Category: Nigerian Tribune

DETAILS of how the South-West caucus of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may adopt a preferred candidate for national secretary ahead of the national convention of the party coming between November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital emerged on Monday.

Nigerian Tribune recalls that the battle for the position, which is zoned to the South-East in the outgoing dispensation, was mired on controversy and litigation between two tendencies, which left the PDP almost in limbo for about two years.

The PDP eventually settled for one of the claimants to the post, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, in a seeming compromise at the 100th National Executive Committee of party.

Some main stakeholders in the party told the Nigerian Tribune that the leaders from the South-West were holding extensive consultations on how to come up with a consensus candidate since the position is already ceded to the geopolitical zone ahead of the elective convention.

A source said two bigwigs of PDP from the South-West have in London as more party faithful intensified lobbying for their preferred choice from Ogun State, which is micro-zoned with Lagos State.

Incidentally, the current deputy national secretary of PDP, Architect Setonji Koshedo, hails from Lagos.

Other party chieftains informed the Nigerian Tribune that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State would be given the right to put forward a possible preferred candidate because of the status and strategic position of the two-term governor in PDP caucus in the South-West.

But his choice, according to the leaders, would not be automatic as it will be subject to due process since, in the words of one the PDP elders; PDP is not a one-man show.

The stakeholders also ruled out the possibility of either Oyo or Osun getting the privilege to present candidates for the post of national secretary, since both states currently hold the posts of deputy national chairman and national vice chairman/zonal chairman respectively.

In a memo dated September 1, 2025, addressed to the PDP national chairman through the deputy national chairman (South), the zoning committee for the Southern Region zoned the positions opf national auditor, and deputy national organizing secretary along with national secretary to the South-West.

The committee recommended the posts of national financial secretary, deputy national secretary, national women’s leader and deputy national leader to the South-East, while the offices of deputy national chairman (South), national publicity secretary, deputy national treasurer and deputy national legal adviser were proposed for the South-South.

Speaking to the Nigerian Tribune on the phone on preparations for the PDP convention as regards national offices, a former deputy national chairman of PDP, Chief Bode George, emphasised the issue of privileged that would be given Governor Makinde in making a greater input into who emerges as the consensus candidate of the South-West as national secretary, in consultations with other elders and leaders of thought of the party.

George, who is a member of the Board of Trustees of the PDP, said: ‘The governor should have an interest in who emerges as the candidate for the position given his position in the South-West PDP caucus. Though it is not automatic, we must able to concede to the governor. We will share whatever is left.

‘If there are certain things we observe that needs a collective action, we will settle them. He knows what he wants in consultations with elders.

‘Whatever he brings, we will approve and if there are issues, we will address them and move forward. That’s the way the PDP works, once it is something that will bring comfort, unity and progress to the South-West.

He said the PDP was ‘not like the other political party because there is no room for arbitrariness; we have had all congresses at the ward, local and state levels.’

‘The position they gave us, we will have to call a meeting and work with the elders. We will network and get the support of everybody. It is a collective responsibility. It is not a private property,’ Chief George said.

A former national vice chairman of PDP, Chief Eddy Olufeso, said that all processes that will culminate into the national convention remain seamless, citing the conduct of congresses from ward to the local and state levels so far.

He said the leaders do not envisage any form of hiccups because of the ongoing collaborative efforts of the critical stakeholders in the PDP to guarantee the emergence of formidable structures.

Similarly, a member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the party, Senator Olu Alabi, told the Nigerian Tribune that there are concerted efforts by the leaders to produce a consensus candidate for the post of national secretary.

LAGOS State Government has been called to take urgent and lasting action to address the persistent flooding that continues to devastate the Lekki axis.

In a statement issued by the Lekki Chapter of the Neo-Black Movement of Africa, the group bemoaned the recurring floods that destroy homes, disrupt livelihoods, and hinder economic growth in one of Lagos’ fastest-growing districts.

Speaking, the Chapter President, Mr. Erauyi Agbon-Ifo, advocated for compensation and an insurance framework to support households and businesses affected by the floods, arguing that taxpayers deserve fair restitution for their losses.

He said the yearly flood inflicted pains on residents as they lost valuables worth millions of naira in the deluge

He canvassed the need for government, private organisations, and community groups to collaborate on sustainable solutions that go beyond temporary relief.

The group urged the state to improve drainage infrastructure, expand stormwater channels, and ensure consistent maintenance of existing systems. It also cited Rivers State as a model for effective flood management despite similar coastal challenges.

It also called for intensified public enlightenment on proper waste disposal, flood prevention, and climate adaptation measures.

Expressing solidarity with affected families, the NBM reaffirmed its commitment to continued advocacy until concrete government action is achieved.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Monday marked another milestone in its transformation journey with the commissioning of the NAF Headquarters Annex Complex in Gudu, Abuja.

This was contained in a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Monday by the Service Spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

According to the statement, the new NAF headquarters annex facility, designed to decongest the overstretched Headquarters in Garki, was described as a bold step towards strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing productivity, and boosting personnel welfare.

Beyond its administrative value, the project also reinforced the NAF’s capacity to project airpower more effectively in defending the nation and protecting the lives of citizens.

Speaking at the event, the Special Guest Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, commended the foresight of the NAF leadership, noting that the project reflected resilience, vision, and commitment to institutional growth.

He observed that since its establishment in 1964, the Air Force had expanded tremendously in scope and responsibility, creating the need for new administrative and operational support structures.

According to him, relocating key branches such as the Air Secretary, Standards and Evaluation, Transformation and Innovation, as well as the 051 Personnel Management Group and an Annex of the Chief of the Air Staff’s Office, would not only ease congestion but also provide a firmer institutional foundation for the future.

While praising the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, for aligning the project with his Command Philosophy of maintaining a highly motivated force through welfare and infrastructural renewal, he declared, ‘This Annex is a reflection of the Air Force’s habit of excellence and foresight’.

In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff explained that the Gudu Annex was deliberately acquired and remodelled to create a conducive work environment and strengthen coordination.

He emphasised that the project underscored the Service’s commitment to excellence and welfare, noting that motivation thrives where efficiency and infrastructure are prioritised.

According to him, ‘the commissioning of the HQ NAF Annex stands as a testament to our dynamism, resilience, and forward-looking posture,’

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sani, described the commissioning of the Headquarters Nigerian Air Force Annex Complex in Gudu as more than the unveiling of a new structure.

He noted that the event represents a defining milestone in the continuous transformation and dynamic growth of the Nigerian Air Force.

Several dignitaries attended the occasion, including the Acting Chairman of the Senate Committee on Air Force, Senator Augustine Akobundu; the Chairman of the House Committee on Air Force, Honourable Kabiru Al-Hassan Rurum; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Service Chiefs and other senior officers.

The Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed the crucial role of strategic communication and artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping effective governance and leadership in today’s digital world.

Declaring open the 6th edition of the Delta State Strategic Communication Workshop (DELCOM 2025) on Monday at Hotel Benizia, Asaba, the Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, emphasised that digital tools and AI have become indispensable to governance, public enlightenment, and national development.

‘The theme of this year’s workshop, Strategic Communication in the Digital Age: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Digital Tools for Effective Leadership, is both timely and relevant.

‘In an era where digital platforms and AI are reshaping governance and public communication, it is imperative that we embrace innovation and utilise these modern tools to effectively project the progress of our dear state,’ Governor Oborevwori stated.

The Governor stressed that nation-building requires more than policies and infrastructure, describing effective communication as the lifeline of peace, unity, and progress.

‘Nation-building thrives on dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding.

‘Equally important is the role of constructive criticism, which enables the government to refine its policies, improve service delivery, and remain responsive to the needs of the people,’ he said.

While urging media practitioners and government communicators to uphold professionalism and responsibility, Governor Oborevwori cautioned against misinformation and digital manipulation, warning that ‘propaganda, fake news, and cyberbullying erode public trust and undermine our collective progress.’

Highlighting some of his administration’s achievements, the Governor noted significant strides in infrastructure, education, and financial accountability.

‘Our administration has embarked on extensive road construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance to ease mobility, promote commerce, and enhance living standards,’ he explained.

‘Transparency and accountability remain at the heart of our financial practices, ensuring that every kobo is judiciously applied for the benefit of our citizens.’

He further stated that the state’s strategic investment in education continues to empower Deltans with the skills required to thrive in today’s knowledge-driven economy.

‘Through policies and initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, we are creating sustainable employment opportunities for our people,’ the Governor added.

He commended the organisers of DELCOM 2025, led by the Director-General of the Delta State Orientation and Communication Bureau, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, for sustaining the annual platform, which, he said, ‘continues to enhance the capacity of government communicators and strengthen leadership across all sectors.’

In his welcome address, Oghenesivbe said the workshop had, since its inception, trained over 900 participants in the effective communication of government policies and programmes. He described this year’s theme as particularly relevant given the growing influence of digital media and AI in public engagement.

‘As communicators, we must stay ahead of the curve by harnessing the power of AI and digital tools to shape public opinion and drive positive narratives,’ Oghenesivbe said.

He also urged participants to understand the legal framework guiding responsible communication, including the Cybercrimes Act 2024 and laws on libel and defamation.

‘Defamation has grave consequences, including fines and imprisonment,’ he warned, urging all communicators to verify their sources and maintain factual accuracy.

The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, represented by the Majority Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, underscored the importance of AI in transforming governance and leadership communication.

‘In today’s world of instant information and social media, strategic communication is no longer a luxury – it is the lifeblood of effective leadership,’ he said.

‘Artificial intelligence is not here to replace human creativity but to augment our capabilities. It can help governments analyse public sentiment, translate messages into local languages, and make policy decisions based on real-time data.’

The Chief Adviser to the Governor, Senator Ighoyota Amori, commended Governor Oborevwori for consistently approving capacity-building programmes for government spokespersons, media partners, online publishers, and social media influencers in the state.

‘You can’t demand excellence from people you have not trained,’ he said, urging participants to maximise the opportunity to learn modern communication strategies.

Adding humorously that his generation belongs to the analogue era, Senator Amori expressed curiosity about AI and anticipation for the session on Digital Leadership and Crisis Communication. He commended the State Coordinator of DELCOM, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, for his tenacity, commitment, and dedication to assigned responsibilities.

The Delta State Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Minnie Oseji, in her goodwill message, revealed that her office had trained over 500 civil servants across 19 ministries, departments, and agencies in digitalisation. She described the AI-focused theme of DELCOM 2025 as ‘a welcome development that aligns perfectly with the state’s digital transformation agenda.’

‘This should not just be another training for relaxation,’ she cautioned. ‘We expect tangible and measurable results when you return to your MDAs and step down the knowledge gained.’

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr Gibson Pinnick, said effective communication is key to transparency and trust in governance.

‘In this digital age, leadership is not just about decision-making but about how effectively those decisions are communicated,’ he said.

‘Workshops like DELCOM equip political appointees, media partners, and influencers to turn public information into public understanding.’

Facilitators at the three-day workshop include Prof Joyce Ogwezi, who leads the session on Strategic Communication for Leaders; Dr Monday Ashibogwu, who trains participants on AI-Powered Leadership Communication; and Prof Presley Obukoadata, who handles Digital Leadership and Crisis Communication.

Participants are expected to challenge their curiosity, strengthen their communication skills, and apply the knowledge gained to improve public engagement and government representation.

The 6th Edition of DELCOM 2025 is organised by the Delta State Orientation and Communication Bureau under the leadership of Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe. It is designed to sharpen the skills of participants and bring them up to speed with the latest digital tools and artificial intelligence technologies for effective media engagement.

As Delta State continues its digital transformation drive, DELCOM 2025 is poised to play a defining role in building a new cadre of communicators skilled in artificial intelligence, strategic messaging, and ethical reporting. By bridging the gap between governance and public understanding, the workshop reaffirms Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to transparent leadership, innovation, and inclusive growth in a rapidly evolving information age.

Participants at the workshop included political appointees, government media partners, journalists, Public Relations Officers from ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), academia, the police, the NDLEA, online publishers, and notable social media influencers.

The three-day capacity-building workshop will conclude on Wednesday, 8 October 2025, with the presentation of certificates of attendance by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and the induction of Members, Fellows, and Distinguished Fellows of the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (CIISM) by the President of the Institute, Ambassador Dr (Mrs) Temile Uduogho Oritseweyinmi.

Also in attendance at the opening ceremony were the Commissioner for Higher Education (represented), Commissioner for the Bureau for Special Duties, Chief Ejiro Terry Etacherure, Commissioner for Youth Development, Barrister ThankGod Trakiriowei Harry, State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (represented), Sir Eddie Gbegbaje, Chairman, State Bureau for Pensions (represented), Manager, Communications, Government House, Jackson Ekugwum, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, and Executive Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Comrade Felix Ofou.

Other dignitaries included Dr Donald Peterson, Special Adviser to the Governor on Entrepreneurship Development (represented); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Dr Ngozi Mogbolu; Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Political and Security Services, Mr Theophilus Chukwudi Aguonye; State Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Godfrey Osakwe; General Manager, Delta Broadcasting Service Warri, Pastor Malcolm Oteri; and General Manager, Delta Broadcasting Service Asaba, Mrs Kristine Emetulu, among others.

The story of development in Nigeria is often written in the dust and mud of its roads. Highways are not just strips of asphalt; they are lifelines that connect farms to markets, towns to cities, and families to opportunity. When they fail, they do not simply inconvenience motorists. They cut communities off, strangle economic activity, embolden criminals, and corrode public trust in governance. In Edo State, the decay of federal roads has for years symbolised this national malaise. Yet under Governor Monday Okpebholo, a new chapter is being written, one where leadership refuses to hide behind jurisdictional excuses and instead accepts that the welfare of citizens must come before the politics of federal and state boundaries. For years, Edo people watched with frustration as critical highways deteriorated into craters and death traps. The previous administration under Godwin Obaseki adopted a stance that proved deeply unpopular: the position that federal roads should remain the federal government’s responsibility.

In principle, this might have seemed administratively correct, but in practice, it was devastating. Roads are not used by ‘federal people’ or ‘state people.’ They are used by Nigerians, and in this case, overwhelmingly by the people of Edo State who bore the brunt of the neglect. By refusing to intervene even with temporary measures, the past government left commuters stranded, traders counting losses, farmers unable to move produce, and families exposed to grave danger. The failures on these highways became not just a logistical nightmare but a metaphor for indifference, deepening the divide between citizens’ expectations and governmental response. Governor Okpebholo has chosen a markedly different path. From his first months in office, he treated the condition of federal roads not as an abstract problem awaiting Abuja’s slow machinery, but as an urgent developmental and security challenge. His administration flagged off emergency palliative repairs on major failed sections in Edo North, simultaneously moving to intervene in other critical corridors that had effectively collapsed.

These actions are more than symbolic. They have restored mobility to areas where traffic once crawled or stopped entirely, brought relief to communities that had been cut off, and given traders and farmers renewed access to markets. By taking visible, immediate steps, the governor has sent a clear message: the state cannot afford to wait for distant bureaucracies while its people suffer. The immediacy of these interventions is key to their effectiveness. Across Nigeria, citizens are accustomed to hearing long speeches about future projects that may never materialise. Okpebholo’s approach has been to act quickly with palliative works, grading, resurfacing, and controlling erosion, so that relief is felt within weeks, not years. These fixes are not permanent, and he does not pretend that they are, but they serve an invaluable purpose. They buy time, reduce accidents, facilitate commerce, and restore a sense of normalcy. In a context where waiting for complete federal reconstruction can take a decade, such stopgap measures are not just practical, they are lifesaving.

Equally significant is the way the governor has framed road rehabilitation as a matter of public safety. Edo, like much of Nigeria, has struggled with insecurity along isolated and broken road corridors. Criminals exploit these failed highways to stage kidnappings and robberies, taking advantage of traffic jams and poor visibility. By intervening in these areas, the government is not just fixing asphalt but reclaiming territory from criminal elements. A smooth, passable road is easier to patrol, harder for criminals to exploit, and safer for travelers. This linkage between infrastructure and security reframes the debate. It reminds the public that development and protection are intertwined, and that a government which repairs roads is also, in effect, fighting crime. Another pillar of Okpebholo’s strategy has been his openness to partnerships and external financing. Infrastructure repair is expensive, and state resources are limited. Rather than hide behind this constraint, his administration has reached outward. The recent investment summit in Glasgow, which attracted $250 million in diaspora and private investment commitments, reflects this openness. While the funds are targeted at multiple sectors, including energy, agriculture, and industry, the willingness to attract and negotiate such commitments creates fiscal breathing space. It signals that Edo is not waiting passively for federal allocations but is creatively expanding its revenue and investment base. This approach marks a clear departure from the more insular economic management of the past and demonstrates how international engagement can be tied back to local development needs.

Beyond finance, the culture of governance is also shifting. The Okpebholo administration has leaned into visibility and accountability. By publicly flagging off projects, setting timelines, and giving regular updates, it creates benchmarks against which citizens can measure progress. This openness makes it harder for projects to vanish into procurement limbo and raises public expectations for continuity. It also builds trust, which is perhaps the most intangible yet essential asset for any government. Citizens who believe their leaders are acting in their interest are more willing to endure temporary discomfort and more likely to support long-term development plans. What makes this entire approach particularly instructive for other states is its pragmatism. Too often, federalism in Nigeria is invoked as a shield for inaction. Governors deflect responsibility by insisting that certain roads or facilities belong to the federal government. While technically correct, such excuses leave citizens to wonder whether their suffering is lessened by the knowledge of jurisdiction.

Okpebholo’s decision to act anyway recognises a fundamental truth: government is judged by outcomes, not excuses.

The fact that the roads in question are labeled ‘federal’ does not change the reality that they are used by the people of Edo, and it is their welfare that matters most. This lesson-that governance is ultimately about responsibility to people, not paperwork-should resonate across Nigeria.

Of course, caution is necessary. Emergency palliatives, no matter how welcome, are not substitutes for complete reconstruction and long-term maintenance. States that follow Edo’s example must ensure that patchwork does not become permanent policy. The ultimate goal must remain full rehabilitation and modernization, ideally in partnership with the federal government and private contractors.

Yet even here, Okpebholo’s model offers guidance. By demonstrating good faith through immediate interventions, states strengthen their case when lobbying Abuja for larger projects. They can point to the fact that they have already put their own skin in the game, thereby creating a moral and political claim for federal follow-up.

There is also the critical issue of transparency. For interventions to serve as models, procurement must be clean, contracts must deliver value for money, and timelines must be respected. Substandard works not only waste funds but also erode the very trust these interventions are meant to build.

Yet for all the caveats, the significance of Okpebholo’s interventions cannot be overstated. Roads are among the most visible and visceral symbols of governance. They touch every aspect of life-from how quickly food gets to the market, to whether children arrive at school on time, to whether patients can reach hospitals in emergencies.

They affect not just the economy but also the dignity of daily life. By stepping in where his predecessor chose to step aside, Okpebholo has not only rehabilitated stretches of tarmac but also restored a sense of care and connection between the government and the governed. He has demonstrated that leadership is not about pointing fingers at who should act, but about taking responsibility for those who must live with the consequences of inaction.

If other states follow this example, the transformation of Nigeria’s federal roads may begin not from Abuja but from the courage of governors willing to put their people first. It may begin with simple palliative works and culminate in sustained partnerships for full reconstruction.

What matters most is the willingness to act. In Edo, Governor Okpebholo has shown that willingness, and in doing so, he has offered a model of governance that is pragmatic, responsive, and deeply human. That, more than any technical detail, is the lesson other states should take away: when leaders refuse to normalise bad roads, they do more than fix infrastructure-they restore hope, dignity, and the promise of progress.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honour on Professor Mahmood Yakubu following the expiration of his second term in office as chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Tinubu, in a statement announcing his acceptance of Yakubu’s departure, said the honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) bestowed on him was in recognition of his dedicated service to the nation.

Yakubu was first appointed in November 2015 as the 14th chairman of the commission for an initial term of five years. The appointment, which was renewed in 2020, has now expired due to the passage of time.

Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement on Tuesday said President Tinubu thanked Prof. Yakubu for his services to the nation and his efforts to sustain Nigeria’s democracy, particularly through the organisation of free and fair elections throughout his two-term tenure.

‘President Tinubu also directed that Professor Yakubu should hand over to the most senior national commissioner, May Agbamuche-Mbu, who will direct the affairs of the commission until the completion of the process to appoint a successor,’ the statement noted.

In the letter dated October 3, 2025, Professor Yakubu thanked the President for the opportunity to serve the nation as chairman of the commission since 2015.

Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner, Imisi Ayanwale, has officially received her grand prize package worth N150 million, comprising N80 million in cash and a brand-new SUV from Innoson Motors.

The prize presentation ceremony took place on Tuesday in Ilupeju, Lagos, where representatives from Innoson Motors handed over the car keys to the reality TV star in the presence of show sponsors and organizers.

The BBNaija housemate, Imisi emerged as the winner of the highly competitive Season 10 on Sunday, October 5, after securing 42.8% of the total votes to beat fellow finalists Dede, Koyin, and Sultana.

In addition to the cash prize and SUV, Imisi’s rewards include several brand endorsements and gift items from the show’s sponsors, bringing her total winnings to N150 million.

Her victory marks another milestone for female champions in the Big Brother Naija franchise, joining the ranks of Mercy Eke, Phyna, and Ilebaye.

Since her win, fans and celebrities have flooded social media with congratulatory messages, hailing her performance throughout the season and describing her victory as well-deserved.

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage, announcing the signing of an Executive Order that makes health insurance mandatory for all residents of the state.

Governor Sanwo-Olu restated this at the maiden edition of the 2025 Eko Health Convention, held on Tuesday in Lekki and organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Health, with the theme: ‘Lagos Health: Driving Innovation, Strengthening Systems, Leading Change.’

The governor, represented by his deputy, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, said the move aligns with the National Health Insurance Act by ensuring that every Lagosian contributes according to their ability and enjoys protection when they need care.

‘When we launched the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme in February 2021, we made it clear that universal health coverage requires a reliable and inclusive system.

‘In July 2024, I signed an Executive Order making health insurance mandatory for all residents of Lagos State. Some may ask why health insurance should be mandatory? The answer is simple: without a shared pool of resources, universal coverage is impossible. When everyone participates, we protect families from financial hardship, strengthen hospitals, and make healthcare stable and equitable for all,’ he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that for health insurance to be truly effective, it must be supported by a strong emergency response system. He highlighted that the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), has continued to strengthen the backbone of its emergency medical system to ensure that the promise of ILERA EKO is matched by the capacity to respond swiftly, efficiently, and compassionately when lives are at stake.

‘These attempts affirm our conviction that timely and efficient emergency care must be a right, not a privilege. The Lagos Emergency Medical Blueprint is already saving lives.

‘Today, Lagos boasts of 360 public health facilities and more than 3,500 private ones, forming a unified ecosystem where public and private providers work side by side to bridge divides, expand access, and uphold the promise of a truly integrated healthcare system for every resident,’ the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu urged health stakeholders to deepen investment in innovation, expand corporate social responsibility, and reimagine the future of healthcare through technology, creativity, and service, ensuring a system where access is determined not by income, but by need.

He further emphasised that good health is a shared responsibility, noting that progress in healthcare can only be sustained through partnership and the collective effort of every sector, profession, and citizen.

According to him, it is the collective responsibility of the people not only to hold government accountable but also to hold themselves accountable by enrolling in health insurance, participating in vaccination campaigns, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, reporting quackery, adopting healthy lifestyles, and demanding quality care.

He added that since its inception, his administration has prioritised Health and Environment in its THEMES agenda, pledging to build a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, innovative, and of the highest quality.

Speaking further, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted major achievements under his administration, including the commissioning of new Maternal and Child Centres in Eti-Osa, Badagry, and Epe; the renovation and expansion of General Hospitals; and the construction of critical health facilities such as the New Massey Street Specialist Children’s Hospital, the Ojo General Hospital, the Lagos State Mental Health Institute in Ketu-Ejirin, and the Cardio-Renal Centre in Gbagada.

The State Commissioner for Health, Prof Akin Abayomi, in his address, said the new health blueprint of the state government would transform Lagos into Africa’s healthcare powerhouse, reducing mortality rates and boosting economic growth through a bold and data-driven overhaul of the health system.

Abayomi disclosed that Lagos currently loses about $1.5 billion annually to outbound medical tourism, a figure greater than the state’s health budget. He stressed that the new health transformation blueprint aims to build world-class facilities, expand health insurance coverage, and create jobs in the medical and biotech sectors.

‘The Governor’s blueprint includes climate-resilient hospital designs, modern general hospitals, a 500-bed psychiatric and rehabilitation centre, and the establishment of Lagos State University of Medicine and Health Science.

‘It also introduces a Smart Health Information Platform (SHIP), a digital system linking all public hospitals and primary health centers for efficient data sharing and decision-making. Our goal is clear. Lagos must become the health capital of sub-Saharan Africa, not just for Nigerians, but for the continent,’ he said.

The commissioner added that Africa must build healthcare facilities that are environmentally sustainable, technologically advanced, and globally competitive, noting that the plan could help reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign medical care while positioning Lagos as a hub for healthcare innovation and medical tourism.

In her opening address, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Government on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, underscored the importance of collaboration in reshaping the healthcare landscape of the state, affirming the government’s commitment to providing quality and affordable healthcare for all residents.

Ogunyemi explained that the government’s objectives and vision were clear, saying the focus was to educate and empower citizens to take full control of their health and wellness.

According to her, part of the objectives and vision is to ensure that the healthcare services provided by the state government are ‘of quality for every single person who lives in Lagos and the citizens of Lagos, because we want to improve the health service in Lagos.’

‘Therefore, we believe in collaboration, which is through the Public Private Partnership (PPP), because we, as government, know we cannot do it ourselves,’ Ogunyemi said.

The Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC) has announced that 805 candidates from 10 political parties will contest in the Local Government Council elections scheduled for November 1, 2025.

The breakdown of candidates by party is as follows: All Progressives Congress (APC) – Chairmanship: 25, Vice-Chairmanship: 25, Councillors: 274.

Additionally, it said 23 candidates are contesting Chairmanship positions on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), while 21 candidates are contesting Vice-Chairmanship positions on the platform of the party, just as 233 candidates are contesting as Councillors on the party’s platform.

The NSIEC Chairman further noted that under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), 16 candidates shall be contesting Chairmanship positions, while 26 others shall be contesting Vice-Chairmanship positions on the platform of the party, just as 144 candidates shall be contesting as Councillors in the party.

The NSIEC Chairman, Engr. Mohammed Jibrin Imam further explained that in the Labour Party (LP), five candidates shall be contesting for Chairmanship positions on the platform of the party, adding that four candidates are going to contest for the Vice-Chairmanship positions, while 12 candidates shall be contesting for Councillorship positions on the platform of the LP.

Furthermore, Engr. Jibrin Imam stressed that two candidates shall be contesting for Councillorship positions on the platform of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) in the upcoming elections next month, while one candidate shall emerge for the Councillorship position on the platform of the Booth Party (BP).

According to the NSIEC Chairman, one candidate shall be contesting for the Councillorship position on the platform of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), Action Alliance (AA), and Accord Party, respectively.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday said the state has raised the bar in safety of lives and property by inaugurating the Safety First Campaign and Occupational Safety Cadre, regarded as first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Governor Sanwo-Olu stated this in his keynote address at the third Lagos State Occupational Safety and Health Conference (LASOSH), held in Lagos, as he unveiled 28 Occupational Safety Officers with him as the Commandant and also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bank of Industry (BOI) as part of ensuring safety across the state.

Speaking at the conference, themed: ‘Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) as a catalyst for nation Building,’ Sanwo-Olu described groundbreaking cadre was not just a bureaucratic innovation, but a bold declaration that Lagos is setting new standards in public service professionalism.

He said such move translates, for the first time, that safety would not be treated as an ad-hoc responsibility but as a recognized career path, complete with structure, expertise, and continuity.

According to him, this step will ensure that generations of Lagosians benefit from a professional corps dedicated solely to occupational safety and health, even as he quickly noted that the future of safety lies in technology and data, which he said ‘Lagos has taken the lead with the deployment of a safety application that empowers citizens to report hazards in real time, among others.

‘As we celebrate past achievements, we must also look ahead. The future of safety lies in technology and data. Lagos has taken the lead with the deployment of a safety application that empowers citizens to report hazards in real time, drones for aerial surveillance of high-risk zones, and body cameras equipped with thermal functionalities to support compliance monitoring, enforcement, and emergency response.

‘These tools are deliberate investments in predictive governance. They allow us to identify safety issues as they emerge, study trends and patterns, and act proactively rather than reactively. This is how Lagos is setting the pace, using innovation not only to secure today but also to anticipate tomorrow,’ the governor said.

‘However, let me stress that the government cannot do it alone. The safety of Lagos is the responsibility of every stakeholder, public institutions, private enterprises, civil society, academia, and the ordinary citizen.

‘Together, we must nurture a culture where cutting corners is no longer tolerated; where safety is not seen as a cost, but as an investment in sustainability and human dignity,’ he added.

The governor, however, charged the safety officers to ensure that there was fairness and justice at all times, saying that they needed to discharge their duties responsibly.

‘If you don’t need to shut a place down, do not shut it down. If you think that what they did is just to encourage them, to speak to them, that’s all you need to do. It’s when you know that you want the full hand of the law on them, then you do not shy away from doing that. And so we need to do it responsibly, with a sense of accountability,’ he said.

Director General, Lagos State Safety Commission (LSC), Mr. Lanre Mojola, in his remarks, noted that enforcement action was reducing in the state as compliance was increasing.

‘We’re doing a lot of work in terms of regulations. Some of the regulations have been around swimming pool control, construction safety, dangerous goods, transportation. Lagos has the port. So we find out that a lot of people move things, dangerous goods, oil, gas, from Lagos to the hinterland.

‘One of the things that we’ve also done is the establishment of the Occupational Safety Officers. It’s the first in Africa. Just like the E1 was first over the weekend.

‘Today, we’re introducing 28 new Occupational Safety Officers for Lagos State Government. We intend to continue to employ more as time passes on,’ Mojola stated.

Mojola reiterated that over 20,000 facilities already registered had GPIS with pictorial evidence, saying that the Commission was leveraging AI to ensure prediction of issues before they crystallise.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Special Duties and intergovernmental Relations, Mr Olugbenga Oyerinde, pointed out that occupational and general public safety remained a top priority to the state government, adding: ‘Every Lagosian deserves to live, work, and move freely without any fear.’

The commissioner noted that this year’s conference had become a platform to host leaders of thought, Safety practitioners, policy makers, and industry players, saying that they all came together to exchange ideas, review progress, and to chart pathways for safer workplaces and safer communities.

‘This conference has become a platform to host leaders of thought, Safety practitioners, policy makers, and industry players who come together to exchange ideas, review progress, and to chart pathways for safer workplaces and safer communities,’ he said.