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Mumbai Indians part ways with Malinga

Mumbai Indians have parted ways with former Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga, their bowling coach, as part of a shake-up of their coaching staff ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Malinga, who previously played for Mumbai Indians, returned to the franchise’s coaching setup in 2024.

The franchise also released bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and fielding coach Carl Hopkinson. Confirming the departures yesterday, it thanked all three for their contributions and wished them success.

The changes follow the exit earlier this month of former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene, who stepped down as head coach after a long association with the franchise. Former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard has since been appointed head coach for IPL 2027.

The five-time IPL champions are restructuring their coaching setup after a disappointing 2026 season in which they finished ninth in the 10-team competition. Replacements for the three departing coaches have yet to be announced.

Japan grants Rs. 4.56 b to curb Kelani River flooding

Japan will provide a grant of about Rs. 4.56 billion (JPY 2.18 billion) to build a new pumping station to reduce flooding in the Kelani River basin, under agreements signed in Colombo on Wednesday.

The Finance, Planning and Economic Development Ministry said the Exchange of Notes for the Project for the Improvement of the Pump Station in Kelani River was signed by Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma for the Government of Sri Lanka and Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata for the Government of Japan.

Dr. Suriyapperuma and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Sri Lanka Office Chief Representative Shigeo Honzu then signed the Grant Agreement.

The grant is provided through JICA under Japan’s Economic and Social Development Program.

The project aims to provide a long-term solution to flooding in the Mudun Ela sub-basin, which covers Wattala and Peliyagoda. Both areas are prone to flooding during heavy rainfall and when the Kelani River rises.

A new pumping station with a discharge capacity of 15 cubic metres per second will be built. It will be equipped with a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, which allows the station to be monitored and operated remotely. The station will discharge storm water when river levels rise, improving drainage and flood management in surrounding areas.

It would also support the continued development of Peliyagoda as a major commercial, logistics and transport hub, and create a more favourable environment for investment. The project is also expected to strengthen climate resilience and improve flood management across the Colombo Metropolitan Region. The Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation (SLLDC) will implement the project under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development.

The US alert on Mexican cartels in Nigeria The US alert on Mexican cartels in Nigeria

THE warning from the United States concerning Mexican drug cartels in Nigeria should trouble every Nigerian who understands the consequences of allowing international organised crime to take root in a country already battling multiple security challenges. This is no routine diplomatic advisory to be acknowledged and forgotten. It concerns criminal organisations whose activities have devastated communities, corrupted institutions and challenged governments elsewhere. Nigeria must not wait to experience similar consequences before recognising the danger.

During his visit to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) headquarters in Abuja, the United States Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Michael Gonzales, commended the agency for dismantling four methamphetamine laboratories linked to Mexican criminal networks. He warned that increasing American pressure on cartels could encourage their expansion into Africa. Criminal organisations displaced from one region naturally seek environments where enforcement is weaker and illicit profits can flourish. We commend the NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), and his officers for their professionalism, determination and operational successes. Dismantling four clandestine laboratories demonstrates effective intelligence-led investigations and institutional leadership. General Marwa and his team deserve recognition and continued government support. However, these achievements raise a troubling question: where are the other agencies entrusted with protecting Nigeria from threats of this nature? Combating international drug cartels cannot be left to the NDLEA alone.

The National Intelligence Agency (NIA) must explain what it knows about these international criminal networks and their connections with Nigeria. Foreign intelligence should identify emerging transnational threats, monitor criminal facilitators and provide actionable assessments to relevant agencies. Its leadership must demonstrate that Nigeria is not waiting for foreign governments to discover threats developing against our country. The Department of State Services (DSS) has an equally important responsibility. Who are the Nigerian collaborators? Where are their operational facilities? Are local criminal gangs providing protection? The DSS should work closely with the NDLEA to identify and disrupt these networks before they become entrenched. The Nigeria Immigration Service must also account for its preventive responsibilities. How did the identified Mexican nationals enter Nigeria? What documents did they present, and what were their declared purposes of entry? The Comptroller-General must recognise that immigration control is an essential component of national security, not merely an administrative exercise. The Nigeria Customs Service cannot escape scrutiny. Methamphetamine production requires chemicals, equipment and logistical arrangements. Were any suspicious consignments imported through Nigerian ports or borders? Were appropriate inspections conducted? Customs must strengthen chemical import monitoring and intelligence exchange with the NDLEA. Revenue collection cannot supersede national security.

The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) must investigate the financing of these operations. Who provided the capital? Which businesses, accounts or intermediaries facilitated payments? Destroying laboratories without dismantling the financial networks sustaining them amounts to treating the symptoms while leaving the disease untouched. The Nigeria Police Force, including its INTERPOL National Central Bureau, must contribute international criminal intelligence and investigations. The Office of the National Security Adviser should coordinate these agencies. Intelligence locked within institutional compartments while criminals exploit the gaps between agencies is intelligence that has failed its purpose. Community leaders must equally accept responsibility. We challenge traditional rulers, village heads, community development associations and local vigilante organisations. How do criminal operatives establish clandestine laboratories, occupy properties and conduct suspicious activities without attracting attention? Particularly in Southern Nigeria, where communities generally have identifiable traditional authorities and landowners, there should be no room for criminal enclaves operating beyond community vigilance. Traditional authority carries responsibilities beyond settling disputes and conferring chieftaincy titles. Residents should report suspicious activities without resorting to ethnic profiling, harassment or vigilantism.

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) must also wake up to its responsibilities. Its Director-General should initiate sustained nationwide sensitisation, particularly in rural communities, educating traditional rulers, landlords, youth organisations and residents about clandestine drug laboratories, suspicious chemical activities and the consequences of harbouring criminal networks. Such campaigns should use indigenous languages, community radio, schools, religious institutions and grassroots meetings. Citizens must understand how to recognise warning signs and report concerns safely. A community that knowingly shelters drug cartels may eventually discover that the criminal enterprise it tolerated has destroyed its own children. Public enlightenment is therefore a national security necessity, not an occasional publicity exercise.

The consequences of indifference could be catastrophic. Nigeria already confronts terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and arms proliferation. It cannot afford sophisticated criminal networks capable of financing existing violence. Possible links between narcotics proceeds and armed groups require urgent investigation, although such connections must not be presumed without evidence. Our greatest concern, however, must be our children and generations yet unborn. Synthetic drugs can destroy health, education, productivity and family stability. Imagine parents watching their children surrender promising futures to addiction, or communities where criminal wealth becomes more attractive than honest employment. Environmental contamination from illicit laboratories compounds these dangers. The price of today’s negligence may be paid by generations who never knew the officials whose failures endangered their future.

The president should direct the National Security Adviser to undertake an urgent inter-agency assessment, establish accountability, investigate possible institutional compromise and produce a coordinated prevention strategy. Intelligence sharing, financial investigations, border surveillance and community sensitisation must become measurable national priorities. We therefore challenge the heads of the NIA, DSS, Immigration, Customs, NFIU, EFCC, Police and NOA: show Nigerians what your institutions have done to prevent these criminal networks from becoming established. National security leadership is measured not by official convoys or prestigious appointments, but by threats prevented and lives protected. General Marwa and the NDLEA have demonstrated that determined leadership produces results. Other institutions must not remain spectators.

The ultimate test of Nigeria’s security agencies is not whether they can explain a danger after it arrives, but whether they possess the intelligence, integrity and courage to prevent it from taking root. Nigeria must not become a sanctuary for international criminals at the expense of its children and generations yet unborn.

2027: Atiku’s son unveils campaign plan for Tinubu’s re-election

Alhaji Abba Abubakar, son of former Vice-President Atiku on Friday unveiled his 2027 mobilisation plan in the six geo-political zones for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.

The former vice-president’s son who is the founder and chairman of Haske Bola Tinubu Organisation (HBTO) a political mobilisation and support platform in Abuja at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Secretariat had earlier defected to the party.

‘Looking ahead, HBTO is preparing for an ambitious nationwide political mobilisation programme.

‘As part of this strategy, we intend to commence a two-million-man mobilisation march across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, beginning from Abuja.

‘Our immediate mobilisation efforts will focus on supporting the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, whom we recognise as a key political leader in our mobilisation structure in the collective effort to secure Tinubu’s victory in the FCT in 2027.

‘We are also working in alignment with the FCT minister’s political objective of delivering both the FCT and Rivers for President Tinubu in the forthcoming election,’ Abubakar said.

The former vice-president’s son added that his organisation was preparing for a major political mobilisation in Rivers in the first week of November.

He added that as part of its commitment to complement the Tinubu reform agenda with practical interventions, his organisation was introducing a transportation support initiative through the initial provision of ten luxury buses.

He said the initiative was designed to ease transportation challenges, reduce the burden of commuting on ordinary Nigerians and demonstrate that political support must go beyond rhetoric to include tangible contributions to the lives of citizens.

‘We intend to commence this programme in the FCT before progressively expanding the initiative to other parts of the federation.

‘For us, supporting the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda must translate into meaningful actions that positively affect the everyday lives of Nigerians,’ he said.

According to him, his organisation’s structures are already being activated and its members on ground while its supporters are ready to demonstrate its strength and reach.

‘This is not simply about numbers or political appearances, it is about building a disciplined, coordinated and effective grassroots mobilisation network capable of translating political support into electoral results.

He said the organisation intend to establish its presence across the geopolitical zones, strengthen its state and zonal structures, engage community stakeholders and work collaboratively with other progressive political forces to ensure Tinubu’s re-election.

He said political conviction was a matter of personal judgement, conscience and the freedom of every individual to make independent choices.

He explained that his decision to establish and lead the organisation, was a deliberate political choice, made in his personal capacity and with a firm belief in the direction he chose to pursue.

‘I hold no reservations about the right of others to their differing political opinions, just as I expect my own convictions to be respected.

‘Our democracy is strengthened when individuals are free to make independent political choices, engage in constructive dialogue and support the leadership and political platforms they believe best represent their aspirations.

‘It is within this spirit that HBTO was established,’ the former vice-president’s son said.

He added that the organisation was established to bring together Nigerians who shared a common conviction in the leadership and reform agenda of President Bola Tinubu APC-led administration.

He said its objective was to build a structured, inclusive and nationally coordinated movement capable of mobilising support, engaging communities, communicating government policies and contributing meaningfully to the political process.

He said the organisation was committed to taking its message beyond political gatherings and into communities, engaging ordinary Nigerians and ensuring that the benefits and objectives of the administration’s policies were properly communicated.

‘Our political direction is informed by our assessment of the reforms and policy interventions undertaken by President Tinubu since assuming office. We acknowledge that the reforms have come with difficult adjustments for Nigerians.

‘However, we believe it is equally important to recognise the progress, opportunities and long-term benefits that several of these initiatives are designed to deliver,’ he said.

He noted that across different sectors of the economy, the administration had introduced interventions aimed at addressing longstanding structural challenges and repositioning the country for sustainable growth

Wilcon depot expands presence in North-Eastern Luzon with new Enrile, Cagayan Store

Wilcon Depot, the nation’s leading building partner, closes 2026 on a high note as it continues its pursuit of innovation, excellence, and nationwide growth with its final store opening of the year at Wilcon Depot Enrile in Cagayan on October 23, 2026.

Marking the company’s second depot branch in Cagayan Valley following its established presence in Iguig, the new store brings affordable, quality building and home improvement solutions in a wide range of choices closer to local communities.

With the region’s continued growth and increasing demand for building products and services, Wilcon Depot Enrile offers a wide selection of products, including tiles, furniture, plumbing fixtures, DIY essentials, and home interior items to support customers’ building, renovation, and home improvement needs. The new store also creates job opportunities for local residents, contributing to the community’s economic growth and development.

Beyond its wide range of quality products, the store offers convenient services to make home improvement projects easier. The 3D Design Hub helps customers bring their ideas to life through floor plans and realistic 3D layouts of living spaces, kitchens, and bathrooms. The Tile Studio showcases a wide selection of local and imported tiles, including stylish Spanish and Italian collections featuring the latest designs and trends. Meanwhile, Tile Cutting Services, using the reliable Hills Tile Cutter, ensure precise tile sizing for a perfect fit on walls and floors.

Further strengthening its commitment not only to homeowners but also to industry professionals, the opening of Wilcon Depot Enrile highlights the MyWilcon ABCDE+ program, which offers added value alongside its wide selection of quality products. Professionals can register for free by presenting a valid ID at the ABCDE+ registration booth or through the MyWilcon App.

During the opening, Wilcon Depot EVP for Sales and Retail Stores Operations, Ms. Eden Mandap, welcomed the opportunity to serve Enrile and its neighboring communities, emphasizing the company’s commitment to being a trusted partner at every stage of their building journey, from constructing new homes and improving existing spaces to undertaking larger projects.

Government officials from Enrile and nearby municipalities and cities also graced the event, reflecting the warm support of the Cagayan community for the newly opened store. Adding to the festive celebration were exciting promotions, free loyalty membership registration, and raffle activities for customers and industry professionals.

With its continued commitment to offering quality products, convenient services, and great value, Wilcon Depot looks forward to serving the growing home improvement and construction needs of the community.

Wilcon Depot Enrile, Cagayan branch is located at Barangay III-A San Jose, Enrile, Cagayan, and is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Customers may also shop online through shop.wilcon.com.ph or enjoy added convenience through Wilcon Depot’s Call, Collect, and Deliver (CCD) Program via the branch’s Viber account.

North-Central’s presidency dream held back by disunity – Showunmi

A member of the Media and Communications Community of the Presidential Campaign, Segun Showunmi, has attributed the North-Central region’s inability to produce an elected Nigerian president to disunity and a poor understanding of the country’s political dynamics.

Showunmi stated this while briefing newsmen in Makurdi, stressing the need for unity of purpose, peaceful political engagement and sustained commitment to development.

He said the region needed to mobilise substantial votes to strengthen its bargaining power and advance its presidential ambition.

According to him, Benue, with 3.05 million registered voters, could make a significant contribution to the region’s political aspirations if its electorate was effectively mobilised.

‘What has always been the challenge is, one, lack of unity among the people of North-Central; two, their inability to read the political arithmetic of power,’ he said.

Showunmi, who is also the National Convener of the Alternative Movement, argued that political power in a democracy was secured through votes and strategic negotiations rather than military intervention.

‘If you have 3.05 million votes and you bring about three million or 2.5 million votes, what would then be the reason why they will sidestep you?’ he asked.

He urged the people of Benue to close ranks, avoid unnecessary political disagreements and work together to strengthen the state’s influence in national affairs.

Showunmi said the international community had increasingly focused attention on Benue because of the security challenges and humanitarian conditions affecting the state.

He urged the region to use the attention to demonstrate its capacity for unity, effective leadership and constructive engagement.

On the national economy, Showunmi defended the economic reforms of the Tinubu administration, saying they were designed to address structural weaknesses in public finance.

He acknowledged that the reforms had imposed hardship on citizens but argued that increased revenue available to the federal, state and local governments could stimulate economic activities.

On security, he acknowledged the challenges confronting Benue and other parts of the country, noting that insurgency and other security threats required sustained intelligence gathering, inter-agency coordination and operational capacity.

He said the Tinubu administration had expanded military formations, increased recruitment opportunities and strengthened collaboration among security agencies.

Showunmi added that the proposed establishment of state police could complement existing security structures through improved intelligence gathering and faster responses to threats, provided it was backed by an appropriate legal framework.

He said state police would enable states to recruit and train personnel familiar with their communities while maintaining coordination with national policing structures.

He also cited Nigeria’s security collaboration with international partners, including the United States, Britain, France, Turkey and Germany, as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s security capabilities.

Showunmi urged Benue residents to shun internal divisions, warning that communal disagreements could undermine efforts to address the state’s security challenges.

‘The most important thing that Benue needs now is that Benue must be careful not to be the one instigating itself against itself,’ he said.

Edo seals nine Chinese-owned firms over N8.982bn tax debt

The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) has sealed off nine companies, including Rongtai Plastic Company Limited, over alleged outstanding tax liabilities of N8.982 billion.

The affected companies are located in Utesi Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.

Courage Eboigbe, Head of Corporate Communications and Taxpayers Enlightenment Service of the EIRS, stated this in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday in Benin City.

Eboigbe listed the affected companies, which are predominantly owned by Chinese nationals, such as Rongtai Hardware Limited, Rongtai Energy Technology Company Limited, Rongtai Building Materials Company Limited and Rongtai Food Company Limited.

Others are Five Star Wire and Cable Company, Xin Guo Technology Nigeria Limited, Changrong Wood Nigeria Limited and Shunda Nigeria Enterprise.

He said the N8.982 billion tax liabilities arose from the companies’ failure to comply with mandatory tax obligations.

According to him, the violations include failure to register employees for Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax, failure to file annual employers’ tax returns, and failure to deduct and remit PAYE taxes.

Eboigbe said the sealing of the companies was carried out pursuant to orders of an Edo State High Court.

He explained that before the enforcement action, formal notices detailing the established tax liabilities had been individually served on the companies.

According to him, despite repeated reminders and demands for compliance, the companies failed to settle their outstanding obligations, compelling the EIRS to exercise its legal powers to seal their operational sites pursuant to valid court orders.

‘The enforcement orders will remain in effect, while the seals will only be removed upon settlement of all outstanding tax liabilities by the defaulting companies,’ he said.

Sri Lanka India Media Friendship Association holds 3rd Annual General Meeting

The Sri Lanka India Media Friendship Association (SLIMFA) held its Third Annual General Meeting on 28 October 2026 in Colombo, with the participation of the Patron of SLIMFA and High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha and the members of SLIMFA.

The meeting saw the election of the new Executive Committee for the coming year. Nisthar Cassim was re-elected as President, while Shehan Baranage, Kalani Kumarasinghe, Rifthi Ali, Santosh Menon, Dinesh De Alwis, Arosha Fernando, Robert Anthony, Dilrukshi Hadunnetti and Mahesh Bandara were elected to serve as members of the Executive Committee. The President thanked members for their continued support and expressed his hope for continued collaboration in strengthening media ties.

The High Commissioner highlighted the important role played by SLIMFA in fostering deeper engagement and collaboration between the media communities of India and Sri Lanka. He also congratulated the Association on organising impactful initiatives within a short period since its establishment. The High Commissioner wished SLIMFA success in their endeavours to further strengthen media cooperation, encourage professional exchanges and deepen the bonds of friendship between India and Sri Lanka.

Established in May 2024, SLIMFA brings together Sri Lankan journalists who have visited India under Government of India supported programmes, providing a platform for sustained engagement and knowledge-sharing between the media communities of both countries.

Since its establishment, the Association has organised several initiatives, including Sri Lanka’s first-ever Media Fest and its second edition in 2026, an AI Masterclass for media professionals, interactions with visiting Indian journalists, an Editors’ Roundtable, and discussions on media practices and election coverage. These initiatives have provided opportunities for media professionals to exchange experiences, explore emerging trends and share best practices.

Through its continued engagement, SLIMFA seeks to strengthen professional networks and facilitate greater collaboration between media professionals in India and Sri Lanka, further reinforcing the longstanding friendship and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

NCE reviews export sector barriers and new forex opportunities

The National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE) reviewed sectoral issues, export-market requirements and overseas trade plans at its Council meeting on 20 October 2026. Held in partnership with Prime Group and Melwa at the Prime Marina Sales Suite in Port City, the meeting considered matters the Chamber is taking up with authorities.

The Council reviewed issues being pursued with Government institutions.

Among the matters discussed was the delay in implementing the Madrid Protocol. WIPO›s Madrid System provides trademark holders with a one-stop solution to secure and manage brand protection and covers 117 members representing 133 countries and over 80% of global trade, with more than 1.7 million registered trademarks. According to NIPO, the final draft is now to be submitted to Parliament for approval.

The Council also discussed restrictions affecting the forest sector, and difficulties faced by electrical and electronic product exporters. During January-August 2026, Sri Lanka›s Electrical and Electronic Components (EEC) exports grew exceptionally, by 57.49% YoY to $ 440.31 million. For August 2026 alone, sector earnings reached $ 62.4 million, supported by a 30.83% rise in Insulated Wires and Cables. Overall, this performance highlights the industry›s expanding competitiveness and export potential.

The NCE has been following up with the relevant authorities on these issues, including seeking a documented action plan from the Environment Ministry.

It has also requested further support from the Sri Lankan Commercial Officer in India in addressing trade difficulties arising from India›s BIS-QCOs and discussions with the Inland Revenue Department on VAT refunds are also being pursued.

Changes to import procedures and new European Union regulations were mentioned in the meeting›s review of trade-related concerns. Following Customs› shift to digital processing of import documentation on 1 October, the NCE is surveying exporters to identify difficulties with importing raw materials, machinery, packaging materials and other inputs.

NCE and other stakeholders are seeking technical assistance and training for exporters preparing to help Sri Lankan exporters comply with regulations, including EU›s new limits on mineral oil contaminants (MOAH) in food and agricultural products, due to take effect in January 2027. The EU›s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation was also discussed, given its implications for exporters supplying that market.

At the next sectoral discussions, members will address mineral-based products, chemicals, engineering, and electrical and electronic products.

Topics include supply-chain bottlenecks, tariff barriers under bilateral free trade agreements, standardisation and raw-material costs.

Conducting a presentation on ‘Export and Beyond’, entrepreneur, Chartered Engineer, inventor and KIK Group of Companies Founder and Chairman Lalith Kahatapitiya called for new foreign-exchange channels beyond existing sources. He emphasised the importance of several measures for the economy, including re-exports, local suppliers serving exporters, and the need for a new National Business Facilitation Centre.

The Chamber’s overseas programs are also taking shape, a visit to Italy and Sweden is planned for March 2027, with a trade show in Milan and business meetings in Stockholm. The council also discussed several upcoming plans, such as the NCE Budget Forum on 19 November and the 34th NCE Export Awards on 11 December are also approaching.

Kwara govt launches gender policy in education to promote equal learning opportunities

The Kwara State Government has unveiled its policy on Gender in Education and its implementation guidelines to promote equal educational opportunities, address gender related barriers and strengthen inclusive learning across the state.

The policy was unveiled by the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development in collaboration with the Kwara State Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project in Ilorin.

Lawal Olohungbebe Ph.D, Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, described the unveiling as an important step towards ensuring equal educational opportunities for every child in the State.

He acknowledged the leadership of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and his administration’s commitment to educational development, particularly initiatives affecting girls’ education.

‘The success of this policy will depend not only on its official unveiling but also on our collective commitment to its effective implementation.

‘I therefore encourage all relevant stakeholders to take ownership of the policy and work together to translate its provisions into practical actions and measurable results.

‘As we officially unveil this document, let us renew our commitment to ensuring that gender does not become a barrier to access, participation, retention, or achievement in education,’ he stated.

The Commissioner, who was represented by Rebecca Bake Olanrewaju, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, commended the State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) and everyone who contributed to the domestication of the document.

Adeshina Salami, the Kwara AGILE Project Coordinator, explained that the policy was adapted from the national framework to reflect the peculiar needs and circumstances of the state.

Salami noted the domestication process was necessary so that the national policy could be effectively implemented within Kwara State’s education system, even as he described the launch as an exercise in ownership.

He stressed that, when everyone commits to the policy and does their part, it becomes harder for any girl to be left behind, adding that, ‘by the end of today, we want more awareness of this policy, clearer understanding of roles, and a positive commitment to gender responsive education.’

He explained that the process was facilitated by the project’s System Strengthening Sub Component, 3.1, with Development Options Consulting Limited as the implementing partner. He said the company, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Olatunji Awoleye, supported the adaptation of the document.

According to Salami, the policy is designed to guide educational planning and service delivery, ensuring that learners of all genders have access to educational infrastructure, facilities and opportunities for improved learning outcomes.

He added that its implementation would cover all levels of education, from primary and secondary schools to tertiary institutions.

Lawal Hamzat, Deputy Project Coordinator of Kwara AGILE, who also doubles as the System Strengthening Lead, highlighted the importance of the policy in strengthening the sustainability of educational interventions and supporting government efforts to address challenges affecting learners.

He noted that it provides a strategic framework for improving educational access and participation, while addressing gender based violence and other barriers that may stop learners from reaching their full potential.

Education stakeholders at the event commended the state government and the AGILE Project for the initiative, and urged them to sustain their efforts towards improving educational opportunities and outcomes across the state.