Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the January 2027 election, Peter Obi, has criticised the judiciary, academia and senior lawyers over their roles in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Obi spoke in a goodwill message at a democracy dialogue organised by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Bauchi, Bauchi State.

The dialogue, themed ‘Beyond Election,’ focused on issues surrounding Nigeria’s democratic development and the need for reforms beyond the conduct of elections.

Reflecting on his legal battle over the Anambra State governorship, Obi said the judges who presided over his case at the time were no longer common in the country’s judicial system.

The one-time Anambra governor also criticised university professors who had served as returning officers during elections, alleging that some had facilitated electoral manipulation in favour of unqualified candidates.

Obi further took aim at senior lawyers, accusing some of providing legal representation for individuals he described as election riggers.

The former Anambra State governor’s comments came amid broader discussions at the dialogue on strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and improving the credibility of the electoral process.

MTN Nigeria yesterday said it is not showing interest in the manufacturing of devices that a compatible with the fifth generation (5G) technology to drive penetration because of the rapiodly changing environment of technology.

Speaking on the occasion to mark the 25th anniversary of the telco in the country, Chief Financial Officer at MTN Nigeria, Modupe Kadri, said the carrier with the largest subscribers numbers in the country is reluctant to take the full risk of manufacturing or owning large inventories of devices because technology changes too quickly.

5G technology was officially introduced in Nigeria in August/September 2022 with pilot/commercial launch. MTN Nigeria kicked off the first commercial rollout with pilot tests in late August 2022, followed by a formal commercial launch across major cities (including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt) in September 2022. Mafab Communications and Airtel Nigeria subsequently launched their commercial 5G services in January 2023 and June 2023, respectively.

But current 5G penetration data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) provides two main perspectives on 5G penetration. Population network coverage / penetration target.

5G network coverage currently stands at approximately 14per cent of the population, with the NCC setting an aggressive target to push coverage to 30per cent while active 5G subscriptions account for roughly between 3.6per cent and five per cent of total active mobile connections in the country, representing over 6.38 million active subscribers.

Kadri acknowledged that high-quality smartphones remain expensive for many Nigerians, limiting their ability to use 4G, 5G and data-heavy applications.

‘MTN is reluctant to take the full risk of manufacturing or owning large inventories of devices because technology changes too quickly.

‘A phone bought today can become less attractive when a new generation of technology arrives; instead, the company is expanding partnerships with device manufacturers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

‘The strategy is designed to make better devices available to more Nigerians without forcing MTN to carry the full inventory and obsolescence risk on its balance sheet.

‘The company also wants its partners to move beyond Nigeria’s largest cities. The logic is simple: if the next wave of digital growth is expected to come from a broader population, devices cannot remain concentrated in urban markets,’ Kadri said.

He said 25 years after making the first mobile call on its network in Nigeria, MTN Nigeria is preparing for a future in which voice may no longer be the centre of its business.

The telecom operator is betting that its next phase of growth will come from artificial intelligence (AI), financial technology, digital platforms and a new wave of connectivity.

The shift marks a major change for a company that built its Nigerian business around voice calls and SMS.

MTN now has 92 million customers and says it has invested about N1.6 trillion in capital expenditure over the past 18 months. It has also paid more than N620 billion in taxes and other payments during the period, according to Chief Financial Officer at MTN Nigeria, Modupe Kadri.

The scale of the investment shows the size of the infrastructure challenge facing Nigeria’s largest telecom operator: the more Nigerians move online, the more capital MTN needs to keep its network ahead of demand.

But the company is also trying to ensure that it does not remain only a connectivity provider.

‘The good thing is that MTN has brought that technology to Nigerians. Over the past 25 years, MTN has been leading the way,’ Kadri said, describing the evolution from traditional voice calls to voice-over-data services such as WhatsApp and other digital applications.

The company’s strategy is now moving beyond the traditional telecom model.

The first 25 years of mobile telecom in Nigeria were largely about connecting people.

”The next phase is increasingly about what happens after they connect. That means mobile money, digital financial services, entertainment, artificial intelligence, cloud and data services, as well as the infrastructure needed to support businesses that increasingly depend on digital transactions.

For MTN, this creates a potentially larger market than traditional telecommunications.

”FinTech is particularly important because the company’s network gives it access to a large customer base and a distribution platform that reaches far beyond Nigeria’s major cities,’ he said.

Kadri said the regulatory environment that initially slowed the growth of FinTech has changed, creating more room for new financial services and digital platforms.

‘What our customers can look forward to in the FinTech space is greater use of artificial intelligence and other technologies to deliver more benefits to customers,’ he said.

He said the opportunity is significant. A telecom company that can move customers from buying airtime and data to using financial, entertainment and other digital services can generate revenue from more parts of a customer’s daily life.

‘That is the strategic logic behind MTN’s shift toward a platform business. AI is also moving into the centre of MTN’s strategy. The company sees AI not only as a consumer technology but as a tool for improving its own operations,’ he added.

He said the company is examining how AI can improve customer understanding, segmentation and targeting, while also helping it identify customer behaviour and improve the efficiency of its operations.

‘That could become increasingly important as the cost of running telecom networks rises. Instead of simply adding more infrastructure whenever traffic increases, operators can use data and AI to understand where demand is growing, which customers need particular services and where network resources should be deployed. For MTN, AI therefore becomes both a customer-facing technology and an internal efficiency tool,’ he said, promising that the carrier is also looking beyond today’s network technology.

Kadri said nobody can predict exactly where technology will be in another 25 years, but companies need to remain part of the current technology stack to be able to take advantage of what comes next.

‘Technology evolves very quickly, and it is driven by use cases. As human beings and as businesses, we continue to look for ways to drive efficiency, do things better, interact better and connect better,’ Kadri averred.

Despite the push into AI and FinTech, MTN’s future still depends on the network. Its customer base has grown to about 96 million, while data consumption has changed the economics of telecoms.

‘Customers no longer use mobile networks mainly to make calls. They stream video, use social media, conduct financial transactions, work remotely, run businesses, consume entertainment and communicate through data-based applications.

‘Every additional service increases demand for network capacity. That is why the company’s N1.6 trillion capital expenditure over the past 18 months is strategically important.

‘MTN’s challenge is no longer simply to connect more subscribers. It has to ensure that existing customers can use increasingly data-heavy services without a deterioration in quality. Network planning has therefore become a continuous process,’ he said.

Kadri said the company uses forecasting and other tools to identify future demand and areas of opportunity, allowing it to plan capacity before congestion becomes a major problem.

The next connectivity cycle could be even more demanding. The company is already looking beyond 5G, while industry-wide discussions are moving toward newer technologies and ways of moving traffic across different networks, he said, stressing that this makes fibre infrastructure increasingly important.

He said the Federal Government’s planned 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic network could provide another major layer of infrastructure for operators such as MTN.

‘For MTN, the project could help expand high-speed connectivity beyond the country’s largest urban centres and support the growth of home broadband and digital services,’ he said

The company said it is interested in participating in the broader expansion of connectivity.

The opportunity is larger than simply providing faster internet. Fibre is the backbone on which cloud services, data centres, AI applications, enterprise networks and digital businesses will depend.

‘If Nigeria succeeds in expanding its fibre infrastructure, telecom operators will be able to build more services on top of a wider and more reliable digital foundation.

‘For MTN, that would strengthen the case for becoming a broader technology platform rather than remaining primarily a mobile network operator.

Chief Digital Officer at MTN Nigeria, A’isha Mumuni, said the company’s digital strategy also extends into entertainment.

Its Next Afrobeats Star platform is moving into its second season, while the company is producing other family-friendly and educational content, Mumuni added.

The initiatives show how the operator is trying to turn connectivity into a broader consumer relationship.

‘A customer who uses MTN not only for calls and data but also for entertainment, financial services and digital content becomes more valuable to the network.

‘This is the broader platform opportunity. MTN does not necessarily need to own every service. ‘It can provide the network, distribution, customer relationship and digital infrastructure that allow other services to reach millions of Nigerians,’ she said

The transformation comes as Nigeria’s telecom market enters a more difficult phase.

Network costs have risen sharply. Inflation has increased the cost of equipment, energy and operations, while customers remain sensitive to price. At the same time, operators need to invest heavily because demand for data continues to rise.

MTN’s response is to combine infrastructure investment with new revenue streams.

The company has already shown that it can scale a network business. The next question is whether it can successfully turn that scale into a broader digital ecosystem.

Kadri’s comments suggest that MTN does not see its future as a simple race from 5G to 6G.

Instead, the company wants to use each new generation of connectivity as a foundation for more services.

‘Our job as MTN is to always be at the forefront of technology, to ensure that we are able at any point in time to provide our customers with the right levels of experience and stay true to our commitment to make their lives better,’ said Ugonwa Nwoye, the chief customer relations and experience officer of MTN Nigeria.

That puts the company’s next 25 years on a different footing from its first. The first era was about getting Nigerians connected. The next could be about monetising what Nigerians do once they are connected.

For MTN, that means the biggest opportunity may no longer be the number of SIM cards on its network, but the number of digital transactions, financial services, entertainment products and AI-enabled experiences that can run across it.

The network remains the foundation, but the bet is that the value of the next 25 years will be built on everything that sits above it.

A man who raped his neighbour’s 10-year-old daughter has been sentenced to 13 years’ imprisonment, ordered to pay N250,000 in compensation to the victim, and given 20 lashes of the whip in public.

The man, identified as Aliyu Bala, was found guilty of raping the girl at a magistrate’s court in Minna.

After the judgment, the authorities took Bala to the Hakimi Palace in Bosso, where he was publicly flogged in the presence of community members.

The Director-General of the Niger State Child Rights Agency, Barrister Ummul-Kalthume Muhammad, described the development as an unprecedented step to show that the government does not take sexual offences against children lightly.

She said the public enforcement was intended to send a strong warning to anyone who thinks they can abuse children and escape justice, while calling on communities to stop protecting and shielding people who commit such offences.

A representative of the Niger State Ministry of Justice, Shafa, described the judgment as an important development that would set a precedent for how similar cases are handled, urging members of the public to report suspected cases of child abuse instead of allowing offenders to escape justice.

According to her, the victim’s mother initially considered withdrawing the case because of pressures from families and the community but later decided to allow the legal process to continue after understanding the importance of seeking justice for the child and holding the accused accountable.

The Hakimi of Bosso, Malam Muazu Adamu Laka, said this is the first time he has witnessed such a judgment in Minna, adding that it will serve as a strong deterrent to anyone who has the mind to commit such a crime in the future.

He expressed satisfaction with the decision, saying the public enforcement would help community members understand the seriousness of child sexual abuse.

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Ondo State have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election ahead of the 2027 presidential election, declaring their readiness to mobilise support for his administration across the 18 local government areas of the state.

The endorsement was announced on Tuesday at a declaration programme organised by the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), a Pro-Tinubu support group, in Akure, the state capital.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Ondo State Agency for the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities, Princess Folasade Arije, said the disability community appreciated the federal government for recognising the contributions and rights of PWDs.

Arije said the appointment of a Special Adviser on disability matters, among other initiatives, had strengthened the confidence of the group in the Tinubu administration.

She said the endorsement was not only about political support but also an appeal for government to do more to improve the living conditions of persons with disabilities.

‘We, persons with disabilities in Ondo State across the 18 local government areas, are here to declare our support for our President and his second-term bid.

‘We appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for promoting inclusiveness and giving persons with disabilities a sense of belonging in governance,’ Arise said.

According to her, the decision to support President Tinubu’s administration was due to its efforts to promote inclusion and give persons with disabilities greater participation in governance.

She appealed to the Federal government to expand its empowerment initiatives to enable PWDs to become economically self-reliant, calling for more empowerment programmes and increased representation of persons with disabilities in government.

Arije also lauded the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his support for persons with disabilities, particularly in Ondo State.

She, however, urged the government to sustain its inclusion policies while introducing more programmes focused on skills acquisition, employment, entrepreneurship and political representation for persons with disabilities.

Also speaking, a leader of the disability community, Babatunde Gbalajobi, called for greater political inclusion of PWDs, stressing that the community should not be regarded merely as beneficiaries of government assistance.

Gbalajobi urged governments at all levels to create more opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate actively in governance and decision-making.

He said PWDs possessed the capacity to contribute meaningfully to national development if given the necessary opportunities and support.

The State Coordinator of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Asagunla, said the programme was organised following calls from leaders of the disability community for the group to support their mobilisation efforts.

Asagunla said the PWDs had expressed their willingness to mobilise their members across the 18 local government areas for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 election.

He, however, said the endorsement underscored the growing support for the President among various groups in the state.

Nigeria’s Junior YellowGreens bounced back from an opening-day defeat to Uganda with a commanding five-wicket win over Ghana at the Gahanga Oval yesterday, bowling their opponents out for 93 and completing the chase with more than 27 overs to spare.

The victory revived Nigeria’s bid for a place at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup and marked their most complete performance of the tournament so far, built on disciplined bowling, sharp fielding and a controlled run chase.

Nigeria’s campaign began on Sunday against Uganda at Gahanga 2, where the Junior YellowGreens were sent in to bat and lost wickets at regular intervals. Keneth Boniface anchored the innings with 97 off 107 balls, including nine fours and six sixes, falling three runs short of a century. Okasha Isiyaku supported him with a patient 34 off 81 as Nigeria were bowled out for 176 in 45 overs.

Defending the total, Pelumi Orimolade took 2/24, with Abdullahi Ismail, Princewill Chigozie and Isiyaku each claiming a wicket. Uganda chased the target down for the loss of five wickets in 38.2 overs, with Samuel Ahaisibwe’s 72 the difference.

Ghana won the toss and elected to bat on Monday but found no answer to a disciplined Nigerian attack. Boniface took 4/33 from eight overs, Precious Ayeni returned 2/9 from eight, and Chigozie conceded just nine runs from 10 tight overs. Isiyaku, Orimolade and Daniel Ayodele shared the remaining wickets as Ghana were dismissed for 93 in 39.5 overs. David Ateak’s 26 was the innings’ top score.

Chasing 94, Nigeria slipped to 56/4 and later 77/5 under pressure from tight Ghanaian bowling before recovering. Boniface finished unbeaten on 30 off 32 balls, with Andrew Abah (20) and Peculiar Egemasi (17) offering key support as Nigeria reached 96/5 in 22.2 overs.

Boniface was named Player of the Match for his all-round contribution. ‘I’m just trying to go on with the team plan,’ he said. ‘The team plan is just to play around and get what I need, so I have to just wait there, enjoy the game, less pressure. That’s all.’

Nigeria captain Ali Rahmon said the bowling unit had delivered but flagged concerns over the batting: ‘We got more dot balls though, and mounted pressure, and we were able to bowl them out. Bowlers did a very good job restricting them to 94 runs. But I feel as a batting unit, we are not there yet because we lost too many wickets chasing 94 runs.’

Boniface leads Nigeria’s campaign with 127 runs and four wickets across two matches.

Nigeria face tournament hosts Rwanda on Wednesday, 12 August, before matches against Mozambique and Sierra Leone as they continue their push for World Cup qualification.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Jennifer Adighije, an engineer, has called for the optimisation of Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure as a critical pathway to unlocking the country’s socio-economic transformation, saying reliable power remains the foundation for industrialisation, investment and sustainable national development.

Adighije made the call while delivering the Distinguished Alumni Lecture organised by the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Lagos (UNILAG), recently. The lecture was titled: ‘Optimising Electricity for Powering Nigeria’s New Socio-Economic Frontiers.’

According to Adighije, electricity has become the ‘currency of development’ in today’s global economy, stressing that nations with reliable and affordable power supply are better positioned to create jobs, attract investments, drive industrialisation, strengthen healthcare and education systems, and improve the overall quality of life of their citizens.

She noted that the Electricity Act 2023 represents one of the most significant reforms in Nigeria’s power sector by granting states the authority to establish and regulate their own electricity markets.

‘The legislation has created unprecedented opportunities for investment, innovation, competition and improved service delivery while accelerating the emergence of vibrant sub-national electricity markets capable of attracting greater private-sector participation,’ she said.

Adighije said NDPHC is repositioning itself to maximise the value of its assets by improving operational efficiency, strengthening corporate governance, fostering strategic partnerships and ensuring that investments in the power sector translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians.

She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) through efficient asset management and infrastructure optimisation.

Looking ahead, the NDPHC chief expressed confidence in the next generation of engineers, saying they would play a leading role in deploying smarter electricity grids and cleaner, technology-driven energy systems powered by artificial intelligence, automation, battery storage, smart metering and advanced power electronics.

She urged engineering students to embrace continuous learning, maintain professional discipline and see engineering as a vocation committed to solving societal challenges and building infrastructure that supports economic growth.

Adighije concluded that Nigeria’s electricity sector is entering a new era characterised by reform, innovation, collaboration and increased investment, emphasising that optimising electricity is essential to powering homes, industries and businesses while unlocking the country’s enormous socio-economic potential.

In her opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, described the lecture as a celebration of excellence, collaboration and the enduring legacy of UNILAG.

She commended Adighije as one of the University’s distinguished alumni whose professional accomplishments reflect the institution’s commitment to producing graduates with technical competence, integrity and visionary leadership.

Ogunsola noted that the rapid technological changes associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution have made stronger partnerships among academia, industry and government increasingly important.

‘Through initiatives such as this, we create platforms where experience meets aspiration and where our students are inspired by those who have successfully translated knowledge into impactful service,’ she said.

The lecture attracted academics, industry professionals, students and stakeholders from Nigeria’s power sector, providing a platform for robust discussions on electricity sector reforms, innovation and the critical role of engineering in driving the country’s economic development.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has removed Ebanehita Sonia Omonzane as Chairman of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

No official statement has been released on why she was removed, but a letter by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Musa Ikhilor, said Governor Okpebholo has nominated Hon. Ayewoh Ambrose Oyakhilome as the Chairman of Edo SUBEB.

Government sources said Ebanehita was removed two months ago.

She was reportedly asked not to resume office.

Ayewoh is the fourth person to be named Chairman of Edo SUBEB within two years of Okpebholo’s administration.

Governor Okpebholo first appointed Dr. Paddy Iyamu as SUBEB chairman but redeployed him to Commissioner for Education.

In January last year, Okpebholo swore in Onomen Goodness Briggs as the new SUBEB Chairman.

Six months later, Okpebholo replaced Briggs with Hon. Ebanehita Sonia Omonzane as SUBEB Chairman while Briggs was moved to head the Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE).

The letter nominating Ayewoh described him as a dedicated politician and public administrator with a strong passion for effective leadership.

It said Ayewoh served as Executive Chairman of the Edo State Rural Access Roads Agency (RARA), ‘where he contributed to the administration and implementation of government programmes aimed at improving rural connectivity and infrastructure.

‘Accordingly, his name will be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for consideration and confirmation.’

Chief Executive Officer, Beta Glass Plc., Alex Gendis, has been selected as the keynote speaker at this year’s Propak West Africa Summit.

He is expected to share insights into the evolving landscape of food processing and packaging, highlighting the strategic investments, innovation, sustainability initiatives, and industry collaboration required to unlock long-term growth across West Africa.

The event, which has as its theme: ‘Unlocking growth in food processing and packaging: Drivers, opportunities, constraints and economic linkages’, would hold from September 8-10, this year at Landmark Event Centre, Oniru Victoria Island, Lagos.

The summit is expected to bring together industry leaders, policymakers, manufacturers, investors, technology providers and development partners to explore the key factors driving sustainable growth across the food processing and packaging value chain.

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has commended intelligence and security agencies in the state for nabbing three members of a notorious kidnap gang responsible for the August 2, 2026 attack on St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Inoyi-Affa, in Udi LGA of the state.

A joint operation by the Department of State Services (DSS), the Army, Police, Enugu State Forest Guard, and others, led to a gun battle with the suspected kidnappers.

One suspected member of the kidnapping gang was neutralized, while the security team recovered four AK-47 rifles and a cache of ammunition.

The governor made the commendation on Monday night after visiting the state DSS headquarters to see the arrested suspected kidnappers.

The governor, who was represented by Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, disclosed that two of the three kidnapped victims of the August 2 attack, Seminarian Lawrence Igbo and Mr. Emmanuel Onwudi, had regained their freedom.

The victims, stated the SSG, had fully identified the apprehended men as their abductors.

On behalf of the governor, the SSG assured the people of Enugu State that the Mbah administration would continue to prioritise and invest in the security of their lives and properties.

‘There was one fatality in this process. It was one of the criminals that died in the process of apprehending them. Usually, criminal elements will not want to be apprehended easily without a fight, but our people were ready, and we have one fatality, while the others are here now as you can see; and they will face the full wrath of the law,’ he declared.

‘We made it very clear that if criminality becomes your venture, Enugu State is not the location to do that business; that we will pursue you, we will make sure we bring you to justice, and that was why we put the robust security architecture across the state, working in collaboration with the security forces to ensure that Enugu is uncomfortable for anybody that plans criminality, and you’re seeing that very clearly.

‘We are intentional in investing in and organising our security architecture to prevent crime. But if there is a breach, you can run, but cannot hide for long. We must get you. You can’t commit these crimes in Enugu State and get away with it. No way,’ he said.

He warned citizens against colluding with criminal elements or serve as their informants, vowing to come after them.

‘We will find you also, just as we have found these people, and we will prosecute you as part of this evil operation and this evil syndicate.

‘Wherever you are, know that investigation is ongoing and that this government will track you down, and you will pay for your crimes in planning havoc on our citizens. So wherever you are, we are still coming for you,’ he stressed.

He showered encomium on the security forces for their cooperation and gallantry.

‘We also want to very highly commend all the security agencies: the DSS, Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Police, the Enugu State Forest Guard, the military services, others for being very instrumental in some of the work that was done, and continue to do in Enugu State,’ the SSG declared.

The usually quiet chambers and expansive hospitality venue within the palace of HRM Oba Lateef Atanda Adams Akinwumi I, Onikate of Ikateland, Surulere, came alive recently as prominent personalities from across Lagos gathered to celebrate the traditional ruler’s 10th anniversary on the throne.

The occasion featured the installation of celebrity healthcare advocate, businesswoman and founder and National Chairman of the Northern People’s Political Group (NPPG), Hajiya Ramat Lawal, as Yeye Asiwaju of Ikateland, alongside seven other prominent women.

From as early as 8am, a stream of vehicles and distinguished guests arrived at the palace for the ceremony, which combined the celebration of the monarch’s decade on the throne with recognition of women who have distinguished themselves through service and community development.

For Lawal, the conferment was presented as recognition of her longstanding commitment to healthcare awareness, women empowerment and grassroots development.

The honour, according to her associates and family members, was not merely a recognition of her prominence as a businesswoman or political figure, but a celebration of a life devoted to supporting communities and transforming lives.

Lawal is the President of the Ramat Women Support and Empowerment Foundation (RAWSE Foundation), an organisation focused on women empowerment, youth development, education and healthcare initiatives.

Her citation at the installation described her as a ‘prime mover’ and woman of purpose whose activities have touched many lives. It also highlighted her commitment to compassion, inclusivity, humility and service to humanity.

Speaking after her installation, Lawal said her humanitarian activities were driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference rather than to seek public acclaim. She said her objective, both as National Chairman of NPPG and President of RAWSE Foundation, was rooted in love, care, compassion and a commitment to touching and transforming lives.

The installation attracted an array of political, business and entertainment personalities. Among the special guests were Chief Mrs Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, the Iyaloja-General; Chief Mrs Shekinat Adewale; Hon. Gbenga Lee; and Nollywood actor Saheed Balogun.

Several political office holders and community leaders also attended, including Olufemi Daniel Odunayo, Chairman of Itire/Ikate LCDA; Adeyemi Alli; Kayode Fouad Laguda; Sabur Oluwa; Akanbi Sylvester Ogunkelu; and Damilola Ayinde Marshall.

The citation further portrayed Lawal as a business tycoon who has made goodness and public-spiritedness an intrinsic part of her values and purpose.

It described her as someone who does not pursue recognition for its own sake but continues to support humanitarian causes and community development through her various initiatives.

Her emergence as Yeye Asiwaju was therefore framed as a recognition of her contribution to society and her commitment to empowering women and young people, promoting healthcare awareness and supporting grassroots development.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity to reflect on the 10-year reign of Oba Akinwumi as Onikate of Ikateland. The anniversary celebration, which brought together traditional, political, business and entertainment figures, was rounded off in grand style with a live performance by Fuji maestro Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as KWAM1.

His performance, featuring melodious tunes and praise songs, drew guests to the dance floor, providing a lively finale to the celebration. For Lawal, however, the new traditional title carries a significance beyond the ceremony itself. It adds a new dimension to a public profile built around business, politics, healthcare advocacy and philanthropy, while placing her among the women recognised for their contributions to the development of Ikateland and Lagos State.