the apartment complex.

‘It was further discovered that their firearms were sourced from a yet-to-be-identified supplier in Niger Republic and that the gang had participated in multiple armed robbery operations within the FCT,’ Hundeyin stated.

The police spokesperson explained that following the incident, operatives of the FCT Command launched a coordinated, intelligence-driven investigation, leading to the arrest of the suspects through digital intelligence and surveillance operations.

The arrested suspects are: Shamsudeen Hassan, Hassan Isah (22), Abubakar Alkamu a.k.a. Abba (27), Sani Sirajo a.k.a. Dan Borume (20), Mashkur Jamilu a.k.a. Abba (28), Suleiman Badamasi a.k.a. Dan-Sule (21), Abdulsalam Saleh a.k.a. Na-Durudu, Zaharadeen Muhammad a.k.a. Gwaska (23), Musa Adamu a.k.a. Musa Hassan (30), Sumayya Mohammed a.k.a. Baby (27), Isah Abdulrahman a.k.a. Abbati (25), and Musa Umar a.k.a. Small (31).

Recovered exhibits include: One locally fabricated AK-47 rifle, One locally made pistol, One pump-action gun, Thirty-six live rounds of 9mm ammunition, Two live cartridges, Four mobile phones, Two sharp knives, One cutlass, and Two flashlights.

Hundeyin extended the condolences of the Nigeria Police Force to the families, friends, and colleagues of the slain journalist and security guard, assuring that justice would be served.

‘The Force remains resolute in ensuring that all individuals connected to this grievous crime are prosecuted in accordance with the law. We commend the exceptional professionalism and dedication of the operatives of the FCT Police Command whose painstaking efforts led to these arrests and recoveries,’ he said.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to aid in crime prevention and detection.

‘Investigations remain ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more facts are uncovered,’ Hundeyin added.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday swore in 10 newly appointed permanent secretaries, describing their appointments as well deserved which also come with a greater responsibility and ‘a reminder that in Lagos, true leadership is about purpose, not privilege.’

Governor Sanwo-Olu gave this charge, while speaking at the event which took place at the Banquet Hall, Governor’s Office State, Alausa, Ikeja, witnessing the new batch that made the total number he had appointed to 121, since he came into office.

He said that as permanent secretaries, they occupied positions that were vital to the government’s effectiveness, describing them as the bridge between vision and action, connecting political direction with administrative execution.

The governor, while congratulating the newly swore in perm secs, said their performance would play a crucial role in determining how far the state government could go in adapting to new realities globally.

Sanwo-Olu noted that Lagos was not just expanding in size, but becoming more complex, amid people’s expectations of ‘a public service that is responsive, transparent, and driven by technology.’

‘We cannot keep doing things the old way and hope for different outcomes. ‘That is why my administration is committed to strengthening institutional reforms from digital transformation to performance management, and from re-engineering processes to developing our workforce.

‘As permanent secretaries, you are expected to lead these reforms in your ministries, departments, and agencies,’ the governor stated.

‘Let me be clear: this role calls for courage, creativity, and a strong sense of ethics. It requires the ability to challenge inefficiency and inspire productivity.

‘It requires you to think strategically, manage resources wisely, and uphold the values that have long been the backbone of the Lagos State Public Service.

‘Our THEMES+ Agenda lays out the framework. However, it is your everyday choices the systems you create, the culture you embody, and the people you uplift that will truly bring that agenda to life,’ he added.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, however, noted that the task remained a collective journey for the Cabinet members, the Head of Service, and all senior public service officers, saying that all concerned needed to foster a work culture that prioritizes merit, accountability, and teamwork at every level.

This was just as he commended and congratulated the families and mentors who have stood by the new appointees, saying that their ‘support has been vital in shaping the kind of leaders our public service requires.’

‘As you take your oath of office today, keep in mind that you are making a commitment not just to the government, but to every Lagosian who relies on us for opportunities, justice, and hope. Serve with a clear sense of purpose. Lead with empathy. And always remember the trust that comes with this role.

‘This administration will keep providing the right tools and supportive environment to help you thrive. But ultimately, the strength of our public service rests on the integrity and excellence of its leaders.

‘I want this new chapter to signify a renewed spirit of collaboration between our permanent secretaries and their political counterparts. The power of government lies in the synergy between policy and administration between vision and execution.

‘When respect, open communication, and a shared mission guide your efforts, success is bound to follow,’ Governor Sanwo-Olu said.

The HOS, Mr. Bode Agoro, in his remark, also congratulated the newly swore in permanent secretaries, describing their appointments as well-deserved, but quickly noted that ‘to whom much is given, much is expected.’

Agoro stated that their selection for the new office was necessitated by the vacancies in the leadership of some Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), following the statuory retirement of the permanent secretaries of those MDAs.

Agoro, who tagged the new appointees as G10, said they were carefully selected from the list of successful candidates who had been interviewed by Mr. Governor in Year 2022 and Year 2024, having crossed the hurdles of the Computer Based Test, Executive Training Development Programme and the Walk for Fitness, adding that the step was taken in a bid to sustain the tradition of equity and transparency.

The HOS, therefore, charged them to make positive impact, regardless of the ministries of their deployment, saying that such became imperative ‘as you are expected to continue your meaningful contributions to the plans and programmes of this administration.’

‘Mr. Governor sir, let me assure you that this G10 Permanent Secretaries are fantastic set of leaders desirous to hit the ground running at any MDA of deployment.

‘I have had cause to interact with them on numerous occasions since their appointment, and I have noticed that they are full of zeal and enthusiasm to make their contributions towards the development of our public service and the state as a whole.

‘I am very sure they will work harmoniously with their Honourable Commissioners/Special Advisers in order to facilitate acceleration of the achievement of their MDAs’ mandate,’ Agoro said.

‘While I congratulate the families of our appointees, I like to admonish you to give them necessary support to excel in their new roles and show understanding more than ever before,’ he added.

The newly swore in newly permanent secretaries are: Omololu, Olufemi Motunolani; Sanni, Omotayo Layemo; Alaka, Monsurat Titilope; Onigbanjo Muhammed Thanni Babatunde; Oyenuga, Olutokunbo Olayode; Ojikutu, Rafiu Olawale; Paseda, Olufemi Bamidele; Garbadeen-Adedeji, Oluwakemi Amudat; Ogunlana, Toyin Rahmat and Pitan, Adesola Ayodele.