Category: The Nation – Nigeria

Lagos State government has restated its commitment to position the state as the global centre for creative industry.

Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture, Lagos State, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, who spoke with reporters to announce the kick-off this year’s Design Week Lagos (DWL), Africa’s festival of design, innovation, and culture, said the state will use the platform of the six-day programme to strengthen its push to become a global destination for the creative industry.

According to her, the DWL event aligned with the state government’s resolve to position the state as a global destination for the creative industry.

‘Design week is one of the things Nigeria should look at as a nation because it is the celebration of the hard work of young Nigerians doing great things,’ she said.

Also speaking on the occasion, the Founder, DWL, Titi Ogufere, said the programme is which began yesterday will end on October 28, 2025.

She said DWL will transform Lagos into a city-wide celebration of creativity under the theme ‘Made in Africa: Shaping Industries, Shaping Futures.’

Ogufere stated that DWL, now in its seventh year, has evolved into a global platform that spotlights African design excellence and connects creativity with commerce.

Since its debut in 2019, DWL has hosted hundreds of designers, brands, and thinkers from across Africa and the diaspora.

Its signature initiatives, including the Made by Design documentary on Netflix, The Made by Design Showcase, and the Design Innovation Exhibition, have reshaped global perceptions of African creativity.

Ogufere said DWL continues to position Lagos as Africa’s creative capital where design drives industry, tourism, and transformation.

According to her, the festival has evolved into a platform where innovation meets opportunity, spotlighting design as both a creative and economic force.

‘Design Week Lagos exists to champion the ingenuity and ambition of Africa’s creative community.

‘Each edition reaffirms our belief that design is a powerful language, one that tells our stories, shapes our economies, and connects Lagos to the global conversation on creativity and innovation,’ Ogufere said.

She said over six days, Lagos will pulse with exhibitions, installations, talks, and creative activations spread across its design districts.

The DWL Founder added that from the Made by Design Show and Design Innovation Exhibition to student showcases, and partner programmes, the festival will engage professionals, students, and the general public.

She further said the programme anchored by the Lagos State government and supported by the Federal Ministry of Tourism underscores the growing momentum of design tourism in West Africa where creative excellence fuels new industries, education, and global visibility.

Giving more details, Ogufere said this year’s programme features over 100 activations, 20,000 visitors, and more than 250 million media impressions, spanning exhibitions, talks, installations, studio tours, and partner events across all 20 local government areas of Lagos State.

It will also feature more than 100 showrooms and partner activations across Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Lekki, and Yaba, including Roots and Resilience (Federal Palace Hotel), Design Intersect 2025 (Soto Gallery), and the launch of the Institute of Professional Interior Designers and Product Inventors (IPIDPI) at Alliance Française.

Among the activities lined up for the week-long programme are Design Innovation Exhibition; Made by Design Show, Nigeria’s largest interiors trade exhibition returns with over 100 premium brands including Woodstyles, Esorae Homes, ACTIU, Mimz Interiors, and IO Furniture, reaffirming Lagos as the continent’s hub for interior innovation.

Others are DWL Talks and Dialogue in Design and Development, a two event of panels and keynotes bringing together architects, developers, manufacturers, and policymakers.

Featured speakers include Bibi Seck, Victoria Adesanmi, Myles Igwebuike, Yew Kee Cheong (President, AIA), and Astrid Hébert (3C Awards).

There is also Student Design Competition, which is organised in partnership with Caverton Marine. This year’s competition challenges young designers to rethink maritime mobility, with renowned designer Kurt Merki Jnr as lead judge.

Also speaking, the General Manager/CEO of Wole Soyinka Centre (formerly National Theatre), Tola Akerele, said DWL gets better each year because it keeps showing Nigerian designers pushing boundaries in terms of the materials they are using.

She commended the organiser for sustaining the platform that showcases Nigerian architects, interior designers and product designers and their products.

The Future Awards Africa, an awards platform celebrating young African excellence, has announced nominees for its 19th edition.

The event: ‘Threads of Legacy,’ honours young changemakers whose work is shaping Africa’s tomorrow.

Nominees represent Africa’s brightest minds and talents – creators, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, advocates, innovators, educators, and leaders breaking boundaries and weaving legacies.

In recognition of the diversity of young African achievement, this year features 25 categories, the most in its history. Arts and Literature have been split into two.

Performing arts has been introduced to celebrate expressions on stage, and Service to Young People (an honorary category) has been added to recognise individuals championing youth causes.

Ayodeji Razaq, awards executive director, said: ‘The story of Africa’s future is written today, thread by thread, through the work of these nominees.

They are artists, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, advocates, and innovators whose achievements inspire and create legacies others can build on. Each name on this list is proof young Africans are not waiting for the future; they are shaping it. This is what the awards celebrate. We spotlight their stories, preserve their contributions as part of Africa’s collective memory, and excited for the mark they will leave on generations to come.’

This year’s list includes Rasheedat Ajibade, Fola David, Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo (Asherkine), Victor Ugo, Poco Lee, Gbubemi Ejeye, Tomike Adeoye, Kelvin Umechukwu, Hauwa Shaffii Nuhu, and Dongio Casil (Djec fashion) from Cameroon, each representing the spirit of youth-led impact.

In Creativity and Innovation are Chiamaka Iwenofu, Umearigolu Casmir Chukwuebuka (Ianumeh), Taiwo Joel, Daniel Obasi (AMAH Studios) and Julie Godwin.

In Photography, there are Ayo Makinwa, Amazing Klef, Emeka Amafor, Thompson Ekong and Chika Onuu.

More categories are Education, Journalism, Content creation, Health and wellness, Community action, Arts, Literature, Activism and advocacy, Fashion and Law.

The list includes Film, Professional service, Entrepreneurship, Technology, Professional arts, Intrapreneurship, On air personality, Agriculture, Governance, Music, Sport, Acting, Service to young people and Young Person of the Year.

The judges will ensure a rigorous and transparent selection that reflects excellence.

It will celebrate innovation, courage, legacy; a reminder the future is here, and African.

Nigerian students, particularly from Yaba College of Technology, are poised for an uplift in global academic career prospects following a high-level pact with French institutions.

The collaboration, driven by a historical relationship, promises to make world-class French higher education more accessible and affordable for Nigerian graduates.

The ‘Study in France Conference’, hosted by the school and featuring a delegation of French universities and specialised institutions, signals a robust expansion of academic and cultural ties.

Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, noted that the conference is a step in strengthening the educational and cultural bridge with France.

He highlighted the institution’s relationship with France, which began over three decades ago with donation of advanced equipment that birthed the Department of Industrial Maintenance Engineering.

‘The conference aligns with our commitment to international collaboration and vision to position the poly as a global competitive, innovation-driven institution,’ Dr. Abdul said.

He outlined the college’s ‘ERECT Agenda’, a framework focusing on empowering staff, repackaging academic programmes, exploring collaborations, consolidating revenue and tapping into grants.

‘This strategy, implemented through key centres like centre for Linkages, Partnerships and International Relations (CLPIR), is to ensure graduates are not only employable but industry-ready.’

The rector underscored areas where the synergy with France is expected to yield benefits.

‘A major focus is leveraging the strength of School of Art, Design and Printinga foremost art school in West Africa.’

Abdul hoped HND graduates in Fine Art, Graphic Design, and Industrial Design can transition into Master’s degree programmes in France.

‘The collaboration is set to establish dual certification programmes and capacity building in technical and vocational education, essential for Nigeria’s industrial growth.

‘Joint research partnerships in sustainability, renewable energy and digital innovation are on the table, offering students and faculty exposure to cutting-edge research.

‘Student and staff exchange programmes and French language training will foster cross-cultural understanding and prepare students for a globalised marketplace.’

The French delegation, comprising representatives from Université de Lille, Kedge Business School and engineering and art schools, explained why Nigerian students should choose France.

Ms. Oumou Diakité, deputy head of Africa Unit on Campus France, said France is seeking to increase its international student numbers, aiming for 500,000 by 2027. She noted that student mobility from Nigeria has seen a 76 per cent increase in the last five years, a trend the France is keen to accelerate.

Diakité detailed the significant financial and academic advantages of the French system, mentioning affordable tuition, English taught programmes and generous government aid.

Lagos State has become the first African government to join Project Management Institute (PMI) Global Executive Council (GEC), following its leadership in governance and infrastructure delivery.

The council unites representatives from top bodies worldwide to collaborate on latest project management practice, craft enriching learning and networking opportunities, and host vibrant events.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced this at a reception in Lagos House, Marina, where the state hosted PMI board, global leadership, and regional team.

It is the first time PMI’s global board convened in Nigeria, underscoring the country’s significance in shaping global project management. Welcoming the 23-member delegation, led by President, Pierre Le Manh, the governor described Lagos’s membership as ‘a defining moment that aligns with our vision to institutionalise project management excellence in government and ensure timely, efficient delivery of infrastructure and social programmes.

‘In 20 years, Lagos will take on the world. But to realise our 30-year development plan and advance T.H.E.M.E.S+ , we need world-class project management talent. This partnership is a declaration of intent and a demonstration of responsibility.’

The governor noted flagship initiatives that embody Lagos’s transformation agenda, from Blue Line Rail, to the Lekki-Epe Expressway, serving Africa’s fastest-growing economic corridor, and the continent’s largest food logistics park, modelled after Paris’s renowned Rungis International Market.

Le Manh underscored Africa’s pivotal moment in global project management, stating: ‘Africa is entering what we call the Golden Age of Project Management – a period when the continent has the resources and ambition to build infrastructure at scale. With its young, dynamic population and bold vision, Lagos has the potential to leapfrog traditional development models. We are honored that Lagos State has chosen PMI as its partner in building this capability.’

The visit coincides with Nigeria’s hosting of the inaugural PMI Africa Week in October 2025, a certification drive designed to address Nigeria’s projected shortfall of up to 211,000 project professionals by 2035. Lagos State’s pledge to certify its public servants stands as a first-of-its-kind, government-led project management certification initiative in Africa, underscoring its commitment to institutional excellence and sustainable capacity building.

‘When Nigeria’s commercial capital throws its full weight behind project management certification, it creates unstoppable momentum. Lagos State is demonstrating that professional project management is not optional for development; it is essential infrastructure, as vital as roads or power grids,’ PMI Sub-Saharan Africa Managing Director, George Asamani, said.

At the reception, presentations showcased the state’s unprecedented infrastructure pipeline, including more than $122 billion in energy investments projected through 2045 and multiple rail lines currently under construction. Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), reported that the Blue Line Rail now operates 90 daily trips with zero accidents since inception, transporting over 60,000 passengers each day, a testament to the state’s commitment to safe, efficient, and sustainable urban mobility.

‘Project management professionals are nation-builders, as vital to our progress as doctors, lawyers, and public servants. ‘In a world where delivery defines success, investing in project talent is one of the most strategic choices any government can make.’ Mr Governor, who accepted the designation of PMI Africa Week Champion for Nigeria, said.

The reception, attended by commissioners, permanent secretaries, and heads of agencies, concluded with vibrant cultural performances celebrating Lagos’s status as Africa’s entertainment capital. The PMI delegation, comprising 12 board directors from across the globe, concluded its visit to Lagos following a series of high-level engagements. However, PMI Africa Week activities, including the ongoing certification drive, continue through the end of October, underscoring Lagos’s growing role as a hub for global collaboration in project leadership and innovation.

Creative entrepreneur and CEO, NOW Music, Efe Omorogbe has exhibited his skill in the motion picture industry with a moving advocacy movie documentary of the story of the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa entitled ‘Adda: Empowered by Education.’

Held at the Pop Central Culture Centre, Lekki, the well-attended soiree tagged; ‘Educate To Empower (E2E)’ witnessed the interesting story of the celebrated jurist who rose through the ranks to become the first female of Court of Appeal aside her personal life of integrity, motherhood and professionalism. Testimonials were given by her colleagues, husband, children and associates.

The occasion which was in commemoration of the International Day of the Girlchild also had the launch of E2E Scholarship Trust.

In her keynote address, Dr (Mrs) Aisha Mohammed Oyebode told the story as the odd was stacked against her but for determination of her late father who died when she was 12 years and the resilience of her mother who sent her to England when suitors started coming for her at a young age, the story would have been different. She also talked about her father’s sister who was married off at a tender age but also overcame her challenges to become a celebrated author for her keynote speech.

‘Odd stacked against her. When my father died. My father’s family was very traditional. They could not envision that a girl should go to school. But my father was determined. At the age of 12, my father died. They sent me to England because suitors started coming,’ she said.

Co-founder, Pop Central Culture Centre, Bola Yinka -Obebe anchored a panel discussion with panelists such as Miss Oluwatomisin Adebukola Bankole, Betty Abah, Lucy Ameh, Theo Ukpaa and Solomon Okonkwo.

Founder/CEO, Buckwyld Media Network and initiator, E2E, Omorogbe who hinted that the documentary was made in 2020 said: ‘We made this film to tell the story of a high achiever, a great women. The most fascinating thing is all of this beautiful story could have been a totally different scenario. When she was married off with cousins of her age, had she not returned to school, the story would have been different.

‘We used the power of story-telling to affect people’s choices positively. We are grateful for the support of partners and friends who came through for us. Together we launched the E2E Scholarship Trust, a bold step to ensuring that every girl, no matter her circumstance, has the opportunity to learn, lead and transform her community. With your continued support, we are confident that one empowered girl will indeed spark a million dreams.’

The documentary which was shown to approximately 50 million Nigerians on different television platforms was in partnership with Pop Central TV and Hope for the Masses Foundation.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) handled over 8,000 cases of abuse in 2024, its Executive Secretary, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, said yesterday.

Mrs. Vivour-Adeniyi announced this at a training the agency organised for Customary Court presidents in partnership with the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) on how to effectively respond to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

The training, which held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa, Ikeja, brought together presidents and members of customary courts across Lagos.

It was meant to strengthen grassroots justice delivery and improve the handling of SGBV-related cases.

Mrs. Vivour-Adeniyi praised the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) for collaborating with the agency in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence.

The executive secretary emphasised the crucial role of customary courts as the first point of access to justice for many Lagos residents.

‘This engagement is not just another event on our calendar; it is a critical step in our collective mission to strengthen justice delivery, protect the vulnerable, and reaffirm the dignity of every citizen in Lagos State,’ she said.

Mrs. Vivour-Adeniyi recalled that the cases on the 2024 figure ranged from intimate partner violence and defilement to emotional and economic abuse.

Behind each statistic, the executive secretary said, ‘is a human story a survivor seeking safety, a child struggling to trust again, or a person seeking help to change their behavior’.

She urged customary court presidents to handle cases with empathy and sensitivity, stressing that justice often begins at the grassroots.

‘It begins when a survivor walks into a customary court and is met with empathy instead of judgment, timely adjudication instead of delay, and fairness instead of fear,’ Mrs. Vivour-Adeniyi said.

She stated that under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, Lagos State has continued to demonstrate a strong political will to end gender-based violence through the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.

According to her, the partnerships among DSVA, the judiciary, the police, and the civil society have improved access to justice for survivors.

The executive secretary urged participants to see their role as transformational, not just judicial, and to use their positions to promote zero tolerance for sexual and gender-based violence in their communities.

A key facilitator at the training and a sexual and gender-based violence expert, Mrs. Juliet Olumuyiwa, delivered a lecture on the topic: Understanding the Role of Customary Courts in Responding to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Cases.

Addressing reporters, Mrs. Olumuyiwa explained that although customary courts do not directly adjudicate on SGBV cases, they often encounter such issues in matters like dissolution of marriage.

‘Their role is primarily referral. They can identify cases of gender-based violence, counsel survivors, and refer such cases to the DSVA for further management,’ she said.

The counselor emphasised the importance of believing survivors, avoiding discrimination or victim-blaming, and ensuring prompt referrals for medical, psychosocial, and legal support.

Mrs. Olumuyiwa also called for continuous advocacy and stronger laws to ensure offenders are held accountable.

‘If they do the crime, they should do the time. We must not encourage impunity. Supporting survivors and prosecuting offenders will help reduce the prevalence of abuse,’ she added.

The rise of multi-receptor agonists in metabolic research has sparked a new era of peptide-based therapies targeting obesity, diabetes, and related metabolic disorders. Among these breakthroughs, two names stand out for their remarkable impact and potential: Retatrutide and Tirzepatide. These peptides have shown extraordinary effects on glucose regulation, fat metabolism, and body composition-making them key players in the next generation of weight management and diabetes treatments.

This article explores both compounds in depth, comparing their mechanisms, benefits, side effects, and future potential in human metabolic health.

Both Retatrutide and Tirzepatide belong to a class of peptides designed to act on incretin hormone receptors. Incretins are naturally occurring gut hormones that regulate insulin secretion, appetite, and energy expenditure. The two main incretins are GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) and GIP (Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide). These hormones help control blood sugar after eating and influence how the body stores and burns fat.

Tirzepatide, marketed under the brand name Mounjaro, is known as a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. This means it mimics both incretin hormones to enhance insulin release, suppress appetite, and promote fat loss. Retatrutide, however, takes things a step further. It is a triple agonist-targeting GLP-1, GIP, and Glucagon receptors (GCGR). This additional mechanism amplifies energy expenditure and fat oxidation, offering potentially greater results in weight loss and metabolic control.

Tirzepatide works by activating two key incretin receptors. The GLP-1 pathway slows gastric emptying, reduces hunger, and stimulates insulin secretion in response to glucose. Meanwhile, the GIP pathway improves insulin sensitivity and complements the effects of GLP-1. By targeting both, Tirzepatide achieves synergistic effects that lead to significant reductions in both blood glucose levels and body weight.

Clinical studies have shown that participants using Tirzepatide experienced up to 22% body weight reduction over 72 weeks, along with notable improvements in HbA1c and lipid profiles. This dual approach makes Tirzepatide not only effective for managing Type 2 diabetes but also for obesity treatment.

Retatrutide introduces the glucagon receptor into the equation. While glucagon is typically associated with raising blood sugar, its controlled activation increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation. When combined with GLP-1 and GIP activation, this creates a powerful metabolic boost-burning fat while improving insulin sensitivity.

Early trials of Retatrutide have shown unprecedented fat loss, with participants losing up to 25% of their body weight-a result that surpasses most other peptides currently available. It represents a new generation of metabolic modulation, where instead of just suppressing appetite, the body’s entire energy balance system is reprogrammed to function more efficiently.

Both peptides have demonstrated impressive outcomes in clinical research.

Tirzepatide has already made headlines for its exceptional weight-loss efficacy, rivaling even bariatric surgery in some cases. However, Retatrutide’s results appear to go even further, thanks to the inclusion of glucagon receptor activation, which boosts thermogenesis and fat oxidation.

Both peptides improve glycemic control by enhancing insulin secretion and reducing hepatic glucose production. Retatrutide’s added glucagon receptor activity may seem counterintuitive, but it leads to better glucose balance when combined with the other pathways.

Studies have shown reductions in blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and inflammation markers in participants using either peptide. These effects are particularly valuable for patients with metabolic syndrome or obesity-related cardiovascular risk factors.

Beyond the metabolic numbers, both compounds significantly reduce appetite and food cravings. Users often report feeling full with smaller meals and experiencing steady energy levels throughout the day-key elements in sustaining long-term weight loss.

While these peptides are generally well-tolerated, side effects can occur-especially during the initial adjustment phase. The most common include:

Nausea and Vomiting: Often related to slower gastric emptying.

Mild Diarrhea or Constipation: The body adapting to new digestive rhythms.

Fatigue: Usually temporary as glucose metabolism stabilizes.

More severe effects are rare but can include gallbladder issues or pancreatitis, which are risks seen in other GLP-1-based therapies as well. Proper dosing and medical supervision are crucial to minimize these risks.

The future of metabolic health lies in combination therapies that go beyond simple calorie restriction or single-hormone activation. Both of these peptides which you can get from paradigm peptides represent a turning point in how obesity and diabetes are treated-targeting multiple biological pathways simultaneously to deliver results once thought impossible.

Retatrutide, in particular, has the potential to redefine obesity treatment, potentially replacing or complementing current options like semaglutide or Tirzepatide. Its triple agonist design marks a significant leap forward, indicating that future research will likely explore even more complex receptor interactions for enhanced results.

Moreover, these peptides may soon find applications beyond obesity and diabetes. Early studies suggest potential benefits for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and metabolic inflammation, given their impact on lipid metabolism and insulin resistance.

The success of these two peptides demonstrates the growing importance of peptide-based medicine. Unlike traditional small-molecule drugs, peptides can precisely mimic natural hormones with fewer side effects. This precision targeting makes them ideal for long-term metabolic modulation.

As peptide synthesis and delivery technologies continue to advance, we can expect new variations designed to improve bioavailability, reduce injection frequency, and fine-tune receptor selectivity. This will open the door to more personalized treatments based on an individual’s metabolic profile.

The development of Retatrutide and Tirzepatide represents one of the most exciting advances in modern metabolic science. Both peptides have shown the ability to dramatically improve glucose control, promote fat loss, and enhance overall metabolic health.

While Tirzepatide has already transformed diabetes care, Retatrutide stands poised to take metabolic therapy even further with its triple agonist design. These breakthroughs highlight the potential of peptide therapies not just as medications, but as tools to reprogram the body’s natural systems for optimal energy balance and health.

As clinical research continues, both compounds will likely play central roles in shaping the future of obesity and diabetes management-offering new hope to millions seeking effective, sustainable metabolic solutions.

The detained self acclaimed leader of the proscribed separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu failed to open his defence on Friday in his ongoing terrorism trial before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

Kanu said he could not open his defence because he has not been handed the case file to familiarise himself with its contents to enable him adequately prepare for his defence.

Following his inability to commence his defence on Thursday after he fired his team of lawyers led by former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Kanu Agabi, Kanu prayed the court to grant him a short adjournment till the next day.

When the case was called on Friday, the prosecuting lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) told the court that the case was scheduled for the defendant (Kanu) to open his defence.

When it was his turn to speak, Kanu said he would be representing himself.

He then told the court that he would not be able to open his defence because he has not been able to access the case file.

Kanu said those who were to bring the case file to him in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), where he is being held.could.not get to him.

He prayed the court for an adjournment till Monday, October 27 to enable access the case file and familiarise himself with its contents.

Kanu told the court that he was expecting witnesses from all over the world, including the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Kenya and Ethiopia and applied for an order that the DSS should allow him access to people even on Saturday and Sunday for the purpose of preparing for his defence.

Awomolo did not object, following which Justice Omotosho ordered the DSS to allow him to receive visitors in Saturday and Sunday.

He then adjourned till October 27 for the defendant to open his defence, warning that the six days granted Kanu to conduct his defence, which began on October 23, will not be extended.

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has called on residents to take ownership of road infrastructure within their communities, noting that protecting and maintaining the roads are key to ensuring their longevity.

He spoke yesterday in Ado-Ekiti while inaugurating the newly completed Bovas-Spotless Road and Palace-Okeage-Idolofin Road, as part of activities marking the third anniversary of his administration.

Governor Oyebanji, represented by his wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, said his administration remained committed to delivering infrastructure across the state to improve living standard of the people.

He said the sustainability of the projects depended on the collective responsibility of the citizens.

The governor urged the people not to engage in acts capable of damaging the roads such as indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the drainage, unauthorised excavation along road shoulders, among others.

He said: ‘Let me urge all road users and residents to maintain and work together to preserve this road. It is an investment in our collective future and we all have a role to play in maintaining it.”

Affirming that his administration placed high premium on good road network, Governor Oyebanji said roads were not just pathway for vehicles, but were also lifeline that connected communities, promoted trade, improved security and contributed to the overall quality of the people.

He added that the Palace-Oke-Age-Idolofin and Bovas-Spotless township roads would ease traffic congestion, reduce travel time and open new vista of economic opportunities for the residents and business in the area.

‘Let me assure you again that we will not rest on our oars in bringing the dividends of democracy to all the citizens of Ekiti State. I also seek your cooperation, bearing it in mind that the development of our state is our collective responsibility,’ the governor said.

Works Commissioner Mr Sola Adebayo said the project represented a milestone in the government’s efforts to enhance the accessibility and aesthetics of Ekiti State, adding that the event stood as another testament to the commitment of Governor Oyebanji to the progress and infrastructural transformation of the state capital.

He said the road projects embarked on by the administration were in deplorable state for years before the government embarked on their rehabilitation or reconstruction.

He added that the kind of road network Governor Oyebanji envisaged for the state capital was one capable of easing traffic flow, enhancing accessibility and improving the general quality of life for residents and communities.

Expressing appreciation to Governor Oyebanji on his giant strides in repositioning road infrastructure in the state, the commissioner said the completion of the roads underscored his dedication to improving road connectivity and promoting economic activities within the communities.

He urged the residents to take ownership of the road as well as ensure its proper maintenance by desisting from acts that would shorten its lifespan, such as dumping refuse in the drainage or constructing unauthorised speed bumps, as the sustainability and durability of the roads remained the collective responsibility of all and sundry.

Also at the event were Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Habitat Adubiaro, Head of Service Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff Niyi Adebayo, members of the House of Assembly, members of the state executive council, among others.

‘God asked me to be a bridge among different denominations,’ Rev. Uma Ukpai recalled in an interview, explaining why he named his ministry Uma Ukpai Evangelical Association (UUEA) and adding that it ‘is not a church.’

He shed further light on his role: ‘To show the world that we are not part of the competition of establishing churches, we had to bear the name. we are there to bring about revival to Christendom and to build bridges amongst different churches. that is why we could give birth to Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) – the coming together of different churches. God asked us to do that in order to bring about unity in the body of Christ.’

Apart from being a key figure in the formation of PFN and a unifying presence, he was an example of progressive priesthood, recognising the importance of secular interventions alongside spiritual mediations. For instance, his ministry complemented its mega crusades and miracles with social services, particularly related to health and education.

He elaborated the philosophy behind this approach, saying, ‘I think it is not enough to preach the gospel; we need to give social services to people who may not understand what preaching is all about.’

Challenges he experienced in his early life shaped his passion for poverty alleviation. His father died when he was 10. ‘I know what it means to lose a father and be a father from that age. I know what it is to save money to pay school fees. So, I have feelings for the poor,’ he said.

Ukpai died on October 6, aged 80. He ‘met Christ’ in 1958 as a member of the Assemblies of God Church. He was from Ohafia in present-day Abia State but established his ministry in Uyo in present-day Akwa-Ibom State.

He notably held crusades across Nigeria, including the yearly Greater Ohafia for Christ Crusade, Anioma One-million-man Crusade (2016), Nsukka (2012), Greater Ibadan for Christ (1982), and Greater Lagos for Christ (1985), which led to the founding of PFN. He was also recognised as an international evangelist.

Among his memorable moments as a minister, he listed his participation in the ‘Full Gospel International Business Men Convention where I was the first African to speak for four days’ and requests he received ‘to relocate to the United States of America but I didn’t go.’

He made an impact in health as chairman of Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, and King of Kings Hospital, a specialist hospital in Abia State for communities in Abia, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.

His activities were no less impactful in education as the proprietor of Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies, Uyo, Uma Ukpai Polytechnic Asaga, Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation, and Joseph Business School, affiliate of Joseph Business School Chicago, USA.

After completing his secondary education in Nigeria, he studied at the School of Journalism and Television, Frisham, Hermitage, United Kingdom; South Florida Christian College Miami, Florida, USA; Carolina Christian University and Burke Bible College, Kentucky, USA. He held a certificate in Electrical Engineering Practice, a diploma in Journalism, a bachelor’s, and a doctorate in Divinity.

When Evangel University Akaeze, Ebonyi State, gave him an honorary degree of Doctor of Science (D.Sc.), in 2016, he described the award as ‘a very pleasant surprise.’ He added: ‘this is the first time I am getting a doctorate award from an academic institution. It will increase the driving force in my life to be the best a man can possibly be and to be a mentor and model to the younger generation.’

Indeed, he lived above controversy and scandal. His influential ministry is a testimony to his life of purpose.