₦airaland Forum

INSECURITY: Don't Give Up on Tinubu, Ojodu LCDA Chairman Rallies APC Members Ahead 2027 Presidential Election

Honourable David Odunmbaku,the Chairman of Ojodu Local Council Development Area, LCDA has urged members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, not to give up on the administration of President Bola Tinubu in the face of insecurity in the country.

While addressing party members in Ward E as part of ongoing party meeting across six wards in the council, Odunmbaku acknowledged that the country is facing security challenges but assured them that President Bola Tinubu is taking all measures to solve it inspite of the fact that the he met the challenges on ground before he assumed office

He urged them not to give up on Tinubu's administration by voting for the party in the 2027 presidential election noting that the government has their interest at heart.

“We just finished our party primaries but the biggest election is coming next year which is the presidential election. We all know we are going through difficult times like insecurity which is a serious one. Some people are blaming President Bola Tinubu for it and accusing him of doing nothing to stop it.

I want to let you know that the president has put in place machineries to address this issue. He is working on creating a state police. He has also improved the welfare of the police and the soldiers. The American government is also assisting the Nigerian government to fight the insecurity.

I want to assure you that the government is there for you so don't give up. Vote for the party in the next year's election,” Odunmbaku urges.

As part of measures to ensure safety within the council, Odunmbaku also met with security agencies in his office including the police, the DSS, the civil defense corps and the legionnaires.

He charged them on professionalism, urging them to assist the government in fighting the menace of drug abuse, cultism and other vices within the community.velopment Area (LCDA), Hon. David Odunmbaku, has urged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) not to lose faith in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu despite the security challenges confronting the nation.

Speaking during a meeting with party members in Ward E as part of ongoing engagements across the six wards of the council, Odunmbaku acknowledged the concerns of Nigerians over insecurity but maintained that the Federal Government is taking deliberate steps to address the situation.

According to him, President Tinubu inherited longstanding security challenges and has continued to strengthen the nation's security architecture through improved funding, enhanced welfare for security personnel, and strategic collaboration with local and international partners.

"We have just concluded our party primaries, but our attention must now turn to the bigger task ahead, which is the 2027 Presidential Election.

"We are all aware of the security challenges facing our country today. Some people blame President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and claim that he is not doing enough. However, it is important to remember that these challenges did not begin with his administration.

"The President has continued to invest in our security agencies, improve the welfare of our soldiers and police officers, and support ongoing efforts to strengthen community-based policing and other security initiatives. Nigeria is also working with international partners to enhance its security capabilities.

"I want to assure you that this government has the interest of Nigerians at heart. We must remain steadfast, support our party, and continue to work together for a safer and more prosperous Nigeria. Do not give up on President Tinubu or the APC," Odunmbaku said.

As part of efforts to strengthen security within Ojodu LCDA, the Chairman also held a strategic meeting with representatives of various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigerian Legion.

He charged the security agencies to maintain professionalism and intensify efforts in combating criminal activities, particularly drug abuse, cultism, and other social vices affecting the community.

Odunmbaku reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to supporting security agencies and ensuring the safety of residents across the council area.

Why many Nigerian businesses struggle to get customers online — Wetinuneed Founder


As competition continues to grow across Nigeria’s business space, many small business owners are still asking the same question: How can I get more customers for my business?

From fashion brands and restaurants to logistics companies, beauty businesses, artisans, and service providers, many entrepreneurs say getting customers has become one of their biggest challenges.

According to business discovery platform WETINUNEED, the issue is often not the quality of products or services, but visibility.

Speaking on the growing importance of online discoverability, founder Buchi Madiebo explained that many businesses are still struggling because customers simply cannot find them easily online.

“A lot of businesses are good at what they do, but people don’t know they exist,” she said. “Today, customers search online before making decisions. If your business is difficult to find, you are already losing potential sales.”

She noted that many SMEs depend only on social media platforms where visibility changes constantly because of algorithms and crowded competition.

“Just posting on Instagram or Facebook is no longer enough,” Buchi explained. “Businesses now need structured visibility that makes them easier to discover, trust, and contact.”

According to her, this growing challenge inspired the creation of WETINUNEED, a Nigerian business directory and discovery platform designed to help businesses improve their online presence and connect with more customers.

The platform allows businesses to create dedicated pages where they can showcase products and services while also appearing in different sections including jobs, property, events, and shopping categories.

For an annual registration fee of ₦9,900, businesses receive access to multiple features aimed at improving visibility and customer engagement online.

Buchi said the goal is to provide SMEs with a more affordable alternative to expensive advertising while helping them stay visible in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy.

“The reality is simple,” she added. “Customers cannot patronise a business they cannot find.”

Industry observers say more Nigerians now rely heavily on online searches before choosing businesses, making discoverability one of the biggest factors affecting modern business growth.

With digital commerce continuing to expand across the country, platforms focused on helping customers easily find trusted businesses may become increasingly important for Nigerian SMEs looking to grow sustainably.

Faleke, Odunmbaku lead voters in Ojodu LCDA as Lagos APC affirms Tinubu's candidacy

The Member, House of Representatives representing Ikeja Constituency, Hon. James Faleke,and the Executive Chairman of Ojodu LCDA, Hon. Segun Odunmbaku, on Saturday led party leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to vote in the presidential primaries.

They were joined by top APC leader and a member of the Lagos Governance Advisory Council, GAC, Cardinal James Odunmbaku.

The chairman voted in his Ward B, Ojodu Primary School, Ikeja, accompanied by party members and leaders within the council.

Speaking after casting his vote, Hon. Odunmbaku commended party members for their peaceful conduct, unity and commitment to democratic values. He praised the leaders present for their dedication to strengthening the party at the grassroots.

The Council Chairman also reaffirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reelection, stating that the President deserves another term owing to his bold reforms, visionary leadership and commitment to national development and economic stability.

It is recalled that the party had chosen President Bola Tinubu as its sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

APC governorship primaries: Ojodu council chair votes, hails massive voters turnout

Honourable David Odunmbaku, the Chairman , Ojodu Local Council Development on Thursday led voters in the council to vote in the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primaries held across Lagos State.

Odunmbaku voted in his Ward B Ojodu Primary School ward accompanied by his Vice, Funmilayo Layeni and party faithful.

After casting his vote, Odunmbaku also visited other voting centres in Ward F, Estate Primary School, Oluwole Ogba, and Ward G, Front of Powerline Health Centre, Oke-Ira.

The chairman commended party members for coming out en masse to vote in the primary.

It is recalled that the Lagos State chapter of the APC had chosen the deputy governor, Obafemi Hamzat as its consensus candidate.

Odunmbaku urges youth to back Tinubu's reforms, participate actively in politics


The chairman Ojodu LCDA, Hon. David Odunmbaku, has urged youths to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu noting that the reforms by the president are already yielding positive results.

He also charged them to participate actively in politics so as to contribute their quota to the development of Nigeria.

Odunmbaku spoke when the National Youth Council of Nigeria,NYCN, Lagos Chapter led by its chairman, Olalekan Adigun paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

The chairman told the youths that rather than sit on the fence and criticize government policies, they have the opportunity to join politics and be agents of change.

He said President Bola Tinubu had put in place policies that are beneficial to youths such as the NELFUND and removal of the fuel subsidy and Nigerians are already feeling the positive impact of those policies.

Odunmbaku further told the youths that he joined politics to contribute to the positive change in Nigeria therefore they also should take active interest in governance.

“As youths, you need to reposition yourself. We are in the era of social media so you have the opportunity to claim what is rightfully yours. In my whole life, I have not seen the kind of policies the current president is implementing and I salute him for his bravery . Look at the impact of the fuel subsidy removal. At Ojodu LCDA, we are renovating five primary health centres and we are going to commission three at the same time.

Over 60% of our population are youths. Which president has done NELFUND like President Tinubu is doing? As youths, don't be perturbed, be firm with your voices and conviction because if we don't correct it, no one will correct it for us. We should get the message of our president to other youths. He has enacted several policies and programmes.

Believe in the institution that we have and keep supporting the policies of the President. At Ojodu LCDA, we will keep supporting youth initiatives and NYCN,” Odunmbaku assured the council.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Lagos chapter of NYCN, Olalekan Adigun commended Odunmbaku for changing positively the way governance is run at the grassroots.

He said the council was in Ojodu to introduce its Back2Street initiative to the chairman with focus on sensitising the youth against drug abuse, cultism and enlightened them on voter education.

Adigun commended Odunmbaku for his empowerment programmes noting that out of the other 56 local governments they had visited, Ojodu LCDA stands out as the best in terms of the performance of the chairman.

“One thing that stands you out from a lot of grassroots administrators is that you invested heavily in lifting people out of poverty. You have empowered youth in areas you know they have capacity. You have done a lot of empowerment programmes. The news is out there of your good performances in Ojodu LCDA and we commend you for all you are doing,” Adigun said

APC primaries: Ojodu LCDA chair visits voting centres, calls for peaceful process

Hon. David Odunmbaku, the chairman Ojodu LCDA on Saturday visited voting centres for the All Progressives Congress, APC, direct primaries and called on delegates to be peaceful as they cast their votes.

The APC primaries commenced nationwide on Saturday with the House of Representatives as party members cast their votes to decide who will represent them in the general elections.


Some of the centers Odunmbaku visited were Ward B, Ojodu Primary School, Ojodu, Ward F, Estate Primary School, Oluwole Ogba and Ward G, Front of Powerline Health Centre, Powerline, Oke-Ira.

He urged them to cast their votes without fear and work for the victory of the party in the general elections.

NULASS-LASU unveils 3-Day ELC 5.0 on lawmaking, heritage


The 11th National Union of Lagos State Students, NULASS, LASU Students Parliamentary Council, SPC, on Monday unveiled ‘Eko Legislative Conference 5.0 (ELC 5.0) initiative to be held from Monday April 4 to Wednesday April 6, 2026.

The conference themed “Eko as Legacy: Lawmaking, Leadership, and the Preservation of Cultural Heritage’ will focus on the importance of cultural consciousness in leadership as well as protection and preservation of heritage.

At a briefing to announce the conference, the Speaker of the Council, Mustapha Ishola, said the three-day event will showcase the Lagos State richness, pride, and its cultural identity.

“ It is our conviction that leadership without identity is empty, and governance without cultural consciousness is incomplete. Lagos is not just a city, it is a legacy and that legacy must be preserved, projected, and protected by the next generation of leaders.Youth identity matters, heritage must be visible, not forgotten,” Mustapha said

Some of the activities lined up for the conference include an awareness walk, Eko Legislative Debate and discussions among stakeholders such as policymakers, royal fathers and student leaders on the third day of the event.

While acknowledging the commitment of Lagos State government in supporting students financially through bursary and scholarship programmes, he expressed disappointment at the delay and inconsistency by the government in disbursing the bursary.

Ishola noted that many students are finding it difficult to register for and access the bursary which has led to low participation and, in some cases, exclusion of eligible beneficiaries.

He also lamented limited access and engagement between student representatives and government authorities and urged the government to improve efficiency and transparency in bursary disbursement and ensure stronger welfarism policies for Lagos State students.

“Responsible governance thrives on access, dialogue, and responsiveness.
As student parliamentarians, we are not adversaries, we are partners in progress but partnership must be felt, not assumed,” he noted.

Lagos, California,Forge Historic Sister-State Partnership


Lagos State government has forged a
sister-state relationship with the California State Assembly, United States through the Assembly Concurrent Resolution 129 (ACR 129)

The resolution was sponsored by Assembly member, Matt Haney, and
unveiled at the California/Africa Climate and Economic Forum 2026, establishing one of the most significant Africa–California diplomatic ties in recent history.

At the gathering were government officials, business leaders, and Nigerian diaspora representatives.

Accepting the resolution on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs, ESV Jermaine Sanwo-Olu,

Speaking on the resolution, Jermaine said both Lagos State and the state of California will benefit from the relationship.

"This is more than a ceremonial agreement, it is a structured framework for action across climate resilience, transportation, infrastructure, innovation, and economic development. Both regions have much to gain, and we intend to move quickly."

He noted that the partnership directly supports Governor Sanwo-Olu's THEMES + Agenda, strengthening Lagos' global footprint and creating new channels for sustainable growth.

It will position Lagos as a globally connected city open to trade, innovation, and shared solutions to global challenges, while also reinforcing Nigeria's expanding role in international cooperation driven increasingly by the ambition and influence of its diaspora community worldwide.

Key stakeholders in the partnership are the Lagos and Nigerian diaspora who will serve as connectors for investment, knowledge transfer, and long-term trust-building between both regions.

Jermaine thanked California Secretary of Transportation,Toks Omishakin for his role in advancing the relationship.

As both regions face shared pressures around climate change, urbanization, and economic transformation, this partnership offers a meaningful model for South-to-North collaboration built on mutual respect and tangible outcomes

Speaking on the opportunities the partnership would create for both parties, California Transportation Secretary. Toks Omishakin, said it will advance ‘clean mobility, climate innovation, economic growth and cultural exchange between two regions defined by creativity and ambition’

"The Lagos–California Sister-State Resolution builds on the strong partnership Governor Newsom has forged between California and Nigeria and reflects our shared commitment to practical, people-centered progress.

Through deepening ties with Lagos and the leadership of Assembly member Haney, we are establishing new opportunities to advance clean mobility, climate innovation, economic growth and cultural exchange between two regions defined by creativity and ambition.”

Odunmbaku graduates 150 Ojodu youths in digital skills training


150 Ojodu youths on Thursday graduated from the Ojodu Local Council Development Area, LCDA digital skills training

The graduates were trained in digital literacy, social media and digital marketing, cloud computing, cyber security awareness, Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence. The training was conducted both physically and virtually.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, held at the council secretariat, Oke-Ira, Powerline, the council chairman, Hon. David Odunmbaku described the training as a ‘testament to the power of knowledge, and a significant milestone in our collective journey towards a digitally empowered future.’

He told the graduates that the training has armed them with necessary tools to navigate and dominate the 4th industrial revolution which are digital skills.

The chairman noted that the training curriculum tagged ‘Building Blocks of Future’ was designed to help the graduates meet up with the global trend in the digital world and create job opportunities for them.

Odunmbaku added that while past training focused on basic computer appreciation, the current training focuses on specialization and how to monetize the internet and secure it.

Under his HEYS Reloaded agenda, Odunmbaku said that his administration had trained 2,631 primary and 2,168 secondary school pupils in digital skills, upgraded the council’s ICT centre at Sogunro into a modern information technology, upgraded the council’s official website, built Ojodu Works App, gave out 40 laptops to past graduates of digital skills, launched a digital platform code named Electronic Medical Records, EMR, which allows residents to make use of any of Public Health Centres within the council area.

He charged the graduates to be ambassadors of digital skills training as they now have the skills to start a freelance career in digital marketing.

“ You walk out here with the confidence to pitch a client. It means you understand the risks of the cloud and can protect a business. It means you can look at a problem and think, “Is there an IoT or AI solution for this. You all are now the ambassadors of this program. Go out there and globalize your skills. Fix the broken systems. Innovative. Remember, technology is just a tool; the real power lies in the mind of the user,” he said.

One of the training partners, the Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Chartered IT Professionals, ICITP, South Africa, Seun Adegelu told the graduates that with their training , they can now compete with their counterparts in other parts of the world with the knowledge they have acquired.

He commended Odunmbaku for organizing the training and called on more youths to take part in the training.

Highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of laptops to five best graduating students; Adedeji Elizabeth, Adetunji Rashidat, Olanrewaju Babalola and Segbedji Fernando who will later continue their training in South Africa.

On behalf of other graduates, Adetunji Rashidat thanked Odunmbaku for the training noting that it will ‘upgrade our lives.”

“It has added to my existing skills, it is an eye opener. The skill will make us go global. As a teacher, it will improve my work performance. This is an additional skill that will fetch us additional money. When we talk about digital skills, Ojodu LCDA is the best,” Adetunji said.

Odunmbaku charges Ojodu residents on cleaner environment as monthly sanitation begins April 25

The Chairman, Ojodu Local Council Development Area, David Odunmbaku has charged Ojodu residents on keeping their environments clean as the Lagos monthly sanitation returns this weekend April 25.

It is recalled that Lagos State governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had, in March, announced that the suspended month end sanitation will resume this month. The governor had said that the decision to bring back the exercise was as a result of refuse littering every part of the state and the need to make the state cleaner.

He, however, said unlike in the past when there were movement restrictions during the hours of the exercise, the returned sanitation would be a voluntary one between the hours of 6:30 and 8:30am and Lagosians would be able to move freely.

While urging residents to comply, Odunmbaku charged them to participate fully in it, describing it as a ‘collective responsibility.’

“I am pleased to inform all Ojodu LCDA Community that the monthly environmental sanitation exercise will resume effective Saturday, 25th April 2026, holding on the last Saturday of every month from 6:30AM to 8:30 AM.

During this period, residents are enjoined to clean their surroundings, clear drainage channels in their frontages, and dispose of waste properly as a civic responsibility. This exercise is a collective responsibility and a vital part of our commitment to a cleaner, healthier, and flood-resilient Ojodu LCDA and it shall be backed with the full enforcement weight of the Lagos State Government,” Odunmbaku said.

Ogun, Artnovation Showcase Cultural Partnership at Milan Design Week 2026


Ogun State government, in partnership with Artnovation, is set to promote and showcase African culture on the international stage at the Milan Design Week in Italy from April 22 to 26.

Tagged ‘The Rock That Remembers’, the fashion and exhibition event allows Ogun State to showcase its rich heritage, tourism potential, and investment opportunities, especially through Olumo Rock.

Speaking at the official launch of the Artnovation: AfroItalian Renaissance (AAR) exhibition at the Italian Consulate in Lagos, Ogun State governor Dapo Abiodun said the partnership with Artnovation is a strategic platform to grow Ogun State’s creative economy and boost cultural and economic ties with the Italian government.

“We reaffirmed our commitment to using creativity to drive economic growth, create jobs, boost tourism, and ensure sustainable revenue, building on our support for arts, culture, and local enterprises such as Adire and the renewal of Olumo Rock. With our partnership with the Italian Consulate in Lagos and the Creative Youth Community Development Initiative (CYCDI), Ogun State is positioned to lead Nigeria’s creative economy,” Abiodun said.

He further emphasised that Ogun State's showcase at Milan Design Week 2026 will boost global visibility, expand trade, and strengthen collaboration with Italy.

Foluke Michael, Chief Curator at Artnovation, announces an exclusive VIP screening on April 22, 2026, at Collegiate Milano Bovisa, Piazza Emilio Alfieri 5, Milan, with the exhibition running April 23–26.

Foluke further said a key highlight of the programme is the special event, ‘From the Rock to the World,’ taking place on April 23 at 4:00 PM. She added that the exhibition will feature five paintings, five fashion installations, hand-painted textures, and indigenous Abeokuta textiles, such as adire and Milanese lace. Artnovation:

“We are beginning a conversation that will spur global action, and we are proud to start with Nigeria and Italy. Artnovation connects storytelling, art, fashion, and design to create new pathways for innovation, partnership, and trade. By bridging Olumo Rock and Duomo di Milano, the European Renaissance with African heritage, we are creating a new spark, one that transforms culture into economic opportunity. The exhibition, Through this fusion of natural and architectural monuments, explores how landscapes and structures preserve memory, shape identity, and inspire contemporary design. It offers a world-class setting for this landmark initiative, bringing together creators, institutions, and global audiences in a shared vision of the future,” Foluke said.

Other partners in the event are Collegiate Milan Bovisa and Università LUM-School of Management.

Sanwo-Olu, stakeholders hail First responders as 'silent heroes ' at inaugural health conference

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday hailed First Responders in the health and safety agencies in the state as ‘silent heroes ‘ for their roles in quick response to emergencies in the state.

Sanwo-Olu represented by Mrs Olayemi Oke-Osanyintolu spoke alongside others at the inaugural two-day Lagos State Health Professionals Development Conference organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations held in Lagos with the theme ‘ Excellence, Resilience and Readiness: Best Practices in Health Support for First Responders.

The First Lady noted that emergency first responders: put their lives at risk for the safety and wellbeing of others adding that there is need for the government to strengthen their capacity and improve their welfare.

“First responders are indeed the silent heroes of our society. They are the first to arrive in emergencies, often placing themselves in harm’s way to save lives, preserve property, and restore hope. Your role transcends professional duty; it is deeply humanitarian and essential to the fabric of our society.
This conference is a strategic step towards enhancing your professional competence and ensuring that you are adequately equipped, physically, mentally, and emotionally, to carry out your responsibilities effectively,” sgs said.

She further said with the rising population of Lagos, there is need for continuous investment in training, capacity building, and the overall welfare of first responders.

Sanwo-Olu commended the Ministry for organizing the conference noting that it aligns with the vision of the Lagos State government to prioritise health, safety, and resilience across all sectors.

The Commissioner, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde, said the conference was organised to strengthen the clinical capacity, preparedness, and resilience of the first responders.

He also noted that the government should enhance the quality of medical support provided to those engaged in disaster response, and other emergency operations across the State through improved health support systems as they often operate in high-risk, unpredictable environments.
Effective emergency response requires more than individual competence; it demands strong systems, clear protocols, efficient communication channels, and sustained inter-agency cooperation.

He assured of government support to initiatives that enhance the welfare, safety, and effectiveness of its workforce.

In her address, the Medical Director, Lagos State First Responders Medical Clinics, Dr. Funmi Shokunbi said first responders are the backbone of the state’s health workforce.

“ They are the human face of comfort, where others see safety, they run to lifeline. They care for the caregivers,” she said.

She said the conference would help to build a ‘resilient and sustainable emergency system as strong as the health of those who depend on it.’

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi said the government will pay attention to the mental health of first responders while the Chairman,Lagos House of Assembly Committee on Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Rauf Age-Sulaimon assured them that government is ready to provide for their needs with ‘laws and finance ‘

The Lagos Head of Service, Olabode Agoro represented by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission, LASIEC, Abdulwasiu Fashola noted that the role of first responders remains critical to the effectiveness of the state’s emergency system.’

Odunmbaku's wife calls for equal opportunities for women on International Women's Day


The wife of the chairman, Ojodu Local Council Development Area who is also the chairman, Lagos State Council Chairmen’s Wives Association, LASCCWA, Abimbola Odunmbaku, has advocated for women to be given equal opportunity with their male counterparts in leadership roles as well as be empowered economically to be able to contribute their quota to the development of Lagos State and Nigeria in general.

Odunmbaku spoke when she led other women leaders from the council including the Vice Chairman, Funmilayo Layeni to join the First Lady of Lagos State,Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, to mark the International Women's Day, IWD, at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos Island.

Others at the occasion were the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, party leaders, the state executive members, women society groups, among others.

Abimbola said building a progressive society requires women's participation especially in politics adding that the government should go beyond paying lip service to protecting women's rights but take bold action to ensure such rights are secured.

She also stressed that the commemoration of International Women’s Day should inspire meaningful change both in women , government and other institutions rather than symbolic gestures.

She lamented that women are increasingly becoming victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse and called on civil society groups and government institutions to ensure women's dignities are protected.

Mrs Odunmbaku further said that several women have distinguished themselves in leadership roles both locally and internationally and called on Nigerian women to use the occasion of the International Women's Day to re-energise themselves to participate actively in politics.

She noted that empowering women economically would improve their confidence and give them financial independence to be able to build sustainable businesses and contribute to the growth of the nation.

She cited various women empowerment programmes that have been initiated by her husband's administration in Ojodu LCDA as examples of ways the government can support women’s growth.

“Empowering women economically means you are empowering a nation. When you build a woman financially , you are building a progressive society. Women should not be relegated to the background but be given more roles in government so we can contribute our quota to the development of the nation, “ Abimbola said.

She commended Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu for her leadership roles which she said has served as motivation for other women in the state, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, for several empowerment programmes her ministry has initiated for women.

Others in the entourage of the Ojodu First Lady were the Councilor Ward E, Oluwabukola Ademoyegun, the Ojodu LCDA APC woman leader, Bukky Badmus, and Councillor ward B, Awolala Esther.

Politics over, work has started, Odunmbaku charges new Supervisors, SAs

The Chairman, Ojodu Local Council Development Area, LCDA, Hon. Segun David Odunmbaku on Tuesday sworn-in the newly appointed 21 council supervisors and special advisers charging them to work for the progress of the council, the community and the party.

At the brief swearing-in ceremony inside the chairman’s office, Odunmbaku told the new appointees that the council and his administration needs their cooperation and commitment.

He reminded them that the time to play politics has ended, noting now is the time for work. He also told them to be loyal to the party and his administration and work for the progress of the council.

“To the new supervisors, the community needs you. This is time to work, not to play politics. You must show you can add value to the community and administration.because people are taking records of what we are doing,” he said

He added: ‘ Nobody is bigger than our party because the party is supreme and there's a lot for us to achieve. Politics has ended, work has started. This is the moment to cherish for you. Ojodu LCDA is home. I always look out for everybody so there's nothing to fear. The party is supreme.”

The Vice Chairman, Ojodu LCDA, Funmilayo Layeni commended the chairman for his ‘large and good heart.’ She also charged the appointees on loyalty to the administration and the party.

“We are 100% behind and beside you. I commend you for allowing peace to rain.
As new appointees, you are coming to this local.government not to divide us but to unite us,” she said.

Assistant Treasurer, Lagos State APC, Oludele Sonola also charged them to show the spirit of unity and cooperate with the chairman. He said Odunmbaku has been rated third most performing chairman out of the 57 council chairmen in Lagos State

Speaking on behalf of other new appointees, Femi Fadeyi thanked Odunmbaku for his fatherly role in Ojodu.

“You have considered few of us among all the people in Ojodu to be part of your administration which means you saw something in us. We are ready to move Ojodu forward,” he promised.

The new appointees are Alaba Adekunle, Christianah Oluwadamilola Fayoyin, Omobola Faola, Taiwo Tifase, Apampa Lukman, Lekan Peters, Lanre Shotomi , Lateef Akanbi, Tolu Dada, Adedapo Adeoye Ayannniyi, and Olalekan Oyejide.

Others are Funke Akinwale, Foluke Adams, Femi Fadeyi, Femi Olatunji, Omolade Omolabi, Orungbemila Folayomi, Prince Adeniji Adele, Rasheed Aro, Adebowale Laide and Olatunbosun Seye Oyekan.

Lagos govt praises Odunmbaku for outstanding achievements in Ojodu LCDA


Lagos State government has commended the chairman, Ojodu Local Council Development Area, Olusegun Odunmbaku for his administration’s laudable projects and achievements.

Speaking at the 50th birthday celebration of Odunmbaku held in Lagos, the Chief of Staff to Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mr. Tayo Ayinde said Odunmbaku has proven himself to be one of the best council chairmen in Lagos State due to.his performance. He added that his performance has not gone unnoticed by the governor and the state in general.

“ David Olusegun Odunmbaku is one of the best local government chairmen in Lagos State and the governor is very proud of you,” Ayinde said

He urged him not to relent noting that his impactful grassroots record will be an example for others to follow.

At the celebration were council chairmen, Lagos government officials among others

Lagos Traffic Radio kicks off 2025 departmental in-house training programme



Lagos Traffic Radio, 96.1FM has been commended for its consistent role as a reliable information hub, not only in traffic reportage but also in promoting safety awareness, environmental consciousness and cultural values for residents of Lagos State as it kicks off In-House training for members of staff.

In a statement by the station’s Deputy Director, News & Current Affairs, Adeola Akindele, the commendation was given by the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, at the official flag-off of the 2025 Lagos Traffic Radio In-House Training Programme, themed “Empowering Excellence: Building Capacity for a Greater Lagos.” The Commissioner was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olarenwaju Bajulaye.

According to Omotoso, the theme of the training reflects the state government’s commitment to excellence through deliberate investment in human capital.

“The theme of this training is apt and timely. It captures a fundamental truth that excellence does not happen by chance; it is cultivated and nurtured through deliberate capacity building and a continuous quest for improvement,” he said.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s support for professional development initiatives across its agencies, noting that capacity building remains central to effective public service delivery.

“The Ministry of Information and Strategy remains committed to supporting all its agencies in initiatives that promote growth, innovation and institutional development,” Omotoso added.

Omotoso also commended members of staff of the station for their dedication and creativity, urging them to sustain high standards in their service to the public.

“I commend the consistency, creativity and dedication of the staff of Lagos Traffic Radio. I encourage you to embrace innovation, teamwork and strategic communication to meet the growing demands of modern public service,” he said.

In his welcome address, the General Manager, Lagos Traffic Radio, 96.1FM, Mr. Tayo Akanle, said the in-House training programme was designed to strengthen both individual and collective performance within the organisation.

“This training programme has been carefully designed to build individual capacity, strengthen teamwork and reinforce our institutional values of discipline, integrity, accountability and collaboration,” Akanle stated.

He emphasised that excellence is a continuous journey that requires sustained commitment and investment.

“Excellence is not a one-time achievement; it is a continuous process that demands deliberate investment in people, constant system improvement and a strong commitment to the vision of a smarter, safer and more efficient Lagos,” he said.

Mr. Akanle urged participants to fully engage with the training sessions and apply the knowledge acquired to their daily operations for improved service delivery.

“I encourage all participants to approach this training with enthusiasm and ensure that the knowledge gained translates into improved performance in our daily operations,” he added.

He also expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, the Permanent Secretary, facilitators and resource persons for their support in making the programme a reality.

Odunmbaku treats Ojodu residents to NIG/ALG live quarter-final match screening

Hon. David Olusegun Odunmbaku, the chairman of Ojodu Local Council Development Area on Saturday sponsored a live viewing quarter-final match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Algeria in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Nigeria won the match 2-0 with Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams scoring and Osimhen awarded the Man-of -the -Match.

The viewing party which was held at Oluwole tarmac saw hundreds of residents trooping to the centre to enjoy watching the match on a large television screen.

They praised Hon. Odunmbaku for sponsoring the live viewing centre thereby making it possible for everyone to cheer the Super Eagles to victory reflecting the chairman’s passion for sports development.

Ojodu LCDA: A record of grassroots impact

By Ayodele Olalere

Local government administration has increasingly been viewed by many Nigerians as falling short of how it ought to be run. This perception has intensified public attention on the activities and performance of local government chairmen across the country.

In a state like Lagos, many stakeholders believe the responsibility lies heavily on council chairmen to actively contribute to the development of the state, in line with its status as the nation’s Centre of Excellence.

For Hon. David Olusegun Odumbaku, Executive Chairman of Ojodu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State, local government administration is about service to the people.

Now serving his second term in office, Odumbaku, popularly known as ODOS, has emerged as a dynamic and visionary young politician in Lagos, redefining grassroots governance through a results-driven approach.

Despite his visible footprint across the council, critics still ask, “What has Odumbaku done?”—a question often posed rhetorically to downplay his achievements. The facts on the ground, however, tell a different story.

Odumbaku was re-elected chairman of Ojodu LCDA in the 2025 local government elections by a landslide, a clear endorsement of his performance during his first term and widespread acceptance among residents.

His administration has been guided by the HEYS Agenda in his first term and the expanded HEYS Reloaded Agenda in his second term, focusing on Health and Social Welfare, Education Development, Youth and Women Development, Social Empowerment, and Infrastructure.

In the health sector, Odumbaku embarked on a comprehensive upgrade of primary healthcare services. Dilapidated public health centres were reconstructed, while new centres were built in Akiode, Apata, Powerline and Gbajumo. These facilities were equipped with modern medical equipment, hybrid solar-powered systems, generators and qualified medical personnel.

At the Oluwole Health Centre alone, over 600 surgeries have been successfully conducted. Two additional health centres are scheduled for commissioning during the marking of his 400 days in office. A large-scale medical outreach, conducted in partnership with medical professionals from Atlanta, United States, provided thousands of residents with free medical tests and drugs.

Commending these efforts during an oversight visit, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Hon. Lawal Musibau, said:
“I can see improvement in your healthcare facilities compared to how you met them. Your operating room is excellent, the equipment is of high standard, and your staff are very professional. You have really done well.”

Odumbaku’s empowerment initiatives underscore his commitment to inclusive growth and social welfare. Within his first 100 days in office, empowerment tools were distributed across the council, including poultry and fish feeds, grinding machines, industrial freezers and ovens, generators, solar panels, laptops, welding machines, hair dryers, weaving machines, gas cookers and desktop computers.

The chairman has significantly expanded Ojodu’s road network through the construction of new roads and rehabilitation of dilapidated ones, improving connectivity and linking previously isolated communities. These projects have enhanced mobility, commerce and security within the LCDA.

In alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in agriculture, Odumbaku has sponsored youths for training in Snailies and Hydroponics Farming at the renowned Snailies FarmLab. Graduates of the programme received ₦5 million grants to establish their farms, reinforcing food security and economic empowerment.

Education has remained a priority under Odumbaku’s leadership. His initiatives include a Back-to-School programme, construction of ICT hubs, deployment of digital containerised secondary schools in Ojodu, renovation and construction of classrooms, distribution of desks and benches, bursary awards, and the provision of GCE and JAMB forms. Exemplary teachers have also been rewarded for outstanding service.

The reconstruction of the Ojodu LCDA Secretariat at Powerline, Oke-Ira, into a modern, digitally powered headquarters is nearing completion. When delivered, the facility is expected to stand as one of Odumbaku’s enduring legacies and a benchmark for future administrations.

Odumbaku’s digital transformation drive has earned him multiple awards. In 2025, he received national recognition in Abuja as Digital Local Government Chairman of the Year, conferred by the Federal Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) and presented by its Director-General, Mr D. I. Arabi. He was also honoured with the Grassroots Governance Excellence Award at the 10th Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala Awards and a Merit Award for Community Service by the Lagos State Community Development Advisory Council (LSCDAC).

Ayodele Olalere is the Chief Press Secretary to Hon. David Olusegun Odumbaku.

Federal High court strikes out Lagos monarch's suit on disputed Eti-Osa land


The Federal High Court, in Lagos, has struck out a fundamental rights suit filed by a traditional ruler, Oba Kazeem Salami, against Dr Ken Uwaifo, Stanley Oripelaye, Cosmopolitan Property Limited, the Lagos State Task Force and other respondents over alleged harassment and unlawful detention in connection with a disputed land in Eti-Osa Local Government Area.

Other respondents in the suit marked FHC/L/CS/815/2020 are Diji Vera Cruz, Austin Utuk, Inspector General of Police, Assistant Inspector General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State.
In the judgment delivered on December 4, 2025, Justice Alexander Owoeye upheld the preliminary objections filed by the Lagos State Police and other law enforcement officers, finding that the applicants, Salami, Alhaji Babatunde Falana, Alhaji Abdulsalam Sulaimon, and the Lagos State Attorney General had not met the conditions for filing the suit under the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules.

The applicants had alleged that they were subjected to harassment, intimidation, and unlawful arrest by the Lagos State Task Force Unit on Land Grabbers, police officers, and other respondents between 2018 and 2020 over a land dispute at Odo-Nikin, Alasia Village, measuring 107.877 hectares.

They sought declarations of violation of their rights to dignity, liberty, fair hearing, and freedom of movement, as well as an injunction restraining the respondents from further interference and N350m in exemplary damages.

However, the court held that while the applicants’ claims involved allegations of rights violations, the filing appeared intended to evade criminal prosecution.

Justice Owoeye ruled that the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure cannot be used as a shield against criminal liability, stating that the applicants were entitled to defend themselves in Magistrate Court proceedings while the civil suit over the land continued.

The court also addressed preliminary objections by the respondents, including claims that multiple applicants could not file jointly and that matters relating to land disputes fall outside the jurisdiction of Chapter IV of the Constitution.

The judge held that multiple applicants could join in a single suit where there was a common grievance, and that the case, as framed, focused on fundamental rights violations rather than property ownership per se.

Consequently, the court sustained the preliminary objection filed by the 8th–10th respondents, struck out the substantive application, and ordered that the parties bear their respective costs.

The Lagos state High Court had earlier, on February 26, 2024, dismissed the suit of the application by members of the Fatimot Sosan Ope family seeking to restrain alleged land acquisition and development in Alasia Village, Eti-Osa Local Government Area.

The ruling, delivered by Justice Olabisi Akinlade, was in the suit numbered LD/4383LMW/2017.

The claimants in the suit are Alhaji Babatunde Falana, Alhaji Abdulsalami O. Sulaimon, Mrs Maria Vera-Cruz, and Alhaji Lateef Kazeem.
They had sought an interlocutory injunction to restrain the defendants from allegedly encroaching on their ancestral land.

The defendants include the Lagos State Governor, the Attorney General, the Surveyor General of Lagos, and the Commissioner of Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
Others are the permanent secretary, Lagos state lands bureau, Lagos state Task force on environment and other special offences unit, the permanent secretary Lagos state ministry of environment, cosmopolitan properties limited, Dr Ken Uwaifo, Mr Stanley Oripelaye, Mr Austin Utuk, Hitech construction company ltd and Diji Vera Cruz.

The claimants argued that the defendants had unlawfully sold and allocated portions of their land to private individuals, leaving many family members homeless and unable to farm or earn a livelihood.

In opposition, the defendants, including Cosmopolitan Properties Limited and Hitech Construction Company Ltd., presented evidence showing that the land in dispute had been lawfully acquired through public auctions and court orders, with Certificates of Occupancy, survey plans, and deeds of assignment confirming legal ownership.

They also argued that the government acted within its statutory powers in removing illegal structures on the land to protect lawful property rights.

Justice Akinlade, in delivering the judgment, noted that the claimants had failed to establish a prima facie legal right that warranted the court’s intervention at the interlocutory stage.
The judge also ruled that the balance of convenience favoured the defendants and that damages could provide an adequate remedy if the claimants ultimately succeed in the substantive suit.

“The applicants have not shown that the exercise of this Court’s discretionary power is warranted at this stage. The claimants should await the full trial and determination of their rights,” Akinlade said.

“ In view of the reasoning of the court, I hereby refuse to exercise the discretionary power of the court in favour of the claimants/applicants. Instead, the claimants should await the full trial and determination of their rights.

“In the final analysis, this application fails, and the same is hereby dismissed, the judge held.
Punch

Lagos govt warns residents to keep 50metres distance from burnt GNI building

Lagos State government has warned residents and traders around Oluwole market and adjoining streets, Lagos Island to stay 50metres away from the burnt 21 storey Great Nigeria Insurance, GNI, building for their safety.

The government also warned that disobeying the directive will be termed a criminal offence and anyone who violates the warning will be arrested and prosecuted.

The warning was given when a team from the Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA, led by its General Manager, Gbaye Florence and the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arch. Gbolahan Oki inspected the scene of the incident.

Others on the team were the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on e-GIS and Urban Development, Olajide Babatunde, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Emergency Management Authority, LASEMA, Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, officers from the Lagos State Fire Services and the Manager, Neighborhood Service Corps.

According to the LASBCA Manager, Gbaye, the government has a responsibility to protect everyone noting that all the buildings within the 50metres radius have been sealed and will not be reopened until deconstruction of the GNI building.

She urged Lagosians and traders within the affected areas to comply with the 50metres radius.

“It's better to be safe than to be sorry. LASBCA will seal all the buildings within the 50metres radius because the government has a responsibility to protect everyone. We urge all Lagosians to comply with the 50metres radius,”Gbaye said.

The Permanent Secretary Office of Urban Development, Arch Gbolahan Oki said all relevant agencies have been working together to ensure other affected buildings do not collapse on the people which is the reason for the enforcement of the 50metres radius.

Dr Olajide Abiodun said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has put in place a special taskforce to look into the deconstruction of the GNI building.

“The work of removing affected buildings has commenced. We have removed everyone within the 50metres radius. The governor has given us all the support we need. . We are using the CDAs and the neighborhood to ensure nobody is found within a 50metres radius of the building.

On when normalcy will return to the scene, Olajide said a team of experts are already discussing with the government on when the deconstruction of the building will start and end. He also called on property owners to ensure their buildings are insured in case of fire incidents.

“We will continue to reduce the radius as we continue the deconstruction,”

Murisiq Alade who represented the Oluwole Community Development Association and other CDAs within the area promised to comply with the government directives.

Bolaji Shokoya, who represented the Neighborhood Service Corps called for the cooperation of the CDAs to ensure the safety of the people within the area by keeping the 50metres radius.

Lagos PS, Gbolahan Oki officially unveils as Ogboni Iduntafa, commissions palace

The Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Lagos State, Arch. Gbolahan Oki has been officially crowned as the Ogboni Iduntafa from the Ogboni Iduntafa Chieftaincy Family of Isale Eko, Lagos Island.

The coronation ceremony held on Wednesday also witnessed the opening of a new Ogboni Iduntafa Family Palace by Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Ogboni Iduntafa is one of the oldest custodian institutions deeply rooted in the traditions of Lagos Island. It represents a lineage of spiritual authority, communal guardianship and ancestral continuity.

At the commissioning of the palace, Arch. Oki said his official coronation and the new palace embodied the cultural value and history of the Lagos Island people and that of the Iduntafa family.

He promised to remain focused in upholding and preserving the culture the chieftaincy title represents.

He thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for contributing to his rise in the civil service and the family for his emergence as the Ogboni Iduntafa.

“This coronation is the next step in my life. I want to thank Mr Governor and the people that surrounded me. God showed me uncommon favour because in less than four years, I was given four promotions. I became two times general manager of LASBCA, I became permanent secretary and now the Ogboni Iduntafa

My vision is to remain focused with integrity. This palace belongs to all the generations of this royal family including those unborn. It is a symbol of shared history, collective pride and enduring cultural value. This has strengthened our resolve to honour history. May this palace serve as a beacon of unity and prosperity for Lagos and our people. I promise to continue upholding and promoting the culture of our people, Oki said.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in his remarks commended the Iduntafa family for bringing modernisation to Lagos Island with the construction of a modern palace.

“This palace will serve as encouragement to others and bring a touch of modernisation to Lagos Island. This shows that Lagos State is rich in culture and serves as an education for the younger generation ,” Sanwo-Olu said.

At Aponmade 's birthday, Prof. Adedeji calls for urgent reform of Nigeria's IP system


Professor Wole Adedeji of the Faculty of Law, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has called for urgent reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s intellectual property (IP) system to adequately respond to evolving challenges in today’s digital environment.

He made the call while delivering a lecture titled “Efficacy of the Current Nigerian Intellectual Property System in Today’s Digital World” at the 60th birthday celebration of legal practitioner, Mr. Akeem Aponmade.

Prof Adedeji, represented by Dr Enobong Ogundari, said intellectual property protection in Nigeria has become increasingly complex due to rapid technological advancements, global connectivity, and the borderless nature of digital platforms.

He noted that while IP rights are designed to protect creativity and innovation, digital transformation has introduced both opportunities and unprecedented risks for creators and industries.

Adedeji traced the structure of his lecture, which covered the foundations of intellectual property, its economic significance, and Nigeria’s current regulatory framework.

He explained that IP refers to creations of the human intellect such as inventions, literary works, artistic expressions, symbols and designs used in commerce. According to him, these creations require statutory protection to ensure creators enjoy proprietary rights and fair economic benefits.

While speaking on the impact of digital technology, Adedeji described it as a “bittersweet experience” for the global IP community. He listed the positive transformations brought by digital advancements, including access to vast information resources, enhanced communication, ease of modifying and reproducing creative works, and the democratisation of content creation. Cloud computing, he noted, has allowed users to store and retrieve data seamlessly from anywhere, while digital platforms have expanded opportunities for creators to reach global audiences.

He added that digital distribution channels, improved reproduction quality, and innovative licensing models have created new revenue streams for creators—when properly regulated.

However, Adedeji stressed that the negative effects of digitalisation are equally significant. He pointed out that the ease of copying and sharing digital content without authorization has fuelled widespread piracy. High-quality reproduction of copyrighted materials, anonymizing technologies, and complex jurisdictional boundaries have made enforcement of IP rights more difficult. “Digital platforms provide an almost uncontrollable distribution system that undermines the integrity of copyright protection,” he said.

On Nigeria’s legal framework, Adedeji identified several gaps hindering the effectiveness of the IP system. One major challenge, he said, is the country’s absence from key international and regional IP bodies, such as the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO), the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), and treaty systems like the International Patent Cooperation Union and the Patent Cooperation Treaty.

According to him, joining and domesticating these treaties would strengthen Nigeria’s IP regime, enhance cross-border recognition of rights and improve protection for Nigerian creators. “Ratification and domestication will make our IP system more robust, responsive and aligned with global standards,” he noted.

Adedeji also lamented the low level of IP awareness in the country. He urged government agencies, particularly the National Orientation Agency (NOA), to embark on nationwide sensitisation campaigns to educate citizens on the importance of respecting creative works and observing ethical behaviour online. Such enlightenment, he said, should aim at promoting a culture of creativity, innovation and respect for intellectual property.

The law professor further called for international collaboration to address cross-border infringements, noting that internet-related violations often transcend national jurisdictions. He cited global initiatives like the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) and the WIPO Copyright Treaty as examples of frameworks that promote harmonised standards for IP enforcement.

Highlighting technological solutions, Adedeji explained that digital rights management systems, artificial intelligence tools and content recognition algorithms can help detect and prevent IP violations on online platforms. He also mentioned blockchain technology as a promising tool for maintaining immutable records of IP ownership.

To empower creators, Adedeji recommended the provision of affordable legal services, simplified registration processes and guidance on licensing and monetisation strategies. He stressed that supporting rights owners to enforce their claims will strengthen Nigeria’s creative economy.

He called for institutional reforms, he emphasised the need to address administrative bottlenecks in the Trademarks, Patents and Designs Registry, and other agencies responsible for IP administration. Improving their efficiency, he said, is essential to building a credible and functional IP system.

Adedeji therefore maintained that safeguarding intellectual property in the digital age requires a multifaceted approach that blends law, technology, policy and education. He said a more proactive enforcement attitude by rights owners, combined with policy-driven reforms and public enlightenment, will ensure that IP rights are preserved for future generations.

He stressed that, “Nigeria must act urgently, because the challenges of the digital world will only intensify, but with the right measures, the country can protect creators, attract investment and strengthen its innovation ecosystem.”

Lagos nurses advocate for improved welfare, urge stress relief


The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwife, Lagos Ministry of Health Unit, has called for improved welfare packages and infrastructure for medical professionals to stop the mass relocation of Nigerian Nurses abroad.

They also urged medical practitioners, especially nurses, to prioritize their health by taking care of themselves due to the demanding nature of the profession.

The nurses spoke at their get-together gathering held in Lagos to mark the end of the year activities.

The initiator of the event, Mrs Sola Aketi who is the Lagos State Director of Nursing Services, Ministry of Health, said the burden of taking care of other people sometimes weighed down on the health of the nurses therefore the gathering was an opportunity for them to wine and dine and ease out stress.

“Nurses.are overwhelmed with burdens of activities and overstretched which is our calling to care. So I felt this is an opportunity for nurses to relax because everything is not about work.

Right now Nigeria is going through challenges but when we come together, the stress will lighten. I want to tell the government that nurses need more attention. Many of them leaving the country are not leaving because they want to leave but the situation has to be better here.

We want more in the area of infrastructure, mobility and accommodation. If these are given to us, we can perform better than we are doing. I want to thank Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for promoting one of us as a permanent secretary,” Mrs Aketi said.

Mrs Sarah Balogun, the Senior Special Assistant to the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on health urged nurses to take time out to look after themselves and their well-being.

“As nurses, we support each other. Nurses should find time to enjoy themselves no matter what you do. We need to plan how to ease pressure so we can be more productive,” she said.

Comrade Adedeji Awat, the chairman National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwife, Lagos Ministry of Health Unit also advocated for better welfare for nurses, emphasizing the need for them to ease out stress.

“We have been working from January to December and we need time to rest our brain. Part of our work as nurses is to educate people on the need to take care of themselves. People should go for periodic check-ups so that they can live a healthy life. It's also an opportunity to encourage young nurses because they will take after us,” Awat said.

She added: “We care for people but we feel we also need time to care for ourselves. We are always available for people without having time for relaxation so this is the time for us to rest and meditate.

The nurses also called on the government to invest in continuous training and education of medical personnel.

Diasporan Yoruba nurses shower Lagos' best nursing students with cash, gifts



Nigerian United States of America based nurses of Yoruba origin under the aegis of Yoruba United Nurses of North America (YUNONA) have presented gifts and cash to the best graduating nursing students from Lagos State colleges of nursing across the state.

The gifts were presented when a team from YUNONA led by its President, Mrs Efunshola Oshodi accompanied by the Community Program Director, Mrs Tina Aje and the administrator, Mrs Adeola Olagbaju visited the colleges as part of its end of the year activities in Nigeria.

According to the president, the visit was part of the association’s initiatives to give back to the society by rewarding the students for their excellent performances in their various fields.

Efunshola said over the years, the association has done several of such initiatives in America one of which is the ‘Operation Christmas Child,’ where they give support to children of incarcerated individuals.

She, however, said that being Nigerians, they decided to give back to upcoming nurses in Nigeria as a way of encouraging them.

“The Lagos State Director of Nursing in the Ministry of Health, Mrs Sola Aketi informed us that Lagos is blessed with numerous nursing departments across colleges and universities. She drew our attention to the importance of recognizing and encouraging our young ones because they are our future leaders so we decided to present tokens of our appreciation to our young professionals,” Efunshola said.

She further noted that the best graduating nurses were chosen as a way of rewarding them for their excellence adding that giving back to society ‘has become a ritual for us.’

“We intentionally selected the best graduating students because excellence deserves recognition, encouragement and celebration. At a certain stage in our professional and personal journeys, some of us came together that it was time to give back to our community

Over the years, giving back has become a ritual for us and this year, we decided to bring the journey home.”

The Director of Nursing, Mrs Aketi commended the YUNONA’s team for their gesture noting that with the ‘JAPA’ syndrome especially in the medical profession, the visit would encourage young nurses to consider staying back home and offer their services to Nigerians.

The colleges visited were the Lagos State College of Nursing, Igando where they presented gifts to Roqeebat Awode who was the 2025 best student in midwifery and the overall best student in the college.

At the Nigeria Army College of Nursing, Yaba, the best graduating student Adisa Precious was also presented with gifts while Awodele Kikelomo the best graduating student at the Lagos State College of Medicine, LASUCOM, also received gifts.

Others are Adewale Grace from the Lagos State College of Nursing, LASCON, Awolowo road, Ikoyi, and Oluwapelumi Faith from the College of Nursing, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Idi Arabaeho was the best student in HND1.

Excitement as celebrities storms kayzplace reopening party in Surulere after fire-damaged experience

Celebrities on Sunday stormed the reopening party of Kayzplace Barbershop in Surulere, drawing a large gathering of entertainers, friends, family, loyal clients, community leaders to mark the occasion.

The reopening followed a period of disruption caused by fire breakout that took place three months ago and the reopening was widely described by attendees as a quiet triumph of resilience, solidarity and renewed purpose.

The atmosphere was both celebratory and reflective. Guests came not merely for grooming but to affirm their support for the business and its owner, whose perseverance had become a shared point of pride.

Popular entertainer Nasboi, a regular client, said his presence was deliberate.
“Aside from the fact that I patronise Mr Kay, I think he is a very great guy. When he told me what happened to him, I felt bad and decided to make time to come support him,” he said.

“I get inspiration from anywhere; it could be a barbering salon, it could be while in the bus or anywhere,” he said, adding that the comfort and familiarity of the new place made it a place he enjoyed spending time in.

He also addressed young people seeking quick success, offering a blunt reminder of the value of patience and preparation.
“A lot of young people do not want to build; they want it fast. Mr Kay did not start today; he started in 2012,” he said.

He urged youths to balance education, skills and talent, stressing that “talent is not a guarantee to success and school is also not a guarantee of success.”

The owner’s wife, Mrs. Rose Kufre-William, described the reopening as deeply emotional for the family, recalling the pain of the events that led to the disruption.

“It means a lot to me because we know what happened, and it was very heartbreaking,” she said. “We just thank God because this new look is His doing. We are happy and grateful.”

She said the significance of the place lay not only in its refurbished interior but also in the story behind its return. According to her, the team worked under intense pressure to restore the shop within a short timeframe.

“Because of the incident that took place, we had to use two weeks to make this happen. A lot went into the planning and the energy to make this happen,” she said.


She encouraged young people to remain grounded and intentional in their pursuits. “If you put in the work and prepare yourself, you can actually achieve whatever you put your mind to,” she said, advising them to understand their talents and think differently to stand out.

The owner, Mr Nnah Kufre William (popularly known as Kay) in his remarks, avowed that reopening the shop was a necessity rather than a choice.

“Of course, it was necessary. This is my business, and I don’t have any other business, so I had to take the necessary steps to bring it back,” he said.

Among those present was Hon. Oladimeji, who praised the owner’s determination and work ethic. He described Kay as resilient and persistent, noting that despite setbacks, he “didn’t relent and kept his head up”, adding that such resolve deserved public support.

Top list of 'A' list celebrities that have had their hair cut at the most exotic saloon in Lagos are: Davido, Nasboi, Cdq, Sexy steel, Don jazzy, Timini Hotkeed, Timi dakolo, Ay, Shoddy, Yomi casual, Falz the bad guy, Damilola Ogunsi, Dikeh, Davileon, Sydney talker, Dikeh, Rubby, Destalker Aproko doctor, Ebuka, Ajebo, Iyanya, Funny, Born, Poco Lee, Pencil, Ushbebe among others

We’ll build inclusive, sustainable housing, Sanwo-Olu promises Lagosians

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has promised Lagosians that his administration is committed to building a housing sector that is inclusive and sustainable for all residents regardless of status in partnership with the private sector.

Speaking at the 6th Lagos Real Estate Market Place Conference organised by the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Agency, LASRERA, with the theme ‘Shaping the Future of Lagos Mega City: Infrastructure Investment, Innovation and Affordable Housing, Sanwo-Olu said providing affordable housing for all Lagosians is possible with the cooperation of the private sector.

Sanwo said building affordable houses is not the sole responsibility of the government but in partnership with private companies and institutions.

“ Housing is not just about buildings. Housing is about human dignity, economic productivity, social stability and the kind of city we choose to become.
Housing sits firmly at the heart of our development agenda. In Lagos, affordability means building homes that people can actually live in, pay for, and access close to where they work and raise families. It means leveraging PPPs, structured finance, land optimisation, and demand-led planning. And it means the government playing its rightful role as enabler, regulator, and partner not sole provider. None of this is possible without strong partnerships,” Sanwo-Olu said

He added: “A true mega city is not defined only by how tall it builds, but by how well it lives, by how accessible opportunity is, by how secure communities feel, and by how hopeful the next generation can be. That is the Lagos we are committed to building, thoughtfully, inclusively, and sustainably.”

The Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai in his contribution said Lagos has come under global spotlight due to its development plan, strategic initiatives and capital projects designed to position the state as an African model megacity.

He noted that agencies like LASRERA are central to ensuring that innovation in the build sector never compromises integrity, public safety or regulatory compliance.

“Lagos is an integrated model of urban development that aligns infrastructure investments, spatial planning, regulatory oversight, social planning and executive policy. Lagos is a city in motion we have moved decisively from vision to implementation from plans to performance. Every housing unit delivered, every infrastructure corridor open, every regulatory reform introduced reflects our commitment to building a city that works not just for today but for generations yet unborn, “ the commissioner said.

In her remarks, the Special Adviser, Housing, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare said the conference is a strategic platform for stakeholders in the housing sector to partner and address challenges confronting the sector and proffer solutions for the rapidly growing megacity like Lagos.

She added that partnering with other countries like Saudi Arabia, United States, UAE, Canada and other African countries shows the readiness of Lagos State government to improve its real estate infrastructure.

The Commissioner further said that the state government has created initiatives and formulated policies such as the new tenancy bill currently being reviewed by the Lagos State House of Assembly. streamlining the role of practitioners and providing clearer guidelines for real estate transactions in Lagos.

“Your presence here, representing diverse nations and expertise, underscores the universal nature of urban development challenges. Lagos State is committed to creating the most transparent and investor-friendly real estate ecosystem in Africa. Let us use this conference to forge agreements that will deliver real homes, not just ideas. Let us build a future Lagos that is greener, smarter, and more inclusive. Lagos is committed to creating the most transparent and investor friendly real estate ecosystem in Africa, ” Barakat said.

We’ll build inclusive, sustainable housing, Sanwo-Olu promises Lagosians

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has promised Lagosians that his administration is committed to building a housing sector that is inclusive and sustainable for all residents regardless of status in partnership with the private sector.

Speaking at the 6th Lagos Real Estate Market Place Conference organised by the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Agency, LASRERA, with the theme ‘Shaping the Future of Lagos Mega City: Infrastructure Investment, Innovation and Affordable Housing, Sanwo-Olu said providing affordable housing for all Lagosians is possible with the cooperation of the private sector.

Sanwo said building affordable houses is not the sole responsibility of the government but in partnership with private companies and institutions.

“ Housing is not just about buildings. Housing is about human dignity, economic productivity, social stability and the kind of city we choose to become.
Housing sits firmly at the heart of our development agenda. In Lagos, affordability means building homes that people can actually live in, pay for, and access close to where they work and raise families. It means leveraging PPPs, structured finance, land optimisation, and demand-led planning. And it means the government playing its rightful role as enabler, regulator, and partner not sole provider. None of this is possible without strong partnerships,” Sanwo-Olu said

He added: “A true mega city is not defined only by how tall it builds, but by how well it lives, by how accessible opportunity is, by how secure communities feel, and by how hopeful the next generation can be. That is the Lagos we are committed to building, thoughtfully, inclusively, and sustainably.”

The Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai in his contribution said Lagos has come under global spotlight due to its development plan, strategic initiatives and capital projects designed to position the state as an African model megacity.

He noted that agencies like LASRERA are central to ensuring that innovation in the build sector never compromises integrity, public safety or regulatory compliance.

“Lagos is an integrated model of urban development that aligns infrastructure investments, spatial planning, regulatory oversight, social planning and executive policy. Lagos is a city in motion we have moved decisively from vision to implementation from plans to performance. Every housing unit delivered, every infrastructure corridor open, every regulatory reform introduced reflects our commitment to building a city that works not just for today but for generations yet unborn, “ the commissioner said.

In her remarks, the Special Adviser, Housing, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare said the conference is a strategic platform for stakeholders in the housing sector to partner and address challenges confronting the sector and proffer solutions for the rapidly growing megacity like Lagos.

She added that partnering with other countries like Saudi Arabia, United States, UAE, Canada and other African countries shows the readiness of Lagos State government to improve its real estate infrastructure.

The Commissioner further said that the state government has created initiatives and formulated policies such as the new tenancy bill currently being reviewed by the Lagos State House of Assembly. streamlining the role of practitioners and providing clearer guidelines for real estate transactions in Lagos.

“Your presence here, representing diverse nations and expertise, underscores the universal nature of urban development challenges. Lagos State is committed to creating the most transparent and investor-friendly real estate ecosystem in Africa. Let us use this conference to forge agreements that will deliver real homes, not just ideas. Let us build a future Lagos that is greener, smarter, and more inclusive. Lagos is committed to creating the most transparent and investor friendly real estate ecosystem in Africa, ” Barakat said.

Sanwo-Olu Rewards Lagos Public Servants With Vehicles, Cash Prizes
 
 
 

Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide sanwo-Olu has rewarded public servants in the state with brand new sedan cars and cash prizes for their excellent performances in discharging their duties to the state in 2025.
 
The governor at a special luncheon held in honour of the 2025 Outstanding Public Servants at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja,  reiterated his administration’s commitment to recognising excellence, professionalism and dedication within the civil service.

Governor Sanwo-Olu announced cash rewards of ₦5 million each to five exceptional officers selected from a pool of civil servants across the state.
 
In addition, five senior officers also emerged through a raffle draw to receive brand-new cars in recognition of their exemplary service.
 
The award recipients were drawn from 177 public servants shortlisted from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), comprising 78 junior and 99 senior officers, following what officials described as a rigorous and transparent selection process.
 
Beyond the top awardees, Governor Sanwo-Olu extended cash rewards to other honourees, with 73 junior officers receiving ₦500,000 each, while 94 senior officers were awarded ₦1 million each.
 
Addressing the gathering, the governor commended the award recipients for their dedication and urged them to sustain excellence and commit themselves to continuous self-development.
 
“Once you identify your skill, you must continue to develop and refine it. Never allow it to decline,” Sanwo-Olu said, stressing that consistent improvement and perseverance remain the foundation for long-term success and recognition in public service.
 
He noted that competence becomes evident when responsibility calls, adding that preparation and discipline ultimately distinguish those ready for greater opportunities.
 
“So, the Head of Service has given all five awardees in the junior category ₦5 million each. And because he is the Head of Service and my teammate, I do not want to compete with him,” the governor said.
 
“Therefore, to every other person in the junior category, I will give ₦500,000. And for everyone in the senior category, let us give them ₦1 million each.”
 
The governor announced the appointment of Mrs. Toyin Anjous-Ademuyiwa, former Director-General of the Lagos State Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation (OTCI), as a Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Public Service.
 
He described the appointment as a recognition of her leadership qualities and contributions to institutional reforms and innovation within the state.
 
Earlier, the Head of Service of Lagos State, Mr Bode Agoro, explained that the luncheon marked the grand finale of the 2025 Public Service Week, which featured activities such as medical screenings, fitness walks, donations to children with disabilities, long-service awards, a government lecture and talent competitions.
 
Agoro disclosed that the 177 honourees were selected from 312 nominations received statewide, following a thorough assessment process.
 
He charged the award recipients to justify the confidence reposed in them by remaining diligent, responsible and committed to duty, noting that the recognition placed a greater responsibility on them to serve as role models within the civil service.
 
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his sustained support for public servants and his commitment to improving welfare and motivation across the Lagos State Public Service.

Ojodu LCDA boss presents N9.8bn 2026 ‘Budget of Sustainability Growth for All’ to legislative assembly

Ojodu Local Council Development Area chairman, Hon David Odunmbaku has presented the 2026 Appropriation bill of
N9, 801, 183, 493.72billion to the legislative council.

Tagged ‘Budget of Sustainability Growth for All; Investing in Resilient Communities,’ the budget focuses on education, digitalization of the council’s operation, health, youth, agriculture, empowerment, road construction

A breakdown of the budget indicates a capital expenditure of N5,187,249, 379.03 representing 52.4%.

Total expected total revenue is N9,901,183,493.72 out of which federal statutory allocation is N1,076,343,785.09 representing 11% of the budget.

Value Added Tax proposed is N7,901,168,643.96 representing 80% of the total expected revenue and Internally Generated Revenue of N161,100,000.00.

Others include state coordinated revenue of N239,145,000.00 representing 2.4% and N523,426,064.67 from ‘other related allocation’ representing 5%.

In his speech, Odunmbaku said some of the programmes and projects that will be carried out under the budget includes construction of roads, provision of solar street lights, rehabilitation of primary schools, provision of bursary awards, rehabilitation of Public Health Centres, empowerment of all categories of people, sensitisation, training and seminars on poverty reduction, promotion of clean environment, supports for youths and sports development as well as agric development programmes.

He added that all leakages will be blocked by digitalising the council ‘s business permit processes.

“Our vision is to evolve a community that will serve as a model for socio economic and infrastructure. We will enhance transparency and efficiency in Internally Generated Revenue by fully implementing technology driven solutions. We will eliminate leakages and ensure every Kobo collected is accounted for and channeled towards the services of our people.

The bill is more than just a document of figures, it is a covenant of hope between this administration and the people of Ojodu LCDA. It is a commitment to building resilient communities where sustainable growth is truly for all,”Odunmbaku said.

The Leader of the House, Hon. Opeyemi Apatira commended the chairman for putting together a budget that ‘captures our shared resolve to deepen inclusive development and strengthen the resilience of our communities.’

He said the legislative assembly will scrutinize the budget and give it ‘timely attention.’

2026 Budget Retreat; Odunmbaku charges HODs on due process, teamwork, accountability


The chairman of Ojodu Local Council Development Area, Hon David Odunmbaku on Saturday kick-started a 3-day 2026 budget retreat for Heads of Departments and Units charging them to be transparent and accountable as well as follow due process.

The 2026 budget is tagged ‘Budget of Sustainable Growth for All. Odunmbaku emphasised the importance of team work among all the departments in order to achieve desired results.

While commending the HODs for making ‘Ojodu LCDA a beacon of hope’, he urged them to embrace technology in carrying out their duties noting that the world has gone digital.

It is recalled that the chairman recently bagged the award of 2025 Digital Local Government Chairman from the Federal Bureau of Public Service Reforms.

“I appreciate you for your selfless service. You have made Ojodu LCDA a beacon of hope. We must appreciate the federal government for increasing the allocation of local government and abide by the procurement law.. We must embrace change because the world is changing and we need to adapt. We must build the Nigeria of our dreams,” Odunmbaku charges them.

Speaking on the topic ‘ Understanding Public Procurement Law and Procedures,’
Fatai Idowu who was represented by the Director of Procurement, Local Government Service Commission, LGSC, Ambali Oluwakemi also charged the HODs and HOUs to uphold the five pillars of procurement which are open competition, promotion of integrity and fairness, accountability and record keeping as well as equity and value for money.

He noted that when procurement is done well, value for money, jobs and confidence in government will be achieved.

Eulogizing the performance of the Chairman, one of the facilitators, Dr. Adeniyi Adeleke, commended Odunmbaku on his policy direction documents captured in the HEYS RELOADED Agenda.

“You are one of the local government chairmen that has policy documents. Your council website is doing well. Most local governments chairmen are silent about what their agendas are but in your case, you are different. So It's not a shocking thing you won an award. The good work you have done is what will live after you have left the office .You have been consistent in what you do,” he praised Odunmbaku.

He also lauded Odunmbaku for the theme of the budget describing it as a direct response to emerging realities facing Ojodu.

Adeniyi noted that Ojodu and its environment is one of the fast-growing suburban zones of Lagos adding that the 2026 budget will promote inclusive economic growth and broaden revenue base, support MSMEs, improve quality of social services such as education, health, agric, PHC, provide better school environments, improve market infrastructure, expand the tax net, build institutional capacity for effective service delivery, promote environmental sustainability and urban cleanliness, strengthen community engagement and public participation.

He reminded the HODs that the budget serves as a direction and mirror for the government on its plans for the coming year and urged them to work together in its implementation.