Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The Special Adviser to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Mr Sola Giwa, says the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will provide 24/7 support on major corridors during the Ember months.

Giwa disclosed this at LASTMA Ember Months Stakeholders Forum held on Tuesday in Lagos.

The forum had the theme:, ‘Safer Roads, Safe Lives. LASTMA Cares.

Giwa noted that the Night Rapid Response Gang of LASTMA were inaugurated with the task to respond swiftly to breakdowns, crashes, and obstructions ensuring minimal disruption to traffic flow.

‘We have made provisions that from Oct. 23, LASTMA will be doing 24-hour traffic operations for all our roads, especially those areas that will have high flux of people due to end of the year traffic.

‘This is not the first time we are doing this, we did it last year in December but this year, as a proactive government we are starting early in October to run till January,’ he said.

He said for 2025 Ember months, LASTMA would adopt other multi-layered operational plans to ensure safe mobility across all five divisions across Lagos.

Giwa expressed plans to include advocacy and public sensitisation, input enforcement which had to do with compliance enforcement, e-enforcement, enhanced field deployment, and inter-agency collaboration.

He said the flag off of another Ember Month campaign reaffirmed the shared commitment to a safer, saner, and smarter Lagos.

‘Every resident deserves a city where movement is safe, predictable, and efficient,’ he said.

Giwa said data showed that by managing congestion and preventing gridlock, a single LASTMA officer helped to save an average of ?85 million in man-hour losses annually.

‘When multiplied by our total strength, this translates to over ?430 billion in economic value every year, a contribution that directly supports Lagos’ Gross Domestic Product of about ?41 trillion and sustains productivity across commerce, logistics, and mobility.

‘Our officers are not just traffic managers; they are economic stabilisers, frontline ambassadors of order, and protectors of human lives,’ he said.

Also speaking, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the authority was well prepared for the 24-hour operations.

‘It is not a new thing for us, we did it last year but we want to start in October. We should be able to do the needful because all arrangements are in place.

‘We have deployed enough personnel and our recovery vehicles to ensure we respond to any emergency on the road,’ he said.

Bakare-Oki said they would also embark on advocacy programmes and are available on all social media handles to sensitise Lagos residents.

‘Today, we saw children from both government and private schools display for us.

‘This is a good mechanism to reach out to their parents and this will equally prepare them for the future for them to respect traffic rules and regulations,’ he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that stakeholders present at the forum include the Nigerian Army, Police, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, the National Union of Road Transport Workers, schoolchildren and others.

The event equally witnessed drama presentation by secondary schoolchildren from Lagos State Educational District.

First Bank’s sponsored Python Amateur Golf Open Championship has attracted 300 players from within and outside the country to Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Speaking at the Port Harcourt Golf Course, the Chief Executive Officer of First Bank Group, Olusegun Alebiosu, said the bank would also host the 65th edition of its Lagos Open Golf Tournament on 20th November.

He underscored the bank’s commitment to supporting sports development in the country emphasising the importance of sports in nation-building and societal development.

Alebiosu said apart from golf, the bank was also sponsoring other sporting events such as football, basketball, tennis and polo.

He said: ‘Golf is not about being rich. I started playing golf when I was a nobody. The basic thing is buying the club, and some of us started with second-hand clubs.

‘It’s about sport and golf. At First Bank, we support sports across the country. Today is about golf, next week Sunday it will be about polo in Kaduna . We have been doing that for over a century.

‘In November we are going to see golf in Lagos specifically that is about on the 20th November where we are doing the 65th edition of our golf tournament in Lagos. It is called Lagos Open, players come all over the world to come and play in Lagos Open’.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Dr Raphael Onoshakpo, said the Port Harcourt Open was a seven-day competition produced winners, who received various gifts.

Onoshakpo attributed the growing interest in golf to the lockdown period, saying it saw a surge in people taking up the sport.

He noted that the Python Golf Club had become a major hub for golfing, with a full training facility that had churned out over 200 new golfers in the past.

With the approval, the State now boasts eight Federal and State-owned universities, bringing the total number of state universities across the country to 70.

Governor Hope Uzodimma received the letter of approval from the NUC Executive Secretary, Abdullahi Ribadu at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

Ribadu commended the State Government for its vision and urged the university to uphold high academic standards and a vibrant research culture.

The Executive Secretary said: ‘The university should be built on standards – with quality research, the expansion of knowledge, and active engagement with industry and society.’

He stressed the new institution must remain student-focused and offer innovative programmes designed to produce graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to their communities and workplaces.

According to the NUC, the recognition takes effect immediately, enabling the university to begin full academic activities once its administrative and academic systems are in place.

Uzodimma described the recognition as a significant stride in his administration’s efforts to widen access to quality education and empower young Nigerians with digital, innovative, and entrepreneurial skills.

He explained that the university was conceived to serve as a centre for innovation and job creation, with plans for collaboration and mentorship involving the University of California, Berkeley.

Coach Ladan Bosso has expressed confidence in Barau FC’s readiness as they prepare to face Abia Warriors in Umuahia on Matchday 10 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Bosso said his players have shown renewed determination following their impressive 2-1 comeback victory over Kano Pillars in Kano last weekend – a win that boosted morale in the Barau FC camp.

‘The spirit in the team is very high after the win against Pillars. The players are beginning to understand our philosophy better, and that gives me confidence going into the game in Umuahia,’ Bosso stated.

Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, the experienced tactician acknowledged the familiarity he has with the opposition, having previously managed the Umuahia-based side.

‘Abia is my second home; I coached Abia Warriors for two seasons, so I know the environment very well,’ Bosso said with a smile. ‘But this time, I’m coming as an opponent, and we’ll approach the game with focus and respect. I won’t reveal our strategy, but we have our plans.’

Bosso praised his players for their discipline and commitment in recent weeks, noting that the team’s turnaround was a result of hard work and belief.

‘My players have been disciplined, and they are willing to give their all. We’re gradually finding our rhythm, and I believe if we stay consistent, we can move up the table,’ he added.

The coach also appreciated the motivation provided by club owner Senator Barau Jibrin, whose encouragement and financial incentives have lifted the squad’s morale.

‘The Senator has been supportive. His message and motivation after the Pillars game inspired the players a lot,’ Bosso revealed.

As Barau FC head to Umuahia, Bosso maintained a balanced outlook-confident in his team’s potential but aware of the challenges ahead.

‘It won’t be an easy match, but with the confidence and unity in the squad, we believe we can get a positive result,’ he concluded.

A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Ekiti State, Otunba Olugbenga Peter Obafemi, has pledged to reposition the State for accelerated development, economic growth and regional collaboration if elected governor in the June 20, 2026 governorship election.

Speaking during an engagement with key stakeholders in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti state capital, Obafemi said the future of Ekiti lies in pragmatic leadership, strategic partnerships, and people-centered governance.

The PDP chieftain promised to deploy his vast experience as a successful businessman and aviation expert to transform the state from a dependent economy to a self-sustaining and productive one.

According to him, Ekiti is naturally endowed with rich agricultural potential that has remained untapped. He said his administration would maximize this advantage to banish hunger, reduce poverty, and create wealth for the people.

‘Development cannot thrive in isolation. Ekiti must work hand in hand with neighboring states to create economic corridors that will expand trade, improve infrastructure, and strengthen our shared prosperity,’ Obafemi stated.

He assured his government would work closely with other Southwest governors through the DAWN Commission and the newly established Southwest Development Commission to harness regional opportunities.

He added that Ekiti state would also build partnerships through the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to accelerate progress and shared growth, adding that he would leverage his wide connections to attract investors as well as stimulate industrialization.

‘The priority of my administration will be to create an enabling environment for private investments to thrive. We will focus on establishing small and medium-scale industries that will drive employment and empower our people,’ he said.

Obafemi also pledged to transform the Ekiti Knowledge Zone into a fully functional innovation hub that attracts global investment and nurtures homegrown talent.

According to him, the Knowledge Zone will no longer remain a concept on paper but will become a living reality that redefines Ekiti’s economy through research, technology, and industrial development.

Highlighting his vision for tourism, the governorship hopeful said that his administration would harness the state’s natural beauty, culture, and heritage sites to position Ekiti as a major tourism destination in Nigeria.

He noted that tourism has the potential to boost internally generated revenue and open up new opportunities for local communities.

‘Our goal is to make Ekiti not just a land of honor but a land of enterprise and opportunity – a place where ideas meet action and people truly thrive,’ he emphasized.

Describing himself as a man of integrity, discipline, and vision, Obafemi said he is prepared to serve with transparency and accountability for collective the progress of the state

‘I am a responsible, hardworking, and reliable administrator with no blemish. I will ensure that every kobo of Ekiti’s resources is used for the good of our people,’ he affirmed.

The PDP chieftain further assured that his administration would promote peace, unity, and security, noting that meaningful development is only possible in an atmosphere of stability.

‘I am a man of peace and a lover of peace. I will be a governor and father to all, irrespective of political affiliation. My administration will place high premium on security to ensure that our people live and work in peace,’ he said.

In recent times, Nigeria has witnessed a concerning trend where shadowy groups engage in acts of mob rule and professional blackmail, threatening the very fabric of governance and societal stability.

This short piece delves into the potential dangers of succumbing to such a regime, particularly in the context of the baseless calls for the resignation of the hardworking Minister of Interior, Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, over unfounded allegations of certificate forgery.

As we examine this situation, it becomes evident that not only must we recognise the sterling achievements of the Minister since his assumption of office, but we must also understand the broader implications of allowing such destructive forces to operate unchecked in our nation.

Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has emerged as a beacon of hope and transformative leadership within the Nigerian government.

Since taking office, he has showcased an unwavering commitment to public service, demonstrating an impressive track record of accomplishments that have positively impacted various sectors.

His initiatives have not only enhanced the integrity and efficiency of the Ministry of Interior but have also fostered a sense of security and trust among the citizenry.

By implementing reforms that streamline processes, promote transparency, and encourage community engagement, he has set a precedent for what effective governance should entail.

However, the recent calls for his resignation, fueled by unfounded accusations, serve as a stark reminder of the perils posed by mob mentality and professional blackmailers.

These shadowy groups, often operating in the dark, seek to undermine legitimate leadership through intimidation and misinformation.

Such actions not only threaten individual leaders but also have far-reaching consequences for national security and social cohesion.

The potential for these groups to gain traction is alarming, as they may sow discord among the populace, fostering an environment where fear and distrust overshadow constructive dialogue and progress.

The act of targeting individuals like Hon. Dr. Tunji-Ojo, who are dedicated to public service, is a significant deviation from the principles of democracy and accountability.

It represents a dangerous precedent where the integrity of leadership is compromised by baseless claims and the whims of faceless actors.

Allowing these professional blackmailers to dictate the narrative could lead to a culture of fear within the government, where appointed or elected officials are more concerned about protecting their positions than serving the needs of the citizens.

This shift could stifle innovation, impede progress, and ultimately hinder Nigeria’s development trajectory.

Moreover, the impact of a mob regime extends beyond the political sphere; it threatens the very essence of national identity and unity.

When individuals are targeted and vilified without just cause, it fractures societal bonds and diminishes the collective spirit that is essential for national progress.

Nigerians must recognise the importance of standing against such malign influences, advocating for a culture that values integrity, accountability, and constructive criticism rather than mob justice and unfounded allegations.

Preventing the rise of mob rule and professional blackmailers demands a concerted effort from all stakeholders in the Nigerian society.

It is imperative for citizens, civil society organisations, and government institutions to unite in promoting a culture of dialogue and respect for the rule of law.

This involves holding individuals accountable for their actions while simultaneously protecting the rights of those who serve in leadership positions.

The call for Hon. Dr. Tunji-Ojo to resign should be met with a collective outcry against the misuse of power by those who seek to undermine democracy for personal gain.

In conclusion, the dangers of Nigeria succumbing to a mob regime and professional blackmailers are profound and far-reaching.

The baseless calls for the resignation of Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo highlight the need for vigilance in protecting the integrity of our leaders and the progress they strive to achieve.

As a nation, we must rally against these forces that threaten our stability and unity, ensuring that we uphold the principles of justice and accountability.

It is time to reject the tactics of fear and intimidation, fostering an environment where leaders can continue their important work without distraction, ultimately paving the way for a brighter future for all Nigerians.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has commended the Borno State Government on the high level of compliance recorded during the ongoing Measles and Rubella vaccination campaign.

Senior Program Manager with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Dr Shina Aladeshawe, made the commendation during a visit to some vaccination centres in Maiduguri.

According to Aladeshawe, the integrated approach adopted by the State Government in running the campaign has proven to be efficient and cost-effective.

‘I think the idea to run an integrated campaign is an excellent one. Integration allows for efficiency and maximizes resources,’ he said.

The foundation representative also commended the State Government, led by Governor Babagana Zulum and his wife, for their commitment to improving the health of citizens, particularly children.

Aladeshawe noted that while there were some gaps in data management and vaccine administration, these issues were being addressed by supervisors.

He expressed joy at seeing mothers and children accessing various vaccines, including measles, rubella, and polio, in the same location.

‘The joy on the faces of the people doing this work, the joy on the mothers’ faces, despite some challenges, is a testament to the success of this campaign,’ he said.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation representative urged parents to take advantage of the free vaccines, emphasizing that they are safe and effective.

‘Vaccines are the cheapest, safest, and for the most part, free for everybody. It’s exciting when people are coming with their kids, knowing that they’re protecting the population and the community against some of these killer diseases,’ he said.

Aladeshawe commended the media for their role in disseminating information about the campaign and thanked the state government, Governor Zulum, and his wife, as well as all partners and stakeholders, for making the campaign a success.

Media personality Enioluwa Adeoluwa has penned an emotional tribute to his mother, Dr. Bola Adeoluwa, who recently earned her PhD.

In a post on Instagram, Enioluwa lauded his mother as the ‘quiet force’ behind his family’s success, often overshadowed by his father’s prominence as a professor but equally instrumental in shaping their values.

Enioluwa highlighted his mother’s lesser-known contributions, noting her steadfast presence at debates, quizzes, and prize-giving days, instilling resilience, perseverance, and strength in her children.

‘When it comes to academics, everyone always talks about my dad, and rightly so, he’s a Professor.

‘But my mum? She’s not often remembered in that same light. It’s always been business for her. Yet what most people don’t know is that she’s always been the quiet force behind the scenes, the one who sat through our debates, cheered at every quiz, and showed up for every prize-giving day.

‘While she may not have been the one people associated with academics, she taught us something even more powerful: the everyday skills that shape a person; resilience, perseverance, and strength,’ he wrote.

He revealed her extraordinary academic path, which includes two first degrees, two master’s degrees, a postgraduate diploma, and now a PhD.

At 45, he said she retook the WAEC exam to fulfill a mathematics requirement and pursued another degree to achieve her doctoral dream.

‘And today, she’s done it again. She becomes Dr. Bola Adeoluwa. Now standing tall with two first degrees, two master’s, a PGD, and a PhD.

‘What inspires me most is her journey, she went back to write WAEC again because she needed Mathematics, and at 45, she enrolled for another First Degree just to make her dream possible,’ he added.

Describing her as his ‘biggest inspiration,’ Enioluwa celebrated Dr. Bola Adeoluwa as a mother, mentor, and trailblazer.

‘That’s resilience. That’s strength. That’s the unwavering backbone she’s always been, even in the quiet moments when no one was watching, she showed up for herself.

‘She’s my biggest inspiration. Join me in celebrating Dr. (Mrs.) B.M. Adeoluwa. An incredible mother, mentor, and trailblazer’, he concluded.

In a landmark show of corporate support for women’s sport, Chappal Energies has announced its sponsorship of Nigeria’s Women’s Rugby League Team, the Green Falcons, as they depart for Canada to compete in the 2025 Women’s Rugby League World Series.

A tournament that could see them make history as the first African nation to qualify for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup.

The global series, which features Nigeria, Canada, Ireland, and Fiji, will determine the final slot for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup in Australia and Papua New Guinea. For Nigeria, participation in the event represents not only a sporting milestone but also a powerful statement about the rise of African women in global athletics.

Speaking during the announcement in Lagos, Ufoma Immanuel, Managing Director of Chappal Energies, said the company’s support aligns with its values of opportunity, perseverance, and empowerment.

‘Supporting the Green Falcons goes to the heart of what we stand for at Chappal Energies. Belief, perseverance and possibility are qualities we hold dear,’ Immanuel said. ‘Our Falcons represent the resilience, courage, and ambition that drive progress in our communities and our country. We are proud to stand with them as they make history for Nigeria and for Africa.’

Comprising mainly of amateur athletes from humble backgrounds, the Green Falcons’ rise has been fuelled by determination and sacrifice. Many of the players have balanced work, education, and family responsibilities while training to represent Nigeria at the highest level.

Abiodun Cole, Chairman of the Nigerian Rugby League, the journey to Canada marks a defining moment in the country’s sporting history.

‘This moment means everything to us. We carry the hopes of a nation, of every girl who has ever been told she couldn’t,’ Cole further said-‘Chappal’s support reminds us that we are not alone, and that Nigeria believes in us.’

The Falcons will open their campaign Today, October 21, in Canada, where they will compete for a place in the expanded 2026 World Cup. A successful qualification would not only cement Nigeria’s place on the world stage but also mark a breakthrough for women’s rugby in Africa

The Lagos State government, with support from the French Development Agency (AFD), European Union (EU), and European Investment Bank (EIB), at the weekend, redefined ferry transport with the launch of the Omi Eko Project-an ambitious initiative designed to restructure, upscale, and modernize the city’s waterways sector.

This transformative project will establish an organized, efficient, and affordable ferry system that enhances connectivity and improves the daily lives of residents in Lagos.

Implemented by the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), the project is supported technically and financially by a consortium of European partners led by the AFD with a loan of 130 million euros, and jointly funded by EIB with a loan of 170 million euros, and the EU with a grant of 60 million euros.

Omi Eko stands as a testament to the strong partnership between Lagos and Europe and complements AFD’s ongoing cooperation with LAMATA on sustainable land-based urban mobility.

Speaking at the launch, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said: ‘This project is not merely about infrastructure; it is about the transformation of lives, of livelihoods, and of Lagos itself. It speaks to who we are as a people, bold in ambition, relentless in innovation, and united by a shared determination to build a Lagos that works for all.’

The Omi Eko Project will introduce 15 structured ferry routes, spanning 140 kilometers and linking 25 upgraded and expanded ferry terminals across the city. As part of the initiative, 75 state-of-the-art electric vessels-each capable of carrying up to 440 passengers-will be procured. These vessels will significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions while drastically reducing air and water pollution.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister of France for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Jean-Noël Barrot, said: ‘Through Omi Eko, Nigeria, with the support of France and the EU, is leading the way in putting innovative and sustainable mobility at the service of people’s needs, at the heart of Lagos, Africa’s largest city.’

Corroborating the earlier statement from Mr. Barrot, the Ambassador of the EU in Nigeria, Mr. Gautier Mignot, said: ‘Nigeria and Lagos are spearheading the execution of Global Gateway projects, showing the way as to the level of ambition which can be achieved both in terms of size and sustainability. As the Lagos Abidjan corridor remains a key area for Global Gateway intervention, we look forward to expanding sustainable connectivity in the ECOWAS region and beyond.’

This marks a true transformation in urban mobility for Lagos. The existing water transport system will be entirely modernized-replacing the current fleet of small, noisy, and irregular boats with safe, comfortable, and environmentally friendly ferries operating on a fixed and reliable timetable.

Also speaking, EIB Regional Director, Roger Stuart said: ‘The EIB is extremely pleased to support such an impactful project for the 23 million citizens of Lagos, by reinforcing mobility and connectivity while at the same time reducing the city’s air and water pollution. This innovative and ambitious project reflects a concrete demonstration of the EIB’s commitment to the Global Gateway strategy in West Africa.

‘Safety is at the core of the new system, which will be fully integrated with the existing public transport network managed by LAMATA. Commuters will enjoy seamless ticketing through the Cowry Card, and convenient connections between modes-including Metro, BRT, and last-mile buses.’

A flagship component of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda, Omi Eko aims to increase the share of water transport from one per cent to five per cent of daily mobility in Lagos, while saving commuters up to two hours per day on major routes. The resulting reduction in road congestion will enhance mobility, productivity, and overall quality of life-unlocking new social and economic opportunities across the State.

As implementation progresses, residents will soon witness construction and rehabilitation works across the city-laying the foundation for a cleaner, safer, and more efficient transport system. Omi Eko will not only reshape Lagos but also position the city as a model of sustainable water transport for West Africa and beyond.