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The Rotary Club Zone 2, D9111, has held a two-day free eye screening and cataract surgery exercise in Lagos State.

The event, which came under the theme, ‘Free Cataract Surgery Outreach’, brought together beneficiaries, medical professionals, and Rotary members to provide access to quality eye care services.

Speaking at the event, President, Rotary Club of Gowon Estate, Lagos, Ibiam Festus explained that the decision of Rotary Zone 2, D9111 to embark on a free cataract surgery outreach was informed by a deep concern for community health, the economic hardship faced by vulnerable people, and Rotary’s commitment to humanitarian service.

According to him, Cataracts can cause severe visual impairment and blindness, adding that the outreach seeks to help affected individuals regain their sight, independence, dignity, and confidence.

‘Many people, particularly low-income earners, cannot afford cataract surgery. Providing free surgery removes a major financial barrier to treatment’, he added.

To him, restoring sight enables beneficiaries to return to work, support their families, and contribute meaningfully to society.

He explained that the initiative tagged ‘The Mission for Vision’ (M4V) reflected the importance of identifying genuine health challenges within the communities and developing practical interventions that address them.

He affirmed that the project demonstrates Rotary’s commitment to service, collaboration, and creating lasting impact through sustainable community interventions.

‘By mobilising Rotary Clubs, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and other stakeholders, Zone 2 can reach more people than individual Clubs might be able to serve alone,’ he added.

He recalled that during the two-day exercise, which held at Royal Estate LASU Isheri road Egbeda and Sango Primary Health Care, Agege, about 342 patients underwent eye-screening while total cataract patients identified were 83 in the two days screening exercise.

‘After the screening exercise, patients identified with eye conditions are referred for further medical evaluation and appropriate treatment.

‘Those diagnosed with cataracts are assessed for eligibility for free cataract surgery, while other patients receive the necessary medical advice, prescriptions, or referrals.

‘This demonstrates the importance of taking healthcare services closer to people who need them.

‘The initiative aligns with Rotary District 9111’s broader Mission for Vision programme, which supports free cataract surgeries and eye-care services for people in need.

‘The motivation is simple; no one should lose their sight or remain unnecessarily blind because they cannot afford treatment.

‘Zone 2’s decision represents a commitment to transforming lives, restoring hope, strengthening families, and demonstrating that Rotary is not merely an organisation that talks about service but one that takes practical action to improve human lives’, he said.

On her part, Chairman 2026/2027 Mission for Vision District 9111, Chandra Nalode said the eye screening and the surgery exercise were aimed at restoring sight to the needy, reaffirming Rotary’s commitment to disease prevention and community health.

Some of the beneficiaries who spoke to BusinessDay Sunday commended Rotary for the life-changing intervention, noting that the free surgery will restore their sight and give them a new life.

The Mission for Vision (M4V) programme is said to be an annual initiative of Rotary District 9111.

Fashion is one of those industries that looks incredibly beautiful from the outside. We see the collections, the campaigns, the fashion shows, the carefully styled photographs, and the excitement that comes with launching something new. What we do not always see is the amount of work that goes into keeping a fashion business alive after the excitement has settled.

I have come to understand that there is a significant difference between creating a beautiful product and building a successful fashion brand.

One requires creativity. The other requires creativity, business discipline, consistency, financial understanding, and the ability to make difficult decisions.

And while the fashion industry continues to attract talented designers and entrepreneurs, I believe we need to have more honest conversations about the business behind the beauty.

As the founder of Paciencia, a Nigerian fashion brand specialising in handmade leather bags, this is a subject that matters deeply to me. Building a brand has reinforced my belief that good design is only the beginning. The real challenge is creating a business that customers trust, that can compete in its market, and that has the capacity to grow.

Fashion Is Creative, but It Is Also Commercial

One of the biggest misconceptions about the fashion industry is that a great product will automatically find its audience.

It is an understandable assumption. When you have invested time and effort into creating something you believe in, it is natural to expect people to recognise its value.

But the market does not always work that way.

A beautifully designed handbag can attract attention without necessarily generating sales. A fashion collection can receive praise without producing enough revenue to cover its costs. A brand can become popular on social media and still struggle to remain profitable.

This is the reality that every emerging fashion entrepreneur must eventually confront.

Creativity gives a brand its identity, but commercial understanding gives it the opportunity to survive.

Fashion entrepreneurs must understand their customers, their costs, their pricing, and the market they are trying to serve. They must know what makes their products relevant and why someone should choose them over the many alternatives available.

These are not conversations that diminish creativity. They are the conversations that make it possible to keep creating.

The Real Cost of Building a Nigerian Fashion Brand

Running a fashion business in Nigeria comes with its own set of challenges.

The cost of materials, production, packaging, logistics, marketing, and daily operations can place considerable pressure on emerging brands. For businesses working with leather and other specialised materials, maintaining quality while managing costs requires particularly careful decisions.

There is also the question of pricing.

Customers want beautiful, durable products at prices they consider reasonable. At the same time, businesses must account for the actual cost of producing those products, compensate the people involved, and generate enough income to continue operating.

Finding that balance is not always straightforward.

At Paciencia, where our focus is on handmade leather bags, I believe it is important to recognise the value of craftsmanship in the broader conversation about pricing.

A handmade product involves more than the cost of its raw materials. There is the design process, the skill required to bring the product to life, the attention given to its finishing, and the time invested in making sure the final piece reflects the brand’s standards.

When consumers compare handmade leather bags with mass-produced alternatives, they may not immediately see these differences.

That is why fashion brands must become better at communicating value.

We cannot assume customers will automatically understand what goes into our products. We have to tell those stories clearly, while ensuring that the quality of what we offer supports the promises we make.

A Fashion Brand Is Not the Same as a Fashion Business

I believe this distinction deserves more attention, particularly among emerging Nigerian fashion entrepreneurs.

Starting a fashion brand has become more accessible in many ways. Social media allows entrepreneurs to introduce their products to customers without immediately investing in physical retail spaces. Digital platforms have created opportunities for independent designers to build audiences and sell directly to consumers.

These developments are encouraging, but they have also made it easy to confuse visibility with business success.

Having a recognisable brand name, an attractive Instagram page, or a successful product launch does not necessarily mean a business is financially healthy.

A sustainable fashion business needs systems.

It needs a clear understanding of inventory, cash flow, production timelines, customer service, and profitability. It needs processes that do not collapse every time demand increases or an unexpected challenge arises.

Most importantly, it needs a long-term vision.

The question should not only be, ‘How do I sell my next collection?’

It should also be, ‘What kind of business am I building, and will the decisions I make today support where I want it to be in five years?’

That shift in thinking is essential.

Why Brand Identity Matters in a Crowded Fashion Market

The Nigerian fashion industry is filled with creativity. New clothing labels, handbag brands, accessories businesses, and independent designers continue to enter the market, giving consumers more options than ever before.

While this is a positive development, it also means that standing out requires more than simply having attractive products.

A brand must have a recognisable identity.

For me, this is one of the most important lessons in the business of fashion.

Customers should be able to understand what a brand represents, the type of products it creates, and the value it offers.

At Paciencia, our identity is closely connected to handmade leather bags, thoughtful design, and an appreciation for craftsmanship.

I believe a handbag should be both practical and expressive. It should serve a purpose in the everyday life of the person carrying it while contributing to their personal style.

That understanding influences the kind of brand we are building.

It is also why I believe emerging Nigerian handbag brands must resist the pressure to follow every trend.

Trends can create opportunities, but they can also distract businesses from their original vision.

There is nothing wrong with responding to changing consumer preferences. Fashion is constantly evolving, after all. But a brand should be able to evolve without losing the qualities that make it distinctive.

A strong identity gives customers a reason to remember you. Consistent delivery gives them a reason to return.

The Customer Is at the Centre of Every Successful Fashion Business

One thing I believe fashion entrepreneurs must never forget is that we are not creating products for ourselves alone.

We are creating for people with different lifestyles, expectations, preferences, and purchasing decisions.

Understanding those people is a major part of building a successful brand.

In the handmade leather bag business, for example, customers may be drawn to a product because of its appearance, but their satisfaction often depends on much more.

They consider how comfortable it is to carry, how easily it fits into their daily routine, the quality of its finishing, and whether it meets their expectations over time.

The experience does not end when a customer makes a payment.

Communication, packaging, delivery, and after-sales support all influence how people remember a brand.

For emerging fashion businesses, these details can become powerful competitive advantages.

A customer who has a positive experience is more likely to recommend a brand, make another purchase, or become part of the community around it.

And in an industry where trust is so important, those relationships are invaluable.

Nigerian Fashion Brands Must Think Beyond Social Media

Social media has played a significant role in the growth of independent fashion businesses. It has made it easier for emerging brands to reach audiences, showcase products, and communicate directly with potential customers.

But I believe fashion entrepreneurs need to think beyond social media as their primary growth strategy.

An online following is useful, but it is not a substitute for a sustainable business model.

Brands need to invest in discoverability, professional websites, customer relationships, retail opportunities, and distribution channels that allow them to reach people beyond their existing followers.

For Nigerian leather bag brands like Paciencia, having a strong digital presence is about more than posting attractive product photographs.

It is about helping customers discover the brand when they are actively searching for handmade leather bags, Nigerian handbag designers, or accessories that reflect their personal style.

It is also about making the buying experience clear and convenient.

The businesses that will grow are not necessarily those making the most noise online. They are the ones that understand how to turn attention into trust, trust into purchases, and purchases into lasting customer relationships.

The Opportunity for Nigerian Leather Goods and Accessories Brands

When discussing the future of Nigerian fashion, I believe we need to pay more attention to the business potential of accessories.

Clothing often dominates the conversation, but handbags, footwear, and leather goods are important parts of the fashion economy.

A well-designed handbag has the ability to become part of someone’s everyday life. It can move between different occasions, complement different outfits, and remain relevant beyond a particular fashion season.

This creates opportunities for brands that understand design, functionality, and consumer needs.

There is also room for Nigerian fashion businesses to develop stronger positions in the premium and contemporary accessories markets.

However, that opportunity must be supported by consistent product quality, credible branding, and sound business practices.

We cannot build competitive fashion businesses on creativity alone.

We need to pay attention to sourcing, production standards, customer expectations, and how our products are presented in the marketplace.

I would love to see more Nigerian handmade leather bag brands gain recognition for the quality of their work, not simply because they represent local creativity, but because they offer products that customers genuinely value.

That is an ambition I carry into the journey of building Paciencia.

The Future of Fashion Belongs to Brands That Understand Both Design and Business

I am optimistic about the future of the Nigerian fashion industry.

There is no shortage of talent, ambition, or creativity. What we need is an equally strong commitment to building businesses that can support those qualities over time.

We need more conversations about financial literacy, production efficiency, customer retention, access to funding, and the realities of scaling a fashion business.

We need emerging designers to understand that business knowledge is not separate from their creative journey. It is part of what makes that journey sustainable.

And we need consumers, investors, and industry stakeholders to recognise the economic potential of fashion beyond the glamour associated with it.

For me, building Paciencia is an opportunity to bring these ideas together.

It is about creating handmade leather bags that reflect our design philosophy while building a Nigerian fashion business with a clear identity and long-term ambition.

There will always be new trends, new collections, and new brands entering the industry. That is part of what makes fashion exciting.

But the brands that stand the test of time will be those that understand what they offer, who they serve, and how to deliver value consistently.

A beautiful product may introduce a brand to the world, but it is the strength of the business behind it that determines how long that brand remains relevant.

That, to me, is the real business of fashion.

Details have emerged on how Kula youths died at the bottom of the sea close to the Atlantic Ocean in an encounter with a vessel belonging to the Ibeto group.

Cries rang out in the week that a speed boat carrying 15 Kula youths of Akuku-Toru LGA of Rivers State, a town next to the Ocean, was crushed by a vessel which the youths attempted to stop from sailing out. The vessel known as Anambra FSO was said to be laden with 200,000 barrels of crude oil. The youths had many reasons to block the vessel, but about 10 of them ended up dead.

BusinessDay has been digging into what really happened that fateful Tuesday afternoon in the sea.

Kula community delegation at the Government House in Port Harcourt

Youths and vigilante members guarding the river

The Rivers State government has however stepped into the raucous, vowing to deal ruthlessly with anyone found liable in the deaths.

Gov Sim Fubara said 10 persons were killed and vowed to get to the root of the circumstances.

Gov Fubara gave the assurance on Thursday, October 22, 2026, when the people of Kula Community staged a peaceful march to Government House, Port Harcourt, carrying some of the corpses.

The governor, who was represented by Sunny Ewule, his Chief of Staff, sympathised with the bereaved families and appealed to the people to remain calm and avoid taking the laws into their own hands.

He assured the people of Kula that all those allegedly involved in the act that led to the death of their kinsmen would face the full wrath of the law.

The monstrous vessel

According to the Governor, death is a serious matter, and the Rivers State Government would not rest until it got to the bottom of the matter. ‘We are not going to sit by and allow Rivers indigenes go through this type of unnecessary death.’

Earlier, Anabs Sara-Igbe, a high chief and leader of the Kula Community to the Government House, said they were there to formally complain about the unfortunate incident and seek the government’s intervention.

‘It is proper we inform him (Fubara) because we don’t want to take the laws into our hands. We have the capacity to react but we don’t want to react,’ he said.

Boats and vessel

What Kula community claimed:

The community had raised alarm on Thursday, saying rescue efforts were underway to recover bodies of seven persons drowned at the Robertkiri waterways in Kula following a mishap involving a tugboat and a speedboat carrying over 15 persons.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, 20th October 2026, when a tugboat escorted by military personnel attempted to pull out a 200,000-barrel capacity oil vessel operated by the Ibeto Group after two years of operating in the area.

The victims include Davies Opiri (the Secretary of the Kula CDC) and two members of a local security outfit known as Amama Soldiers whose identity were yet to be known.

Others were named as David Sukubo, Endwell Ameme, Aboy Umeonu and Nye Oriye. They were said to be protesting members of Kula satellite communities and fishing settlements who had vowed to prevent the oil vessel from sailing out of their coastal waters until matters with the company were resolved.

They alleged that the Ibeto Group polluted their waterways, fishing ports and creeks, refused to pay local vendors, and allegedly failed to pay royalties due to the host communities in the course of its operations in the area.

The community said eight persons were rescued alive from the boat mishap. The search and rescue team, which included the DPO of Abonnema Police Division; Sukubu Sara-Igbe Sukubo, the President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, chiefs and other indigenes of Kula, searched through creeks and water bodies where the incident occurred, they added.

The statement said they, however, were unable to find the bodies of any of the victims 24 hours after the incident.

One of the survivors, Gibert Pokubo, blamed military personnel attached to the tugboat for the incident.

He alleged that the military acted on the instruction of the Ibeto Group to forcefully pull out the oil vessel from the area and crush any obstable on their way.

One of the leaders of the search and rescue team, Jonah Joshua, expressed hope of recovering the bodies of all the victims.

He said the Ibeto Group and personnel of the Sector 3 Command Okrika of the Nigeria Army involved should be held responsible for what he described as avoidable deaths of the innocent persons.

A relative of one of the victims, Stephen Willbraide, said the wife, children and other family members of the deceased are deeply saddened and devastated by the incident.

He demanded a thorough investigation and justice in the matter.

The search and rescue operation continue today to recover the remains of the 7 victims.

Kula community gather beside the waters to receive corpses

Ibeto reacts, denies responsibility:

Ibeto group, in an unsigned and unauthored statement sent to media houses through an aide Thursday morning said Max Shipping Services Limited, a company in its group, noted with deep concern recent media reports concerning an incident at Kula community, Rivers State, involving its vessel, ANAMBRA BASIN FSO. ‘The reports contain allegations linking the vessel’s recovery operation to an oil spill, the deployment of armed personnel allegedly authorised by Chief Dr. Cletus Ibeto, and a boat capsizing in which several persons are feared to have lost their lives.’

From the statement, it was clear that Ibeto owns Max Shipping, while Max Shipping owns Anambra Basin FSO (vessel) which they hired out to Menal Technical Services Ltd to execute the job in Kula. This may have made the Kula community to see and know no other company than Ibeto.

The statement went on: ‘In view of the seriousness of these allegations, we consider it necessary to clarify the facts concerning our company’s involvement.

‘First, Max Shipping Services Limited is the owner of ANAMBRA BASIN FSO, not the operator of the oilfield or the underlying petroleum operations at Kula community. The vessel was hired to Menal Technical Services Limited under a Marine Equipment Hire Agreement dated 20 September 2024, subsequently amended by an Addendum.

‘Our company’s contractual relationship in respect of the vessel was with Menal Technical Services Limited. We were not a party to the separate operational arrangements that Menal or the end user may have had with the host community.

‘Under the ‘Hire Agreement’, Menal Technical Services Limited assumed specified responsibilities relating to operational exigencies, community settlements, security of the vessel and personnel, and demobilisation.

‘Following prolonged outstanding hire payments and repeated efforts to obtain settlement, Max Shipping Services Limited exercised its contractual right to retrieve its equipment.’

Before the demobilisation effort, the statement added, the crude oil stored in the vessel had been discharged. ‘Tank inspection documents issued by Checkirem and GSV Inspection Services Limited in September 2026 recorded that the inspected tanks were free and clean of crude oil at the time of inspection. These records form part of the documentary evidence being preserved for the relevant authorities.

‘We also made repeated efforts to resolve the situation peacefully. Our representatives met with community leaders and representatives on several occasions to explain the nature of our company’s contractual relationship with Menal Technical Services Limited, clarify that we were seeking to retrieve our own equipment, and address any misunderstanding concerning our role at the location. We sought a peaceful resolution rather than confrontation.

‘We are therefore deeply concerned by reports that have attributed responsibility for the incident and the alleged loss of life to our Chairman, Chief Dr. Cletus Madubugwu Ibeto, or have presented the vessel’s recovery operation as an operation undertaken by him in connection with the underlying oilfield activities.’

The vessel, ANAMBRA BASIN FSO, the statement said, is owned by Max Shipping Services Limited, a subsidiary of Ibeto Group, and was hired to Menal Technical Services Limited for deployment at the location.

‘The vessel’s ownership must be distinguished from the separate petroleum operations and community-related arrangements at Kula Community. Under the contractual arrangement, Menal Technical Services Limited, as the Hirer, was responsible for the vessel’s operations at the location, including the relevant operational arrangements and community-related obligations, in conjunction with the end user, as applicable.’

Accordingly, they said, the operational activities and arrangements undertaken by the Hirer and the end user in connection with the petroleum operations at the location should not be conflated with the ownership of the vessel.

‘We are deeply saddened by reports that a community boat capsized and that allegedly lives may have been lost. We recognise the distress and uncertainty experienced by those awaiting confirmation of the whereabouts and condition of their loved ones and as the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, we pray that the relevant security authorities investigate the incident and take all necessary lawful steps to protect human life and prevent further incidents.

‘We appeal to all parties to remain calm, refrain from violence, and allow the competent authorities to determine the facts.’

Max Shipping Services Limited was said to have always maintained cordial and peaceful relationships with its host community and neighbouring communities within its own areas of operation, supported by constructive community engagement and social responsibility initiatives.

They said the Company remained committed to fostering mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and positive relationships with the communities.

Max urged the media and the public to distinguish between the vessel’s ownership, the contractual responsibilities of its hirer, and the separate operations and arrangements at the oilfield. ‘Serious allegations should be based on verified facts, not assumptions.’

How the crushing and drowning took place:

BusinessDay deep inquiries and findings revealed that the NNPC/Belema JV awarded crude oil evacuation job to Max Shipping Ltd belonging to Ibeto Group since past few years.

The Kula community and their satellite settlements were said to have demanded for rights and host status in the evacuation jobs. The demand was said to have dragged on.

Max was said to have, however, given out some supply jobs to some Kula community vendors but the community claims they owed over the years.

Max hired out their vessel, Anambra Basin FSO to Penal Technical Services Ltd (hirer) to execute the job. The NNPC/Belema was said to have been unsatisfied with the services especially pollution issues and thus terminated the Max contract.

The community was said to have insisted that the vessel must leave their area until they were compensated for pollution, payment to community vendors, etc.

BusinessDay gathered that negotiations with the community continued at Ibeto office in GRA Port Harcourt. A source at the meetings told BusinessDay that as far as they were concerned, they were negotiating with Ibeto.

The source said they were surprised that while the negotiations were still ongoing, Ibeto through Max brought in the Army and attempted to pullout and go.

Community youths and vigilante team were said to have mobilized and intercepted the move and stopped them.

The vessel was described as very massive, but not self-propelled. It required two tug-boats to pull it along; one in front, one to push it at the back. Long ropes were tied to the sides of the vessel.

An army unit was procured to escort the vessel of the Kula waters. On the other hand, the Kula youths in their fast boat stayed at the side of the massive vessel, stopping it from going.

A source said at a point, the commander of the Army unit shouted order for the tugboat to pull. As it pulled, it was gathered that the rope stretched and threw the fastboat into the air and slammed it into the water (sea). The 15 youths allegedly slammed into the bottom of the sea, to the bottom of the vessel. Tragedy thus struck.

It was gathered that it was Community members that mobilized for rescue; they went to work and rescued some of the victims.

Eye witnesses said it must be the propeller of the fast boat that slashed at the victims. The bottom of the vessel was far into the water, and the youths were pushed there.

The rescue effort was said to find eight alive while seven were missing until five bodies were allegedly later found, still leaving two yet to be found.

Ibeto and Max insist that it is Penal Technicals Ltd (the hirer) that had any obligations and responsibilities with the Kula Community, but community sources insist that they had nothing to do with Penal but with Max for Ibeto.

On why the community youths chose the waterways to protest, a source said riverine people protest in the waters, not on land because they have no land like the upland people. On why the youths chose action instead of meetings with the company, the source said they had made several efforts and in fact were still in meetings in Port Harcourt when news came that the vessel was being pullout out. The source said the youths were given no option than to stage action.

Efforts to get reactions of the Army unit that was in charge of the escort duty have so far proved abortive.

ýýMonday Okpebholo, governor of Edo State, has terminated the appointment of Nicholas Odamah as Regent of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state, barely 11 months after his appointment.

ýBusinessDay reports that the governor had, on November 13, 2025, removed Zaiki Luckman Momodu Odamah III, the erstwhile traditional ruler of the clan and appointed Nicholas Odamah as regent.

ýA statement issued at the time by Umar Musa Ikhilor, the Secretary to the State Government, said the removal of Luckman Momodu Odamah III followed a review of the circumstances surrounding the ongoing disputes over traditional leadership in the clan and kingdom.

ýIkhilor added that the action was taken in the interest of peace, stability and due process.

ýHe subsequently announced the appointment of Nicholas Odamah as regent of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan with immediate effect, pending the determination of the rightful occupant of the throne.

ýThe statement said the regent was expected to oversee the affairs of the clan pending further decisions.

ýHe was also mandated to oversee the clan’s affairs in a custodial capacity and ensure full compliance with government directives.

ýHowever, more than 11 months after the appointment, the state government, in a letter dated October 20, 2026, announced the termination of Nicholas Odamah’s appointment and the restoration of Zaiki Luckman Momodu Odamah III as the traditional ruler of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan.

ýThe letter, signed by Ikhilor, said the decision followed appeals from concerned indigenes of Akoko-Edo and the subsequent confirmation that the dispute over traditional leadership in the clan was already before a competent court of law.

ýAccording to the letter, the government decided to review and rescind its earlier decision in view of these developments.

ýThe statement read in part: ‘Consequently, the State Government hereby terminates the appointment of Mr Nicholas Odamah as Regent of Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan and restores the status quo ante his appointment.

ý’All security agencies have been duly notified of this development and directed to maintain peace, law and order, as well as ensure the protection of lives and property in the affected communities.

ý’The Edo State Government remains committed to upholding fairness, justice and the rule of law, while preserving the state’s traditional institutions and values’, he said

ýThe government urged all parties to remain calm, exercise restraint and allow the judicial process to run its course.

ýIt would be recalled that the removed traditional ruler, Zaiki Luckman Odamah III, had petitioned Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Edo State House of Assembly, urging them not to confirm Roland Otaru as a commissioner in the state cabinet over alleged bias in the chieftaincy dispute.

ýOtaru, the current Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, is an indigene of the clan.

ýIn a petition addressed to the governor on August 29, 2025, the monarch argued that confirming Otaru would effectively place him in a position to judge his own case.

ýOdamah III alleged that Otaru had opposed his ascension to the throne following the death of his father on September 11, 2011.

ýAccording to him, ‘Otaru has, since the death of my father, HRH Momodu Odamah II, been working tirelessly against my nomination, traditional installation, and eventual appointment by the state government as a successor to my father.

ý’From 2012 till date, Otaru has been acting and continues to act as counsel to the Akoko-Edo traditional council that unsuccessfully challenged my appointment.

ý’To this end, he unsuccessfully opposed the suit I filed before the High Court, Igarra, which now has a pending appeal at the Supreme Court.

ý’In addition, in December 2020, Otaru, who is from the Emegbe family of Igun kindred, raised one Joseph Shuru Uduagbamen from his kindred and sought to impose him as the Zaiki of the Ikpeshi/Egbigere Clan. To carry out this plot, they filed a case before the Igarra High Court to set aside the gazette/declaration regulating the appointment of the traditional ruler.

ý’The suit was dismissed on March 16, 2022, and the Emegbe family proceeded to the Court of Appeal, Benin. From 2012 to date, Otaru has consistently opposed the position of the Edo State Government, the Attorney-General of Edo State, and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in all court cases concerning my ascension to the throne, from the High Court to the Court of Appeal and now the Supreme Court.

ý’Thus, his membership of the State Executive Council will ultimately put him in a position that makes him a judge in his own case, that is, to supplant the lawful position of the Edo State Government that has never filed or accepted any contrary position to that contained in the chieftaincy declaration gazette,’ he added.

ýThe traditional ruler said his petition was intended to present the facts to the governor before Otaru assumed office as a commissioner.

ýHe added that the petition was aimed at ensuring that appointments of traditional rulers in the state complied fully with the relevant gazette or declaration enacted into law by the government.

ýIt would also be recalled that Governor Okpebholo had, on April 30, 2025, removed three traditional rulers in Edo North Senatorial District.

ýThe affected rulers were: Umoru Inusa Umoru, the Aidonogie of South Ibie; Lukman Akemokue, the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella; and George Oshiapi Egabor, the Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom.

ýThe governor said that their removal was due to irregularities in their appointments, violations of customary succession laws and alleged involvement in kidnapping and insecurity.

ýHe subsequently reappointed Aliyu Kelvin Danesi as Aidonogie of South Ibie and appointed Michael Eshioronoya Sado as Okuokpellagbe of Okpella following his selection by the kingmakers.

ýThe appointment to the stool of Okumagbe of Uwano Kingdom was still pending at the time but has since been filled by Francis Alimikhena, a former senator who represented Edo North Senatorial District following the death of George Oshiapi Egabor.

Michael Carrick says dropping Bruno Fernandes to the bench for Manchester United’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth was a ‘pure football’ decision, dismissing suggestions that the move was punishment for the captain’s criticism of his tactics.

Fernandes was named among the substitutes for Sunday’s match at Old Trafford, days after questioning United’s passive approach out of possession during their 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League.

Carrick, under pressure after United went seven games without a win in all competitions, said his selection was based on what he believed would give the team the best chance of producing a strong performance.

‘Picking the team is always a difficult decision,’ Carrick told Sky Sports. ‘We’ve got to make what we feel is the right one for the team to try to get the performance we want.’

He added: ‘When you have options, it’s always a difficult decision. We have to make the right one for today and the team to get that performance we want.’

The United manager rejected the suggestion that Fernandes had been dropped in response to his public comments, describing the decision as a footballing judgement.

Manchester United entered the clash with seven points from their opening seven matches. Carrick is under pressure to secure a result against Bournemouth and ease speculation surrounding his future.

Fernandes had criticised United’s defensive approach after Como’s emphatic victory in Italy, raising questions about the team’s tactics at a difficult moment in the season.

The Portugal international, 32, enjoyed an outstanding campaign last season, winning multiple individual awards and setting a Premier League record with 21 assists as United finished third. His influence has been more limited this season, apart from a hat-trick against Ipswich in August.

Carrick made four changes to his starting lineup, with Matheus Cunha, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui also dropping out. Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro, Carlos Baleba and Amad Diallo came into the side.

Fernandes’ remarks followed criticism from teammate Lisandro Martínez, who had questioned whether United’s board did enough to strengthen the squad during the transfer window.

Martínez, however, was not dropped for those comments and was replaced at half-time in last weekend’s 1-1 draw against Leeds after suffering an injury. He was named among the substitutes against Bournemouth.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adamawa/Taraba Area Command, has seized smuggled goods with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N79.86 million in a series of anti-smuggling operations conducted across the two states over five weeks.

The seized items include 16,825 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, 501 cartons of foreign bar soap, 266 bags of foreign parboiled rice, second-hand clothing and a Mitsubishi Canter truck used to transport some of the contraband.

Comptroller MA Tako, the Customs Area Controller, Adamawa/Taraba Area Command, disclosed this during a press briefing at the command’s headquarters in Yola on Friday, October 23, 2026.

Tako said the seizures followed intelligence-led operations and surveillance along border communities and suspected smuggling routes, particularly around Ribadu, Sahuda, Wuro Alhaji-Maiha, Belel-Goshidan and Maiha-Mubi.

According to him, the operations were part of the service’s efforts to curb smuggling, protect the Nigerian economy and prevent the unlawful movement of prohibited goods across the country’s borders.

Giving details of the interceptions, Tako said officers raided the River Benue bank along the Ribadu axis on August 16, where they discovered 451 cartons of foreign bar soap allegedly stockpiled for smuggling. He said the suspects abandoned the goods and fled into the bush when the officers arrived.

He added that 374 jerrycans of petrol, each with a capacity of 25 litres, were intercepted along a bush path in Sahuda, near the Nigeria-Cameroon border, on August 20.

The command also intercepted a Mitsubishi Canter truck with registration number XB 566 GML along the Wuro Alhaji-Maiha axis on September 14.

The vehicle was carrying 116 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50kg, and 50 cartons of foreign soap.

In another operation on September 21, officers discovered 299 jerrycans of petrol, each containing 25 litres, along an unapproved route on the Belel-Goshidan axis. The fuel was allegedly intended to be smuggled out of the country.

Tako further disclosed that officers seized 150 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 20 bags of local maize weighing 100kg each, 11 bales of second-hand clothing and five jumbo sacks of used clothing along a bush path on the Maiha-Mubi axis on October 2.

He said the seizures were made in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and relevant provisions of the Common External Tariff, including the import prohibition list.

The controller commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the service’s management for providing the resources and logistical support needed to strengthen anti-smuggling operations.

He also praised the officers involved in the interceptions for their vigilance and commitment, urging members of the public to provide credible information about suspicious activities in their communities.

Tako called on the media to sustain public awareness campaigns on the economic and security consequences of smuggling, stressing that cooperation between security agencies and communities was essential to protecting the country’s borders and promoting economic growth.

The Lagos Commodities and Futures Exchange (LCFE), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and other capital market stakeholders have urged young Nigerians to verify investment opportunities and beware of fraudulent schemes, particularly those promoted through social media.

The warning was issued at the LCFE’s sixth Annual Financial Literacy Seminar in Lagos on October 22, held to commemorate World Investor Week 2026 under the theme, ‘Invest Smart, Stay Alert: Protecting Investors from Commodity Investment Scams.’

The seminar brought together students from secondary schools and tertiary institutions, alongside representatives of key financial market institutions, to promote financial literacy, responsible investing and awareness of investment fraud.

Representing Akin Akeredolu-Akeredolu, Managing Director, LCFE, the Head of Operations, Nkechi Obi-Chidi, urged the students to become ambassadors for Nigeria’s capital market by promoting legitimate investment opportunities and encouraging others to verify investment schemes with the SEC before committing funds.

She emphasised the importance of distinguishing regulated investment opportunities from fraudulent schemes as young Nigerians increasingly encounter financial promotions across digital platforms.

Kelechi Azubuike-Luke, Senior Manager, Financial Literacy Technical Committee, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), who represented the Commission, cautioned participants against schemes promising guaranteed profits or unusually high returns. She advised investors to confirm the registration status of capital market operators through the Commission’s official channels and avoid making investment decisions based solely on peer pressure or social media endorsements.

Speaking on behalf of the Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), Athan Ogbozor, Executive Secretary,

ASHON commended the Exchange for sustaining the financial literacy initiative.

Ogbozor urged investors to question promises of unrealistic returns and verify the regulatory status of investment operators, noting that the growing use of social media to promote investments makes investor vigilance increasingly important.

Onome Komolafe, Divisional Head, Business Services and Client Experience at the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), stressed the need for investors to understand investment products before committing their money.

She encouraged young people to exercise patience and discipline in building wealth, adding that sustainable financial growth depends on knowledge, informed decisions and a clear understanding of investment risks.

The speakers agreed that investor protection requires collective responsibility among regulators, exchanges, market operators and the investing public.

A major highlight of the seminar was the presentation of awards to winners of the financial literacy essay competition, which challenged students to examine investment scams and demonstrate their understanding of responsible investing.

At the tertiary level, Sesugh Innocent Tyokosu, a 300-level law student of Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, Benue State, emerged first, while OdunmbakuDaniel Odunayo of the Department of Economics, Caleb University, Lagos, took second place.

In the secondary school category, Enilama Jesse, a Year 11 (SSS2) student of STandT Regency International School, won first place, while Oseremen Omoyemen Oseghale of Corona Day Secondary School, Lekki, finished second.

The competition provided a platform for students to engage with investment fraud, financial responsibility and the importance of investor protection, reinforcing the role of financial education in promoting informed participation in the capital market.

LCFE said its annual financial literacy programme reflected its continued commitment to educating the public about commodity markets, investment risks and the importance of dealing with appropriately regulated market operators.

The seminar ended with a call on young and prospective investors to verify investment opportunities, question promises of quick profits and prioritise informed financial decisions over the pursuit of unrealistic returns.

The Lagos State Government has intensified disease surveillance and preparedness measures following the confirmation of an imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The state government said it had no suspected Ebola cases in Lagos at the time of its announcement, urging residents to remain calm, stay vigilant and report possible exposure promptly.

In a press statement issued by the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the government said it was strengthening surveillance, public communication and community engagement through its Directorate of Epidemiology, Biosecurity and Global Health.

It said it was also working with agencies at points of entry, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, to support early detection and response to suspected cases.

As part of the preparedness measures, the ministry conducted an assessment and engagement with airport management, Port Health Services and other aviation and public health stakeholders. Discussions focused on passenger screening, information sharing, infection prevention and control, and coordination of emergency responses.

The state government said it was expanding public awareness efforts to educate residents about Ebola symptoms, transmission and prevention.

Ebola is a severe viral disease that can be fatal. According to the ministry, transmission occurs primarily through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person who is showing symptoms, contaminated materials, or the body of someone who has died from the disease. Infection may also occur through contact with infected animals.

Symptoms can appear between two and 21 days after exposure and include fever, severe weakness, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Unexplained bleeding or bruising may occur in some cases.

The ministry warned that early symptoms can resemble malaria and other common illnesses, advising anyone who becomes unwell after possible exposure or travel from an area with active transmission to seek prompt medical assessment.

Under Lagos State’s fever-management policy, people with fever are advised to undergo a malaria rapid diagnostic test before taking antimalarial medicines. Where the result is negative, a healthcare professional should assess other possible causes and determine the appropriate treatment.

The government also urged residents to wash their hands regularly, avoid contact with the body fluids of sick people and refrain from handling potentially contaminated materials or touching sick or dead wild animals.

Travellers arriving in Nigeria, particularly from areas reporting Ebola transmission, were urged to cooperate with Port Health Services, provide accurate travel and health information when requested, and follow official public health guidance.

The ministry advised anyone who develops symptoms during travel or after arrival to notify appropriate health personnel promptly and seek guidance before visiting a healthcare facility.

Residents who suspect they have been exposed to Ebola, especially through contact with a suspected or confirmed case, were advised to contact public health authorities before visiting a healthcare facility.

The state government listed 112 and 767 as emergency numbers for reporting concerns in Lagos. It also provided the number 0802 316 9485 for the Directorate of Epidemiology, Biosecurity and Global Health at the Lagos State Ministry of Health.

The government said it would continue to monitor developments, strengthen surveillance and coordinate with relevant agencies, while providing updates as necessary. It urged residents to rely on official announcements rather than rumours.

Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers State, has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work at the Creek Road Market in Port Harcourt, assuring that it will be completed by January 2027.

A statement by Onwuka Nzeshi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, on Friday said Fubara stated this on Friday during an inspection visit to the project site.

Fubara said the visit was prompted by his meeting with SETRACO, the construction firm, handling the resurfacing of roads in the old Port Harcourt Township.

He said SETRACO had identified the Creek Road axis as a major cause of delay in its road rehabilitation works, as traders have virtually taken over the road, making it difficult for the contractor to work.

The governor noted that relocating the traders to the new market remained the only solution to freeing the road for the resurfacing work to be done successfully.

Despite the challenges encountered since the commencement of the project, Fubara said he was impressed with what he saw on site, commending the contractor for the quality of the job done so far.

He disclosed that the first phase of the market comprises about 700 stalls and shops, covering both wet and dry sections, which he said is sufficient to accommodate most of the women trading along Creek Road and ultimately restore free flow of traffic along the route.

The governor assured the contractor handling the market project that the State Government will play its part to ensure the project continues as agreed, including addressing the issue of funding in order to guarantee its timely delivery.

Speaking on the benefits of the market, Fubara said the project goes beyond providing trading spaces, as it is also aimed at restoring sanity, decency and a healthy environment in the Old Port Harcourt Township, which he described as home to many aged people and ‘aborigines’ of the city.

He lamented that the situation of the old market forced traders onto the streets, turning the Creek Road and adjoining streets into an open market.

Governor Fubara observed that the current situation of trading along the streets could create serious environmental and health hazards, noting that many diseases are caused by overcrowding, dirt and uncleanliness.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of Rivers people, stressing that he is happy not just as head of the current administration, but as a citizen of the State to see a project that will return the old Port Harcourt Township to its cherished status as a clean and orderly city.

The Institute of Strategic Management Nigeria (Chartered) (ISMNC) in Rivers State is set to build itself into a legacy that members will proudly serve today and future generations will proudly inherit.

Patterson Ogon, the newly inaugurated chairman of the Rivers State Chapter, set the agenda for the new executive committee during a strategic meeting in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

The meeting served as an inaugural meeting, swearing-in ceremony and handover of administrative affairs of the institute.

ISMNC is a non-governmental, non-profit, independent professional, learning and research organisation with an extensive range of courses in Strategic Management, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Governance, and Digital Innovation that sets the pace for executive training and professional development.

Founded in 2003, and chartered in 2023, the Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria (Chartered) has been described as Africa’s premier institute for strategy crafting.

It has a mission to advance and promote knowledge and skills in the practice of strategic management, strategic leadership, strategic entrepreneurship, and governance through research, publications, education, training, certification, induction and regulation of students and members.

Its vision is to be a world-class professional body, a pan-African best reference in strategic management, and a key player in positioning Nigeria and Africa for leadership in the global society.

Ogon, who is the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was elected as the chairman of the Rivers State Chapter on July 23, 2026 at the Annual General Meeting of the institute in Lagos.

Strategic management is about employing a strategic framework to achieve both short-term and long-term business objectives consistently and efficiently.

While it may look easy on the surface, the actual execution of strategic management can easily result in confusion, particularly when businesses become large and complex.

The Brighton School of Business and Management, says that strategic management is where the resources available to an organisation are brought together.

The resources which include operations, marketing, research and development and other organisational functions are all analysed to best determine how they can be used to reach business goals.

Through strategic management, all company staff are made to have a clear understanding of what their roles will be for the goals of the organisation to be achieved.

And, Ogon is determined to build on the foundations laid by previous administrations and strengthen the institute’s contribution to professional development and strategic leadership within his two-year tenure.

He assured that his administration would position the chapter as a platform for professional excellence, strategic thinking, ethical leadership, intellectual development, collaboration and measurable impact, stressing that membership must provide meaningful opportunities for learning, contribution, networking, mentorship and professional growth.

‘Distinguished colleagues, leadership of a professional body is not simply about occupying an office; it is about accepting responsibility for people, institutions and the future.

‘ISMNC brings together professionals from diverse disciplines, sectors and areas of expertise. This diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and we must create an environment where knowledge is shared, ideas are exchanged, professionals collaborate and expertise is translated into meaningful value,’ he stated.

Declaring that strategy must translate into practical outcomes, Ogon pledged to ensure that every programme and initiative undertaken by the chapter has clear objectives, creates demonstrable value and delivers measurable results through a culture of planning, implementation, evaluation and continuous improvement.

He identified continuous professional development as a major priority, noting that technological advancement, artificial intelligence, changing economic realities and evolving leadership expectations were reshaping the professional environment and requiring members to remain relevant and adaptable.

To address these emerging challenges, Ogon promised to promote seminars, workshops, knowledge-sharing and intellectual engagements while strengthening mentorship and intergenerational learning by combining the experience of established professionals with the fresh perspectives, technological awareness and innovative ideas of younger members.

He said: ‘The professional environment is changing rapidly. Technology, artificial intelligence, economic realities and changing leadership expectations are reshaping the workplace.

‘As a professional Institute, we must remain relevant. We will encourage continuous professional development, knowledge-sharing, seminars, workshops and intellectual engagements that equip our members to respond effectively to emerging challenges.

‘We will also strengthen mentorship and intergenerational learning. Our experienced professionals have valuable knowledge to transfer, while our younger professionals bring fresh perspectives, technology awareness and innovation.

When these strengths come together, the Institute becomes stronger.’

On collaboration and member engagement, he called for stronger relationships among members, state chapters, regional structures and the national leadership, urging members to contribute their ideas, expertise and professional opportunities to advance the Institute’s collective interests.

He also pledged to uphold transparency, accountability and professional ethics by operating within the institute’s established framework, maintaining responsible communication with national structures and ensuring that resources entrusted to the chapter were managed prudently in the interests of its members.

‘We also intend to strengthen collaboration among members, state chapters, regional structures and the National leadership.

We must move beyond simply attending meetings to actively participating in the development of the Institute.

‘If you have an idea, bring it forward. If you have expertise, share it. If you have an opportunity that can benefit the Institute, make it available. The strength of this chapter will ultimately depend on the collective commitment of its members,’ he said.

Ogon emphasised that the institute must remain greater than any individual office holder, and urged members of his executive to serve with humility, integrity and accountability while preserving existing achievements, improving areas requiring attention and creating new opportunities for institutional growth.

He pledged good governance, transparency, accountability and professional ethics as essential parts of his administration.

Ogon declared: ‘As we assume office, we recognise that good governance, transparency, accountability and professional ethics are essential.

‘We will operate within the established framework of the Institute, communicate responsibly with the relevant national structures and ensure that resources entrusted to us are managed in the best interest of the chapter and its members.

Our institution must always be greater than any individual office holder.’

Continuing, he stated: ‘Distinguished colleagues, the world around us is changing rapidly. Technology is transforming industries, artificial intelligence is reshaping professional practice, and leadership expectations are becoming increasingly demanding. In such an environment, strategic thinking is not an option; it is an imperative.

‘today marks the beginning of a new chapter for ISMNC Rivers State. As chairman, I make this commitment: We will lead with purpose. We will serve with integrity. We will promote knowledge. We will develop people. We will encourage collaboration. We will pursue measurable results. And we will place the interests of the Institute above personal interests. I invite every member to join us in this journey.

‘Let us build an ISMNC Rivers State Chapter that reflects the competence of its members, the excellence of its professionals and the strategic value of the Institute.

‘Let us build an institution that we will be proud to serve today and that future generations will be proud to inherit.’

Ogon expressed appreciation to the outgoing leadership for their service and contribution to the development of the chapter and acknowledged their achievements.

He also appreciated the National President and Chairman-in-Council, the Registrar/CEO, the Governing Board, Board of Fellows, National Executive Council, committee chairmen, state chapter chairmen, distinguished members and all our guests for honouring the occasion.

Inaugurating the Rivers State Chapter, Ndudi Alex Enebeli, National President and Chairman-in-Council of ISMNC, welcomed the leadership transition, describing the chapter as particularly significant to him and emphasizing that incoming executives must build on the achievements and foundations established by their predecessors.

Enebeli expressed concern over growing apathy among members of professional bodies in Rivers State and challenged the new executive to develop effective strategies to re-engage members and encourage greater participation in the Institute’s activities.

He urged members to embrace the Institute as a platform for continuous learning and professional development rather than participating only when individual programmes offered an immediate personal benefit, encouraging them to take advantage of its capacity-building opportunities to improve themselves and contribute more effectively to society.

Identifying communication, cooperation and collaboration as three essential elements of successful leadership and teamwork, he commended the outgoing executive for its contributions, urged its members to mentor and support the new leadership, and encouraged the chapter to harness its members’ expertise to strengthen professional development outcomes.

Enebeli also expressed satisfaction with the Rivers State Chapter’s contribution to the Institute’s national leadership, noting that it had produced the national president and had been recognised as the Institute’s best-performing chapter in successive periods.

Nathan Excellence, the immediate past chairman of the chapter, thanked his executive committee for its support during approximately two years in office, declaring that the administration was handing over a more structured institute with improved capacity to deliver while expressing confidence that the new executive would build on the foundation laid by its predecessor.