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Establishment of a regional legislation for regulation of religion, including harmful religious practice that can compromise peace, security, and stability of West Africa and the Sahel, is expected to be one of the outcomes of the forthcoming West Africa Islamic Conference on Security and Governance.

The conference, scheduled for November 4 at the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja, is a collaborative effort between the ECOWAS Commission and an Islamic organization in Nigeria, Jam’iyyatu Ansarideen.

It is expected to draw religious leaders, scholars, community leaders, academics, policymakers, and other stakeholders from 20 West African and Sahelian countries.

The National Secretary of Jam’iyyatu Ansarideen and Chairman of the Conference Organizing Committee, Dr. Muhammad AlQasim Yahaya, said at a press conference yesterday that the forum would bring together Islamic teachers and scholars, academia, policymakers, and security agency leaders from 20 countries in West Africa and the Sahel region to brainstorm and discuss workable solutions to terrorism and violent extremism in the region.

He said other outcomes that are expected from the forum include: comprehensive strategies and actionable recommendations to address insecurity, educational challenges, and social vices in West Africa and the Sahel; and enhanced deradicalization efforts, interfaith dialogue, and peaceful coexistence within the region.

Yahaya said that former President Goodluck Jonathan and the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, are expected to lead key discussions at the forthcoming West Africa Islamic Conference on Security and Governance.

According to him, terrorism and violent extremism have had devastating effects on countries in West Africa and the Sahel region.

Available statistics have shown that the Sahel region accounts for 51 percent of global terrorism-related deaths, with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger being among the most affected.

In March 2025 West Africa recorded 899 security incidents, a 6.4 percent increase from February, resulting in a surge in fatalities. May 2025 saw 2,409 conflict-related fatalities across 985 incidents, with Nigeria and Burkina Faso accounting for over 75 percent of the deaths.

Over five million people have been forcibly displaced, and another 33 million need humanitarian support; while there are approximately 12 illegal weapons in circulation in West Africa, fueling violence and instability.

Yahaya emphasized that while governments are striving to find lasting solutions to end the menace, concerted efforts by individuals and religious organizations could complement government efforts to achieve desirable solutions and ultimately help eradicate the menace.

While highlighting key factors contributing to insecurity in the region, including poverty, weak institutions, economic marginalization, lack of opportunities, and porous borders, he noted that the conference aimed to find homegrown solutions to the problem, informed by the views of religious leaders.

He said, ‘Every religion is anti- terrorism and anti-violence. Religion has no connection with terrorism, genocide, killings, in any way. Religion is about preserving humanity.And that is how we have been living before in Nigeria. And that is what we want to advocate.’

‘So this is not like normal conferences where, like people normally do, we bring some experts from far – a professor from the United Kingdom or China, who may not even know the happenings in our countries, to talk about it.

‘This conference is coming together of people – experts, religious leaders and community leaders within West Africa and the Sahel region to find solutions to our common problems.

‘Today, the African Union is promoting ‘silencing guns’. Some people may think that looking at the attacks, it may not really bring peace, sometimes negotiations will be better. Others may think otherwise. But that is why we are coming together from our heart to discuss what is happening. We are not deciding for the military. We are not deciding for the security forces. But we are coming to look at the issues as they are.’

Yahaya also emphasized the significance of revamping the Almajiri system to provide quality education for school children, noting that by providing the Almajiri child with quality education, like their peers, the government would not only be fulfilling their fundamental human rights but also solving many other challenges the child and society may face.

Baptist Academy Lagos, a Baptist Secondary school located in Obanikoro, marks its 170th anniversary of establishment in October 2025. Established in 1855 by American Baptist missionaries, Baptist Academy is among Nigeria’s oldest educational institutions and has provided education since its inception. The school acknowledges its history and recognizes individuals who have contributed to its development.

Since its founding, Baptist Academy has evolved into a well-established institution. The original founders set the foundation for academic and personal growth for many students, shaping the school’s trajectory.

Teachers at the Academy are responsible for delivering both academic instruction and teaching values such as integrity, discipline, and service. Alumni have pursued careers in various sectors, utilizing skills and principles acquired at the Academy.

Graduates contribute to fields including the sciences, arts, and both professional and community organizations, reflecting the Academy’s approach to comprehensive education. As the institution reviews its history, it continues to adhere to the standards and values put in place by its founders and aims to support future generations in their educational pursuits.

The 170th Founders Day celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on the institution’s impact and consider how to further its development for current and future students.

To mark the anniversary in addition to other ongoing activities and events to commemorate the anniversary, images recognising key historical figures/pioneers, will be displayed on campus and online. These artworks, created by artist and alumnus Tayo Fatunla, depict missionaries, visionaries, and educators connected with the school with names like African America, Reverend Joseph Harden, Reverend Moses Ladejo Stone and Reverend Willam David to name a few illustrated and spotlighted. Many were associated with the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) in the United States.

Anniversary activities have been coordinated under Dr Yemi Onifade, alumnus and Chair of the 170th Founders Day Anniversary Planning Committee. The current President of the Baptist Academy Old Students Association (BAOSA), Olumide Ajomale, emphasized the ongoing focus on value-based education at Baptist Academy as it reaches 170 years.

As part of the anniversary, BAOSA will recognize one hundred and seventy (170) alumni in the BAOSA Order of Excellence, celebrating former students for achievements in academics, professional contributions, national or global prominence, charitable work, and service to BAOSA at the Awards evening to hold on Sunday, 26th October 2025.

Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have apprehended the driver of a Mercedes Benz truck after a fatal accident killed a pedestrian along Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The incident occurred along Simpson Street, inward Ikoyi, near the Osborne Expressway Traffic Light Junction, when the truck, with registration number KRD 466 XJ, reportedly suffered a mechanical brake failure while moving at high speed.

Eyewitnesses said the driver, in a desperate bid to avoid crashing into vehicles ahead, lost control and veered off the road, hitting a pedestrian who was walking by the roadside. The victim died instantly.

LASTMA officials on duty at the scene were said to have moved swiftly to cordon off the area, preventing further accidents and ensuring free vehicular movement around the busy corridor.

The truck driver was immediately apprehended by LASTMA personnel and handed over to security operatives from the Dolphin Estate and Ikoyi Police Divisions for further interrogation and legal action.

Police officers later evacuated the remains of the deceased to a mortuary in Ebute Metta, pending formal identification by the family.

Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the occurrence as ‘tragic and preventable,’ while extending condolences to the family of the deceased.

He said the accident was another reminder of the need for proper vehicle inspection and maintenance, especially among operators of heavy-duty and articulated vehicles.

Bakare-Oki urged all motorists, particularly truck drivers and fleet operators, to carry out thorough mechanical checks before setting out, with special attention to the braking system.

‘Mechanical negligence and poor maintenance culture remain among the leading causes of avoidable fatalities on our roads,’ he said.

He commended the prompt and coordinated intervention of LASTMA operatives and the police, assuring that the agency will continue to uphold safety and discipline on Lagos roads.

Bakare-Oki also reiterated that LASTMA, in collaboration with other relevant agencies, will intensify enforcement of roadworthiness standards and expand public enlightenment campaigns targeted at truck operators, commercial drivers, and transport unions.

He called on all road users to embrace caution and discipline, noting that road safety is a collective responsibility.

‘The surest way to prevent needless loss of lives and property is through strict compliance with traffic regulations,’ he said.

When he concluded plaintively on October 11 that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was powerless to arrest the defections of leading members of his party, it was obvious that Bauchi State governor and PDP Governors’ Forum chairman, Bala Mohammed, was despondent. ‘I cannot say that my colleagues are wrong,’ he began with a hint of sarcasm, sounding almost like he was dreaming. ‘They are free to do whatever they choose. But I have been advising them that even those who left are not finding it easier because most of the people at the grassroots level are PDP and are not happy with the defections. Sometimes, it is done because of permutations and calculations. I will not denigrate or speak negatively about my colleagues, I assure you.’ His lament came shortly after the cat was let out of the bag about Enugu State governor Peter Mbah’s impending defection. Three days later, Mr Mbah left the PDP and berthed at the All Progressives Congress (APC), giving convincing reasons and ignoring Mr Mohammed’s remonstrations.

Before the week ran out, another governor, Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, one of the least expected to defect, though it had been widely rumoured, had left the PDP sheepfold. He too gave eloquent reasons for his exit. More defections could still follow, for the leading opposition party has proved incompetent to arrest the exodus. But those who prematurely sing a funeral dirge for the PDP suggest that the ruling APC seems bent on fostering a dictatorship over Nigeria, a one-party state that would dim the light of democracy. They exaggerate. The defection problem is less what the APC plans to do as what the PDP omits to do. Yes, the opposition party faces grave existential challenge, but it still possesses the seed to counter the ruling party and give hope for the future. The party is now down to eight states, from a decent 13 in 2023. It lost one through off-cycle election, and four by defections: Bayelsa, Enugu, Delta and Akwa Ibom. But it prefers to moralise the problem rather than strategise to arrest it. It prefers to preach rather than act timely and sensibly.

Two things ail the PDP: a lack of visionary and assertive leadership, and a lack of strategy. Since it lost the epoch-defining and mind-shaping presidential election of 2015, the party was never the same. Ex-president Goodluck Jonathan who cost them the election refused to fall on his sword in penance for leading the troops to disaster; instead, he did much worse. Alleging betrayal against his party members and leaders, and displaying a sense of entitlement at a time when his leadership was sorely needed and even demanded, he sulked back to his native state. And when he caught his breath a little, he returned to Abuja and promptly adopted the post of ambassador plenipotentiary, stomping through African states and cities for election monitoring and other peacemaking duties, supposedly mocking Nigerians about the gem they foolishly scorned. But Nigeria has since moved on to other seductions. PDP leaders’ judgement was of course often infantile, but they were determined not to have anything to do with Dr Jonathan whom they controversially blamed for all their miseries and shortcomings. The party panted for great and transformative leaders who could stanch the flow of electoral blood depleting them, but no leader came forward. Their 2015 loss had so bewildered them that they lost the will to live or even play politics intelligently.

Former Rivers governor Nyesom Wike saw the vacuum after 2015 and immediately filled it. He imbued the party with a new sense of direction, energised them with funds, imposed his will on party chieftains, and brought the party out of the doldrums. Even when some dissatisfied party chiefs lured the nomadic former vice president Atiku Abubakar into using the party’s platform to contest the presidency, Mr Wike still held the reins, refusing to feel scorned by ungrateful party members. The return of Alhaji Abubakar unfortunately produced two counterproductive elements. Firstly, it opened the party to his unhealthy and entitled influence; and secondly, it robbed the party of the commitment and resourcefulness of Mr Wike. With dissension now freely coursing through the party and polluting its soul, it was just a few steps away from disaster. That disaster exploded in their faces in 2023, and shortly after the polls, Alhaji Atiku, the great nomad, once again departed for greener pastures, thrusting the knife deeper into the party’s back. This time, sadly, there was no one left in the party to help pick up the pieces. All its leaders are now gone, and third-rate leaders with no sense of direction, urgency or the funds to back up their talk are inexpertly attempting to chart a new path.

The second failing is even much worse than the first. Yes, the PDP lacks vibrant and imaginative leaders; but by lacking a strategy to reclaim and rediscover itself, the party has become rudderless. After losing the 2015 elections, it was apoplectic and began adopting desperate and impractical measures. But after losing the 2023 presidential election, party leaders seemed to have virtually lost all hope thereby endangering the party’s survival. After the 2025 electoral disaster, party leaders should have constituted a high-powered panel to rejig the party and recreate its purpose by refining and honing its founding ideals. Instead, they were obsessed with the next presidential election in 2019, sought for a draftee to be their champion, and found the mercurial and jinxed Alhaji Atiku. The founding ideals of the party should have been repurposed, and party organs and structures should have been reworked in a way that finds and elevates new or younger and more driven leaders. As a matter of fact, they should have glossed over the 2019 election and set a new timetable for themselves, either 2023 or 2027. Unfortunately, they spurned the idea of the long haul, ignored the crying need for restructuring, and rushed with fatal consequences into the next electoral war they were both unsuited and unprepared for.

It is, however, not too late to make amends once they are persuaded that they need to do substantial refitting of their party. They must start by acknowledging that they are too hobbled by internal dissension to win the 2027 presidential poll. Next, they must find brilliant and animated politicians with the resources and rhetorical flourish who can both approximate and aggregate their future and speak persuasively and fluently to it. They must centre their renewal on those who remain behind, the real altruists who are willing to work and put their shoulders to the wheel, men and women who see the PDP as a project worth dying for. Twelve years of losing presidential elections may have deprived them of the capacity to mentor the party’s future leaders; it is now time to find and mentor the hopes of that future. The APC will not always be strong, and may even sometimes drop the ball; the PDP must, therefore, find ways to take advantage of those overconfident and careless moments.

Some analysts have predicted the demise of the opposition party; but such predictions are probably exaggerated. Party leaders must not allow those predictions to become self-fulfilling. Pride may not allow them to abandon the 2027 race, which may explain why they have been hunting for jaded politicians like Dr Jonathan to come and help them fight the Goliath confronting them. Let them instead register only a token presence in the race; and let them strategise for the future, a strategy that begins with repurposing and refitting their once powerful party. Indeed, their main challenge is finding a few brilliant and altruistic leaders to lead the charge, men who understand strategy and deplore political self-aggrandisement.

As Nigeria marked her Sapphire Jubilee Year recently, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the Philippines joined other well-wishers to commemorate the event at the prestigious Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati, Metro Manila.

The event brought together a diverse mix of diplomats, host government officials, business leaders and Captains of industries, and members of the Nigerian community in a colorful celebration that reflected Nigeria’s pride, unity, and global presence.

The event was graced by Resident Ambassadors in the Philippines, Chargé d’Affaires from various Missions, members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Representatives of International Organizations, Philippine government officials, private sector executives, captains of industries, and members of the Nigerian community, including NIDOPHIL Executives.

The atmosphere was one of unity and pride, as attendees joined in celebrating Nigeria’s resilience and achievements over the past six and a half decades.

The celebration was hosted by Mr. Adeshina Edward Oloje, the Acting Head of Mission and Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, alongside the dedicated officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Manila. In his opening remarks, Mr. Oloje warmly welcomed guests and highlighted the enduring friendship between Nigeria and the Philippines. He emphasized the Embassy’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, fostering economic collaboration, and deepening cultural understanding between both nations.

The evening featured moments of cultural exchange, inspiring speeches, and expressions of goodwill from friends and partners of Nigeria. It served as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy, collaboration, and people-to-people connections in advancing shared prosperity.

The event also showcased the vibrant Nigerian spirit that continues to inspire hope across the diaspora community in the Philippines.

In a gesture of gratitude, the Embassy extended special appreciation to its partners and sponsors who played vital roles in making the event a resounding success. Among them were:

International Container Terminal Services, Inc., DAEWOO E and C, MPL International Corporation, Ethiopian Airlines. FIR International Service Corp., Wipro Splash. Century Pacific Food, Inc., Wesley and Blessing Consultancy Inc., Highlander Overseas Manpower Employment. NIDOPhil Executives, Mindset, Management and Consultancy Services Inc.. TEAM Ministries International, Josmef Medical Corporation. Their generous support and partnership underscored the collaborative bond between Nigerian and Filipino institutions and individuals working together toward shared goals.

Highlights of the event was the singing of national anthems of Nigeria and the Philippines, welcome remarks by the Acting Head of Mission, Mr. Adeshina Edward Oloje, congratulatory remarks by the host government representative from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Assistant Secretary, Madam Germinia V. Aguilar – Usudan, video display of independence day salutation from Nigerian medical students in Gullas College of Medicine, Cebu City, official toast by Bishop Anthony Marioghae and President of NIDOPHIL, cutting of the anniversary cake and several photo sessions.

The Embassy used the event to showcase various videos of investment and tourism opportunities that abound in Nigeria to the invited guests at the ceremony. As the evening came to a close, guests were thrilled to a display of rich cultural dance performed by Nigerian students from St. Dominic Savio University in Caloocan, Philippine; taste of deep flavored Nigerian cuisines and musical display by known Nigerian Social Media Celebrities Ishaku Ishaya Isaac Monday (Sabaw) and Daniel Oluwadamilola Oke (Tugue Zombie). The event was not just a commemoration, it was a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s strength, diversity, and global relevance.

Naija Diaspora Magazine congratulates the Embassy of Nigeria in the Philippines and the entire Nigerian community for organizing such a successful and memorable celebration. May the friendship between Nigeria and the Philippines continue to flourish in peace, unity, and mutual respect.

Credit rating has the potential to drive socioeconomic growth and development if well-harnessed.

The foregoing was the summary of the submissions made by a cross-section of participants who spoke at the 4th edition of the Annual International Credit Rating Webinar in Lagos, recently.

The high-profile event, the brainchild of DataPro, unarguably one of Nigeria’s leading credit rating agencies coincided with the firm’s 30th anniversary.

Setting the tone for the interface and discussion sessions, the Founder/Chief Executive at DataPro, Mr Abimbola Adeseyoju, recalled that in the past three decades has been rather eventful for the organisation.

The company in the last 30 years had contributed significantly to the growth and development of compliance, credit Rating, data protection and business information advisory, not only in Nigeria but all over the African continent, he stressed.

‘We will continue to evolve both in innovative services and technological delivery in the coming space,’ said Adeseyoju.

In his goodwill message Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), while espousing the role of credit rating agencies in the economy, commended DataPro and its partners for their foresight and dedication in convening this important platform that brings together regulators, financial institutions, credit rating experts, investors, and development partners to examine the evolving role of credit rating agencies in today’s dynamic global economy.

According to him, this year’s theme, ‘The Role of Credit Rating Agency in a Dynamic Global Economy,’ is relevant and profoundly reflective of our times. It underscores the need for trust, transparency, and sound governance as the bedrock of resilient financial systems.

As economies across the world contend with shifting global trends, geopolitical tensions, and technological transformation, the need for credible mechanisms that assess and manage risk has never been more pressing.

‘Credit rating agencies, as you well know, play a critical role in filling this gap by providing investors and institutions with objective, data-driven insights that inform sound financial decisions. Credit ratings remain a cornerstone of the modern financial system. They serve as a compass for both investors and issuers, guiding investment flows, the pricing of financial instruments, and access to funding.

‘In emerging markets such as Nigeria, credible and independent credit ratings are vital. They bridge information gaps, boost investor confidence, and guide capital toward productive sectors, thereby supporting national development and strengthening market participation. At the Securities and Exchange Commission, we recognise that well-functioning credit rating agencies are essential to the integrity of the capital market.’

The Commission, he assured, ‘remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining a transparent and effective regulatory framework that promotes accountability, professionalism, and investor protection within the credit rating industry. Furthermore, we will continue to strengthen our oversight of credit rating agencies, encourage the adoption of international best practices, and support innovation that enhances the credibility of ratings, especially in a fast-evolving financial environment.

‘Our broader vision for the Nigerian capital market is one of inclusivity, depth, and resilience, a market that mobilises long-term financing for infrastructure, enterprise, and innovation. In this vision, credit rating agencies serve as trusted partners in driving financial discipline and advancing transparency across market segments.

‘By deepening partnerships and exchanging knowledge, we can build a stronger credit rating culture that not only reflects our local realities but also aligns with international standards. This will not only position Nigeria but indeed Africa as a credible destination for sustainable investment and capital formation.’

Also speaking, Mr. Bonaventure Okhaimo, Managing Director/ CEO, National Credit Guarantee Company Limited, acknowledged that, ‘The roles of credit rating agencies in facilitating cross-border investment, resource allocations, equip investors to make informed decisions among competing opportunities, improve organisations’ governance and support financial market stability cannot be over emphasised. At National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC), your support to achieve our mandate of unlocking access to funding for MSMEs, local manufacturers, large enterprises and credit consumers through credible market data, analysis and rating reports is vital.’

In his keynote address, Prof. Mahesh K. Kotecha, President and Founder, Structured Credit International Corp, who spoke on ‘Leveraging a Credit Rating for Economic Growth in Developing Countries,’ said this comes at a critical time, when both advanced and emerging economies face profound fiscal and financial challenges.

‘The Role of Credit Ratings Credit ratings are not a mere numbers game. They are independent and credible opinions of creditworthiness. They reduce information asymmetry, provide a common language between issuers and investors, and reinforce transparency and discipline in financial management. They assess whether the investor will get repaid its investment on time as scheduled.’

According to him, ratings matter for economic growth because stronger ratings attract long-term private investment and reduce borrowing costs, thus it frees up public resources for governments to invest in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

‘In the early 2000s, very few African countries had sovereign ratings. That changed when UNDP and the U.S. State Department financed the first sovereign ratings by Standard and Poor’s and Fitch respectively for African sovereigns encouraged in part by a Roundtable on Capital Flows to Africa which I directed at the Council on Foreign Relations and which recommended African governments seek such ratings. Today over thirty African countries are rated by at least one of the Big Three rating agencies.

‘These ratings have helped catalyse the African Eurobond market, which over two decades has seen issuances exceeding $300 billion. Ratings have become not only a passport to international markets but also a benchmark for investors on governance and reforms.

Yet challenges remain. Too few African countries have investment-grade ratings, and many remain vulnerable to commodity cycles, political instability, and fiscal stress. Some methodological challenges and data limitations add to the difficulties. For example, African economies tend to be commodity dependent and have large informal sectors which do not generate much government revenue, which increases fiscal deficits, a key sovereign credit metric.’

‘Credit ratings are not perfect, but they are indispensable. They can open doors to capital, can discipline governments and companies, and can reinforce sound policy choices. If leveraged wisely, they can help transform the growth trajectories of developing countries, including Nigeria. But without governance and reform, even the mightiest sovereigns can falter. The challenge, and the opportunity, is before us. Nigeria has the chance not only to benefit from stronger ratings but also to lead in shaping Africa’s financial future. Let us ensure that ratings are not just scorecards, but bridges to resilience, transparency, and sustainable growth.’

Other speakers including Mrs Angela Jide Jones, the CEO of Sewa Capital, provided the perspective from our domestic market, just as Daouda Sembene, the CEO of AfriCatalyst from Dakar, Senegal, Idhyasagar Lingesan, the CEO of Care Credit Rating, Zwelibsnzi Maziya, the COO of Sovereign Africa Rating from South Africa, and Obed Mbuzi, Director of Premier Rating Services, shared their experiences working with one of the biggest rating agencies.

The highpoint of the occasion was the cutting of the anniversary cake and the presentation of Adeseyoju’s personal biography.

Delta Police Command has arrested a suspected notorious drug baron in Delta State, Onos Afokoghene,

has highlighted the ongoing efforts by Nigeria Police to combat drug trafficking in the State.

Operatives from the Orerokpe Division apprehended the 37-year-old following a tip-off during a patrol led by Divisional Police Officer CSP Paul Oboware, targeting a hotspot in the Jeddo Community.

According to a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, Afokoghene, known for distributing hard drugs in Warri and nearby areas, attempted to escape upon the police’s approach.

However, he said the skilled team was able to quickly close in on him, resulting in his arrest after a brief chase.

He said this incident underscored the police’s commitment to addressing drug-related crimes and enhancing community safety.

Edafe noted that ‘a thorough search of the scene led to a startling discovery of illicit substances and paraphernalia used in large-scale drug sales.

‘Exhibits recovered include the following: 3kg of Canadian Loud, 10kg of Indian Hemp, 24 litres of soaked weed suspected to be Indian Hemp in dry gin (locally known as ‘monkey tail’), several sachets of Tramadol of various milligrams, and two (2) POS machines suspected of being used for drug sales.

‘The suspect is currently in custody while investigations continue to uncover his network of distributors and buyers.’

In another show of vigilance and tactical precision, according to the statement, operatives of the ‘C’ Division Asaba, led by CSP Ogbe Emmanuel, intercepted 400 live cartridges carefully concealed within a bus that was heading to Edo State.

The statement said: ‘On 16th October 2025, at about 1200hrs, while conducting routine surveillance and stop-and-search operations at the Head Bridge, Asaba, the operatives flagged down a Toyota Hiace Hummer Bus with registration number NGK 16 XB, driven by one Ozoemenam Sylvanus.

‘The driver, appearing uneasy during questioning, drew the suspicion of the officers who proceeded to conduct a thorough search of the vehicle.

‘Their instinct paid off; four hundred (400) live cartridges were discovered carefully concealed within the bus.

‘The suspect initially lied that it was padlocks but was left speechless when the parcel was open and the true content was seen.

‘The suspect was immediately arrested, and both he and the exhibit recovered while investigation to unravel the source, and criminal network behind the illegal arms movement is ongoing.’

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in collaboration with the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board, is organising a five-day capacity building workshop on Strengthening Mathematics and Science Education for 200 newly employed Mathematics and Science Teachers across the 25 local government areas of Delta State.

The capacity building workshop according to UBEC and SUBEB, followed successful completion of Phase One, Cycle 1 to Cycle 4 In Service Education and Training (INSET), from 2012 to 2025 of the SMASE programme.

The training which is an initiative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education (FME), is residential and scheduled to hold from Monday 20th to Friday 24th October 2025 at Anglican Girls Grammar School, Ughelli, in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.

Foursquare Gospel Church has unveiled an ultramodern hospital to address critical health needs of the people.

The hospital was unveiled during the grand finale of the church’s 70th Annual Convention held at the Foursquare Camp, Ajebo, Ogun State.

Speaking at the convention, the General Overseer, Reverend Sam Aboyeji, declared that the church has entered its season of jubilee after 70 years of existence, describing the milestone as a divine turning point ordained by God.

Rev. Aboyeji drew inspiration from Jeremiah 29:10, emphasizing that God Himself had set the agenda for the next phase of the church’s journey.

He noted that ultramodern hospital will serve as succour to people living within the communities.

‘In Nigeria today, accessing healthcare without insurance is difficult. Most people in these rural areas cannot even afford basic health insurance. Our small health center attended to over 2,500 patients last year alone, so we decided to upgrade the facility. The state government approved the plan, and now we have a hospital that will serve even more people,’ he explained.

He added that the new facility would continue to provide critical medical support for thousands who rely on the church’s outreach programs.

The silver jubilee celebration of Dr. and Mrs. Clement Oluwasegun Obadimu’s marriage was nothing short of an unforgettable love story retold.

Marking 25 years of commitment, resilience, and partnership, the couple returned to where their journey began- Assemblies of God Church, Ikot Ibiok, Eket, Akwa Ibom State for a thanksgiving service that set the tone for a day of elegance and heartfelt surprises.

The service, which drew family, friends, and well-wishers, was filled with music, prayers, and unexpected gestures of love from the church units, who presented the couple with generous gifts they never anticipated.

From there, the celebration moved to Villa Marina Hotel’s U.J. Esuene Hall, Eket, where a red-carpet reception recreated the couple’s wedding-day entrance 25 years earlier.

Emotional tributes flowed freely, with their children presenting a special photo frame inscribed ‘THEN and NOW’ a touching reminder of the enduring beauty of their union.

The most memorable highlight of the day came when Dr. Obadimu surprised his wife with lovely gifts and poured heartfelt encomiums on her. His words, filled with gratitude and admiration, resonated deeply with the guests, teaching once again that celebrating one’s spouse with love and honor is the secret to a lasting marriage.

In the same vein Mrs. Obadimu pleasantly surprised her husband with a thoughtful 25-year service award gift, honoring his dedication, hard work, and commitment over the years a gesture that added warmth and meaning to the joyous occasion.

Dr. Obadimu, a respected pro bono lecturer at three Nigerian universities, life coach, and CEO of Mentor’s Tower, used the occasion not only to celebrate his family but also to inspire others, showing that marriage thrives when faith, love, and appreciation are placed at its center.

The Obadimus’ 25th wedding anniversary was indeed an event of epochal significance one that combined faith, family, and flamboyance in a style befitting life and lifestyle pages anywhere.