₦airaland Forum

Hon. Ganiyu Johnson Declares Support for Tinubu, Hamzat Ahead of 2027 Elections

.....Urges Voters to Exercise Civic Rights Without Fear

By Naomi Onome

Former lawmaker representing Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency II, Lagos State, Engr. Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson, has declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid and Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Johnson made the declaration during a meeting with his supporters and journalists in Lagos, marking his first public appearance in the state since the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries.

Explaining his decision to step back from public political activities after the primaries, the former federal lawmaker said he had deliberately taken time to cool off before announcing his position, stressing that party supremacy must take precedence over individual ambitions.

Johnson added that his decision reflected the position of his supporters, who had agreed to rally behind Tinubu for a second term as president, Hamzat as the party’s governorship candidate in Lagos State, and other APC candidates at all levels.

“This is to let the whole world know that my supporters have agreed to support our president, our father and our mentor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to be president of Nigeria for the second time. We also support the deputy governor, Dr. Kadri Hamzat, as governor of Lagos State, and all other party candidates at all levels,” he said.

The former lawmaker, who described himself as a committed party member and political leader, said he remained actively involved in politics and would do everything within his capacity to support the party’s candidates.

Responding to questions about his political future, Johnson dismissed suggestions that he was taking a break from politics, insisting that his commitment to the APC remained intact.

He, however, clarified that his participation in campaign activities would depend partly on the party’s arrangements, noting that he was not a member of the campaign councils already constituted.

“If I am invited, I will participate. I will continue to support and encourage my supporters to support the party in my own capacity,” he said.

Johnson Highlights Challenge of Mobilising Lagos’ Diverse Electorate

Addressing concerns about the APC’s prospects in his constituency, Johnson acknowledged the challenges of mobilising support in an area with a diverse ethnic and cultural composition.

He noted that the constituency’s demographic structure required sustained grassroots mobilisation and dialogue, adding that the party needed to work harder to win the confidence of voters across different backgrounds.

According to him, political parties must present candidates who are acceptable to the electorate and possess good character to stand a strong chance of winning elections in such an environment.

“It is a work in progress. It is a learning curve for our party. We hope we will get there. We will continue to partner with electorates and engage them in discussions,” he said.

Johnson expressed hope that sustained engagement with residents from different ethnic backgrounds would strengthen the party’s relationship with the electorate.

On concerns about voter apathy, he predicted increased participation in the forthcoming elections, attributing the anticipated improvement to ongoing advocacy and mobilisation efforts.

Calls for Peaceful, Credible Elections

Johnson also urged Nigerians to participate in the electoral process without fear, following concerns raised by journalists about voter safety and the need for free, fair and credible elections.

He said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had assured Nigerians of a credible electoral process and urged citizens to exercise their civic rights by turning out to vote.

The former lawmaker also encouraged voters to remain at their polling units after casting their ballots to witness the counting process before leaving.

“I want to encourage everybody to come, vote, carry out your civic responsibility, and make sure that after casting your vote, you wait and let them count it before you go,” he said.

Dismissing concerns about election-related violence, Johnson described himself as a non-violent person and said his supporters were familiar with his disposition.

The declaration signals Johnson’s stated commitment to supporting the APC’s candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, following the party’s primaries and the political realignments among its members and supporters.

Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com/hon-ganiyu-johnson-declares-support-for-tinubu-hamzat-ahead-of-2027-elections/

Unemployment, Rising Costs: Iche Calls for Policies to Ease Nigerians’ Hardship

By Primetime Reports

Beyond the security crisis, the human rights advocate criticised the economic conditions facing Nigerians, arguing that unemployment, the rising cost of living and inadequate purchasing power had compounded the hardship experienced by households.

He lamented what he described as the absence of sufficient employment opportunities, adding that many factories were either not operating effectively or were failing to provide the jobs needed to support the population.

Iche also questioned the purchasing power of workers earning the national minimum wage, arguing that the amount was inadequate to meet the basic needs of many families.

He noted that households must contend with expenses such as school fees, rent, electricity, water and other essential needs, making it increasingly difficult for low-income earners to maintain a reasonable standard of living.

“There is no job anywhere. I stand to be corrected. The factories are not working. Even if the Federal Government will work, people cannot even go. Why? Because how much? ₦70,000 minimum wage, what can it buy? Can it solve a family that is paying school fees, house rent, water and light?” he asked.

He urged the government to prioritise job creation, support productive industries and implement policies that would improve the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians.

According to him, economic recovery must translate into tangible benefits for households, particularly workers and families struggling to meet their daily needs.

Warns Government Supporters Against Ignoring Public Hardship

Iche concluded by warning individuals and groups promoting the achievements of the present administration to reconsider their position in view of what he described as widespread insecurity and economic hardship.

He argued that the government's performance should be judged by its ability to protect lives, provide employment opportunities and improve the welfare of citizens rather than by political messaging alone.

The advocate expressed disappointment with the administration, accusing it of presiding over conditions that have brought hardship and uncertainty to many Nigerians.

“It's unfortunate that this government is going without people talking good about this present government,” he said.

He added that those marketing the administration should reflect on the experiences of citizens facing insecurity, unemployment and rising living costs.

“Whomever that is marketing this government should rethink because this government has really brought calamity, sorrow and tears into the lives of Nigerians,” he said.

His comments underscore the need for the government to address public concerns about economic hardship through measurable action, transparent communication and effective accountability mechanisms.

Prince Saviour Questions Government’s Response to Kidnapping, Banditry, Demands Transparency

.... Faults Delayed Rescue Efforts as Kidnapping Concerns Mount

By Naomi Onome

Human rights advocate and President of the Ambassadors for Peace and Enlightenment Foundation, Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, has questioned the Nigerian government’s response to the rising cases of kidnapping and banditry, alleging that persistent delays in rescuing abducted citizens and conflicting accounts of ransom payments have fuelled public suspicion about the handling of the security crisis.

Iche, who expressed concern over the worsening security situation and its implications for public confidence in government, argued that the increasing frequency of kidnappings under the present administration had made the crime appear increasingly lucrative.

He called on the government to provide clear explanations about its strategies for combating kidnapping, rescuing victims and dismantling the criminal networks responsible for the attacks.

According to him, Nigerians deserve greater transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding the abduction and eventual release of victims, particularly in cases where official statements differ from accounts provided by abductees and their families.

“It is no longer news that kidnapping and banditry are known to the government. We all know that since the inception of this administration, banditry and kidnapping have increased. In fact, kidnapping has become a very lucrative business that everybody knows is going to get,” he said.

The human rights advocate also referred to reports attributed to the Voice of America (VOA), which he said raised questions about the level of awareness of security agencies regarding kidnapping and banditry activities.

He maintained that the government's handling of abduction cases had left many Nigerians demanding answers about the effectiveness of security operations and the processes leading to the release of victims.

Oyo School Abduction Raises Questions Over Ransom Claims

Iche cited the abduction of schoolchildren, teachers and other school personnel in Oyo State as an example of the concerns surrounding the government's response to kidnapping incidents.

He questioned the circumstances under which the victims were eventually released, particularly reports that the government maintained that no ransom had been paid, while accounts attributed to some victims and their families allegedly suggested otherwise.

According to him, the apparent differences between official statements and the accounts of affected families have heightened public concerns about whether the circumstances surrounding such releases are being fully disclosed.

He argued that where government authorities insist that no ransom was paid, they should provide sufficient information to help the public understand how the victims were secured and what measures were taken to apprehend those responsible.

Iche stressed that transparency was essential to restoring public confidence and ensuring that Nigerians could properly assess the effectiveness of the government's security interventions.

He, however, called for a clearer explanation of the operational procedures involved in rescuing abducted persons, questioning why some victims reportedly remain in captivity for weeks or months before regaining their freedom.

“If the government doesn't know anything about the banditry, why is it taking time? Why is it taking time before efforts to rescue the kidnapped people? What happened to the efforts?” he asked.

Compares Nigeria's Security Response With Military Intervention Abroad

The foundation president further questioned what he described as the disparity between the government's response to domestic security threats and its ability to mobilise military resources for operations beyond Nigeria's borders.

He referred to Nigeria's military intervention in the Benin Republic following a reported coup attempt, arguing that the speed with which the government mobilised security personnel for the regional operation raised questions about the prolonged captivity of kidnapping victims within the country.

According to him, the government demonstrated its capacity to deploy military and air force resources swiftly when the situation demanded intervention in a neighbouring country.

He contrasted that response with the experiences of Nigerian families whose relatives had allegedly remained in captivity for extended periods while awaiting rescue.

“Within 24 hours, the government of Nigeria that cannot be able to capture one kidnapper gave instructions to the military and the Air Force and all machineries. The government sent them to Benin Republic to go and restore peace and return back the president of that country. It didn't take more than 48 hours,” he said.

Iche's comparison centred on the speed of government mobilisation and the need to demonstrate similar urgency in protecting Nigerian citizens from kidnappers and bandits.

He questioned why security operations against criminal groups appeared to take considerably longer in some domestic cases, urging the authorities to explain the challenges affecting rescue efforts.

Imo Abduction: Advocate Questions Conflicting Ransom Accounts

Iche also cited the abduction of citizens in Imo State, alleging that their release came after several weeks and that conflicting accounts emerged regarding whether ransom had been paid.

He said the Imo State Government and the Federal Government reportedly maintained that no ransom was paid, while families of the abducted persons allegedly claimed that millions of naira had been paid to secure their release.

The advocate argued that such discrepancies deserved clarification, insisting that the government should provide Nigerians with a transparent account of what happened during the victims' captivity and the circumstances surrounding their eventual release.

He maintained that conflicting accounts could deepen public distrust, particularly when families directly affected by kidnapping incidents offer explanations that differ from official narratives.

However, the ransom allegations remain claims attributed to Iche and the families he referenced and would require independent verification before being treated as established facts.

For the human rights advocate, the central issue is not only whether ransom was paid but also whether the government can demonstrate that its security operations are effective, accountable and capable of preventing future abductions.

Allegation of Possible Negotiations With Kidnappers

The foundation president also questioned what the term rescue means in cases where abducted persons are eventually released after spending considerable time in captivity.

He asked whether such releases result from direct security confrontations with kidnappers, negotiations, or other arrangements that may not be fully disclosed to the public.

Iche argued that Nigerians should be able to understand the broad circumstances surrounding the release of abducted citizens, especially when official explanations appear inconsistent with accounts from victims or their relatives.

He also referenced an allegation reportedly made by a teacher connected to one of the abduction cases in Imo State.

According to Iche, the teacher allegedly claimed that on the day the kidnappers announced that the captives were free, they moved the victims to another location before people he described as the kidnappers' business partners, allegedly linked to the government, arrived to take them away.

The allegation, as relayed by Iche, raises serious questions that would require independent investigation. No evidence was presented in the statement to establish that government officials were involved in the kidnapping operation or had any relationship with the alleged abductors.

Iche nevertheless insisted that the government should address public concerns about how some victims are released and clarify whether negotiations form part of the process in particular cases.

“The government should come out clean and tell Nigerians that they know what is happening,” he said.

His remarks reflect broader concerns about accountability in the fight against kidnapping, including the need to distinguish between verified security operations, negotiated releases and unsubstantiated allegations of official complicity.

Calls for Greater Accountability in Fight Against Insecurity

Iche urged the government to strengthen its response to kidnapping and banditry, arguing that the prolonged captivity of victims and uncertainty surrounding their release have placed additional pressure on affected families.

He questioned the effectiveness of current security measures and called for more decisive action against criminal networks responsible for abductions.

He also suggested that the government needed to communicate more openly with the public about the challenges confronting security agencies and the results of operations undertaken to rescue victims.

According to him, public confidence in the authorities depends not only on announcements that abducted persons have been released but also on credible explanations of how such outcomes were achieved and what steps are being taken to prevent similar incidents.

He maintained that the government must demonstrate a stronger commitment to protecting lives and ensuring that perpetrators of kidnapping and banditry are brought to justice.

His comments underscore the need for the government to address public concerns about insecurity through measurable action, transparent communication and effective accountability mechanisms.

While Iche's allegations regarding kidnapping operations, ransom payments and possible links between abductors and government officials require independent verification, his central demand is that the authorities provide credible explanations for prolonged abductions, demonstrate the effectiveness of rescue operations and strengthen efforts to protect citizens.

The government and relevant security agencies would need to respond to the specific allegations raised, particularly those concerning the circumstances of the reported abductions and releases in Oyo and Imo states, to provide a fuller account of the incidents.

African Eagle Transport Challenges Repeated NDLEA Interceptions, Extortion After Search Yields No Drugs

By Primetime Reports

The management of African Eagle Transport has accused officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Lagos State Command, of alleged extortion following the interception and search of a truck conveying customers' goods on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

The company alleged that the incident, which reportedly resulted in the payment of ₦1 million before the goods were reloaded, was part of a pattern of repeated interceptions affecting shipping and cargo transportation businesses in Lagos and its environs.

The truck was reportedly intercepted following intelligence suggesting that it was carrying illicit drugs. However, representatives of the National Compliance Joint Task Force of Licensed Agents, who witnessed the search, said the officers failed to discover any illicit substances during the examination.

The task force intervened at the request of the truck owner to establish the reason for the detention and ensure that the search was conducted in accordance with the law.

Task Force Questions Search Procedure

Speaking during the intervention, Barrister Barnabas C. Okoro, a legal practitioner and National Legal Adviser of the National Compliance Joint Task Force of Licensed Agents, said the organisation accepted the NDLEA's decision to search the vehicle because it recognised the agency's statutory responsibility to combat drug trafficking.

He explained that the task force approached the officers upon arrival and was informed that the truck had been intercepted on suspicion of carrying illicit substances.

According to Okoro, the representatives did not obstruct the search but insisted that it be conducted in their presence.

He said the officers searched the truck for several hours but reportedly found nothing that could be classified as an illicit drug.

Okoro, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the manual method of inspection, alleging that the officers assembled approximately 30 to 40 labourers to unload and examine the goods.

He argued that modern inspection procedures should incorporate appropriate scanning technology where available to minimise delays and prevent damage to legitimate consignments.

The legal adviser said some goods were reportedly handled roughly during the exercise, raising concerns about possible losses to the owners.

The situation became more difficult when heavy rainfall began during the search, leaving the company concerned about the condition of customers' goods.

Okoro maintained that while the NDLEA had the right to investigate suspicious consignments, its operations should be conducted professionally and without unnecessary damage to property.

₦1 Million Payment Allegedly Made

The most serious allegation concerns the reported demand for and payment of ₦1 million before the goods were reloaded onto the truck.

According to the account provided to this reporter, the payment was allegedly made despite the search reportedly yielding no illicit drugs.

The circumstances surrounding the alleged transaction, including who requested and received the money and whether any official documentation was issued, require further verification.

The allegations have not been independently established, and the NDLEA Lagos State Command should be given an opportunity to respond before publication.

Okoro said the transport company had complained about previous interceptions, which it alleged were disrupting its operations and, in some instances, involved extortion.

He explained that the task force intervened because the company wanted to establish why its trucks were repeatedly being intercepted.

According to him, the organisation would not interfere with legitimate enforcement activities but would investigate complaints where there were indications of arbitrary action, extortion or other irregularities.

He also stressed that the task force would not protect any truck owner found to be violating the law.

Rainfall Forces Suspension of Search

During the operation, a representative of African Eagle Transport explained that the officers had examined a substantial portion of the consignment without discovering anything incriminating.

The representative estimated that between 50 and 70 per cent of the goods had been examined, although that estimate was not independently verified.

He said the company was concerned about leaving the goods exposed to the rain after several hours of searching.

According to him, the officers indicated that they would consult their superiors on whether the examination should continue the following day.

The company sought permission to reload the goods to prevent further exposure to the weather.

The reported outcome was that the goods were eventually reloaded after the alleged ₦1 million payment. The circumstances of the payment and the terms under which the goods were released remain matters requiring clarification.

Task Force Considers Further Action

Asked whether the organisation intended to initiate legal proceedings against the NDLEA, Okoro said the task force was an interventionist body and that further action would depend on the affected company's decision and the details of any subsequent complaint.

He explained that the organisation had come to the scene at the truck owner's invitation and would consider further steps if the company submitted a complaint supported by details of alleged extortion or damage to its goods.

Representatives present during the intervention included Lawal Alaba, National President; Chief Emeka Dennis, Founder and Board of Trustees member; Barrister Barnabas C. Okoro, National Legal Adviser; Hashim Adaba, Zonal Secretary, Seme Chapter; and A.O. Vincent, Head of Administration and Operations, alongside other members.

The organisation describes itself as an advocacy group committed to promoting transparency, accountability and lawful business practices in Nigeria's maritime industry and border operations.

NDLEA's Response Sought

The incident has raised questions about the handling of cargo inspections, the protection of customers' property and the need for transparency when law enforcement agencies intercept commercial consignments.

While the NDLEA has a statutory responsibility to investigate suspected drug trafficking, allegations of unofficial payments and damage to legitimate goods warrant appropriate scrutiny.

The NDLEA Lagos State Command should clarify the intelligence that prompted the interception, the outcome of the search, the circumstances surrounding the reported ₦1 million payment and the procedure followed before the goods were released.

The agency's response is essential to establishing a complete and balanced account of the incident. The allegations against its officers should not be treated as established facts without corroborating evidence.

African Eagle Transport, meanwhile, is seeking an end to what it describes as repeated and unnecessary interceptions of its trucks, which it says disrupt business operations and expose customers' goods to potential losses.

The company's determination to involve the National Compliance Joint Task Force reflects its stated intention to seek accountability and prevent a recurrence.

The reported extortion, payment and damage to goods remain allegations requiring independent verification and NDLEA's response.

South-West Youths Declare Support for Adewole Adebayo, Say Nigeria Needs New Leadership in 2027

By Naomi Onome

The South-West Voters Association of Nigerian Youths (SWAVANY) has endorsed the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Dr. Adewole Adebayo, as its preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

The group announced the endorsement on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, following what it described as a three-month internal democratic process involving manifesto scrutiny, consultations and town hall meetings with youths, students, artisans, market women, farmers and professionals across the South-West.

According to SWAVANY, the decision followed its assessment of the character, competence, capacity and policy proposals of leading presidential aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.

The group, which claimed to have structures across the 137 local government areas and more than 1,500 wards in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states, said Nigeria was at a critical crossroads and required leadership capable of addressing the country's economic, security and social challenges.

SWAVANY expressed concern over rising poverty and the cost of living, insecurity, unemployment, energy challenges, the state of public education and healthcare, as well as what it described as the continued exclusion of young Nigerians from political leadership and decision-making.

The association said its choice of Adebayo was influenced by his policy proposals on job creation, agriculture, housing, manufacturing and the digital economy.

It specifically cited his proposal to create 30 million jobs and his commitment to direct investment in Nigerians as reasons for its support.

On security, the group said Adebayo's stated plans to recruit, train and equip security personnel, deploy technology and strengthen community-based security structures aligned with its expectations for a safer Nigeria.

SWAVANY also expressed support for the SDP candidate's position on domestic refining and energy, saying his proposal to rehabilitate existing refineries and encourage modular refineries could reduce the country's dependence on imported refined petroleum products.

The group further said it was persuaded by what it described as Adebayo's commitment to the rule of law, accountability and anti-corruption, as well as his proposal to increase youth and female participation in government.

SWAVANY also referenced Adebayo's manifesto presentation in Ibadan, Oyo State, describing the choice of the city as significant because of its historical importance in the progressive political tradition associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Following the endorsement, the association directed its state, zonal, local government and ward coordinators, as well as canvassers and polling-unit mobilisers, to commence grassroots mobilisation for Adebayo and the SDP ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The group said it was targeting a minimum of six million votes from youths across the South-West for the SDP presidential candidate.

It also called on Afenifere youth groups, student unions, artisans, market associations and other progressive-minded Nigerians in the region to support its campaign for Adebayo.

The statement was signed by Otunba Subomi Kolawole, President/Convener of SWAVANY, and Arowosomo Ayomide Aderayo, Director of Mobilization and Strategy.

Read Also:Nigerian Maritime Under Siege: As Pen Wielding Blackmailer Goes On Rampage

SWAVANY expressed confidence that an Adebayo presidency would address insecurity, reduce poverty and promote what it described as a new Nigeria that works for all.

Pinecrest Calls for State of Emergency on Laboratory Quality Assurance in Nigeria

By Naomi Onome

Pinecrest Healthcare Limited has called on the Federal Government and state governments to declare a state of emergency on quality assurance in medical laboratory practice across Nigeria, warning that inaccurate laboratory results could have serious consequences for diagnosis, treatment and patient safety.

The Managing Director of Pinecrest Healthcare Limited, Dr Chijioke Onyia, made the call on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at a press briefing to announce the company’s inaugural Quality Assurance Summit scheduled for October 10.

The summit, themed “From Bench to Benchmark – Raising Laboratory Quality Standards for Patient Care,” is designed to bring healthcare professionals and other stakeholders together to examine the importance of quality assurance in medical laboratory practice, identify existing gaps and explore practical approaches to improving diagnostic accuracy, reliability and patient safety.

According to Onyia, the theme reflects the need for medical laboratories to move beyond merely producing test results to developing systems in which quality is continuously measured, monitored, improved and demonstrated.

He said the ultimate objective of laboratory quality assurance was not simply to produce technically acceptable results but to ensure better patient care.

“From bench to benchmark represents a call for laboratories to move beyond merely performing tests to developing systems in which quality is continuously measured, monitored, improved and demonstrated,” he said.

Onyia explained that laboratory investigations were central to modern healthcare because their results influence clinical diagnosis, treatment decisions, disease monitoring and assessment of patient outcomes.

He warned that an inaccurate or unreliable laboratory result could have serious implications for a patient, stressing that quality assurance must therefore cover the entire analytical pathway.

He said this should begin from the moment a test is requested and the patient prepared, through sample collection and transportation, analysis, result validation, reporting and clinical interpretation.

The Pinecrest MD said the summit would examine how healthcare institutions could strengthen each of these components as part of a sustainable quality management system.

He listed the key areas of discussion at the summit as quality assurance in modern laboratory practice; people, process and technology as the three drivers of laboratory excellence; quality beyond compliance and making quality a culture rather than a checklist; practical illustration of external quality assurance and proficiency testing services; as well as a panel discussion on quality assurance in medical laboratory practice.

Onyia stressed that quality should not be treated merely as a regulatory obligation or an exercise undertaken only when laboratories were preparing for inspection or accreditation.

He said sustainable quality required a culture in which every member of a laboratory team understood how his or her actions could affect the reliability of a result and, ultimately, the quality of care received by a patient.

“Compliance is important, but sustainable quality requires something deeper. It requires a culture of quality in which every member of the laboratory team understands how his or her actions can affect the reliability of a laboratory result and ultimately the care received by a patient,” he said.

He added that Pinecrest Healthcare believed that raising laboratory quality standards required collaboration among governments, regulators, laboratory medicine professionals, healthcare institutions and other stakeholders.

The summit is expected to attract medical laboratory scientists, pathologists, clinicians and physicians, laboratory managers, hospital managers and administrators, regulatory and government agencies, professional associations, academia and training institutions, diagnostic laboratories, medical equipment and in-vitro diagnostics companies, quality assurance professionals, members of the media and other healthcare professionals interested in laboratory quality.

Every laboratory result represents a patient

Onyia said the summit would adopt a patient-centred approach, stressing that behind every laboratory specimen was a human being waiting for an answer that could determine the course of his or her treatment.

He said a laboratory result could determine whether a patient received medication, underwent a procedure, was admitted to hospital, was discharged, received further investigation or was reassured.

“Every medical laboratory result represents a patient. Behind every specimen is a person waiting for an answer,” he said.

According to him, laboratory quality is therefore not merely about machines, reagents, procedures or numbers but about people and ensuring that healthcare professionals can make clinical decisions with confidence.

He said the quality of laboratory diagnosis was particularly important to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system because lapses in laboratory diagnosis could affect every other stage of patient care.

“If they get it right, everybody will move in the right direction. If they get it wrong, every other person in the care process will also move in the wrong direction. The doctors move in the wrong direction, the nurses will move in the wrong direction, and the pharmacists will move in the wrong direction,” he said.

Onyia cited cases in which patients could receive conflicting genotype results from laboratories or be wrongly diagnosed and treated for one condition when they were suffering from another.

He gave the example of a patient with stomach or colon cancer potentially being treated for gastric ulcer because of diagnostic lapses.

He argued that improving laboratory quality assurance would help ensure that diagnoses made in Nigeria could be relied upon by healthcare providers, including when patients travelled abroad for further treatment.

According to him, the problem was not the competence of Nigerian doctors, many of whom excel when practising abroad, but the quality of the diagnostic processes supporting clinical decisions.

“It is still the Nigerian doctors that go abroad and excel. Why are they not excelling here the way they will excel abroad? One of the major reasons is in the quality of the diagnosis process,” he said.

Pinecrest partners Medical Laboratory Science Council

Responding to questions on the regulation and licensing of medical laboratories, Onyia clarified that the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) is the statutory body responsible for registering and regulating the practice of medical laboratory science in Nigeria.

He said Pinecrest Healthcare Limited was working closely with the Council and other stakeholders in promoting quality assurance.

According to him, the MLSCN had been informed about the forthcoming summit and had been invited to participate.

He said the partnership was not new, recalling that Pinecrest and the Council had collaborated about a decade ago on advocacy workshops focused on quality assurance.

“In 2016, Medical Laboratory Science Council partnered with Pinecrest Healthcare Limited to mount advocacy workshops in the area of quality assurance across four regions of the country,” Onyia said.

He explained that the workshops were held in Abuja, Lagos, Enugu and Port Harcourt, with international experts brought in to discuss different aspects of quality assurance and the components that could be implemented in medical laboratory practice.

He added that Pinecrest and the Council had continued to have other engagements on quality assurance since then.

Onyia said the summit was not intended to create new licensing criteria for medical laboratories because the requirements and conditions for licensing are already established and regulated by the MLSCN.

Rather, he said, the objective was to bring quality assurance to the forefront of discussions around medical laboratory practice and ensure that it occupied a central position in efforts to improve healthcare delivery.

He also said Pinecrest was collaborating with other stakeholders involved in quality assurance to ensure that laboratory results could be trusted by doctors and other healthcare providers.

Concern over poorly equipped laboratories

In response to diverse questions of concern asked by  journalists during the briefing, Onyia reiterated that the regulatory and licensing framework for medical laboratories already falls within the mandate of the MLSCN.

He said the focus of the summit would instead be on strengthening compliance with quality assurance standards and promoting a culture in which quality becomes part of everyday laboratory operations.

Call for government action

Onyia urged governments at the national and sub-national levels to provide adequate resources to enable medical laboratories to implement robust and globally acceptable quality assurance protocols.

He also called on relevant regulatory bodies to ensure that laboratories complied with minimum quality assurance standards and urged all stakeholders to collectively advocate for strict implementation of quality assurance throughout medical laboratory practice.

“Our wish is that governments at all levels and all stakeholders in medical laboratory practice should declare a state of emergency in the area of quality assurance in medical laboratory practice in Nigeria,” he said.

“We at Pinecrest believe that raising laboratory quality is a collective responsibility. Government, regulators, laboratory medicine professionals and healthcare institutions all have a role to play.”

He said Pinecrest’s long-term aspiration was to see Nigerian medical laboratory practice reach a point where quality becomes a culture and not just a checklist.

The Quality Assurance Summit is also part of activities marking Pinecrest Healthcare Limited’s 20th anniversary and is being presented as the company’s contribution to strengthening the standards of medical laboratory practice in Nigeria.

Onyia said Pinecrest intended to make the Quality Assurance Summit an annual event.

He invited members of the media to attend and engage with healthcare professionals, speakers and representatives of Pinecrest Healthcare on issues concerning laboratory quality and patient care.

The event, he said, would also provide an opportunity for the media to highlight the importance of reliable diagnostics and the role laboratory quality plays in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The summit will hold on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. It will be a hybrid event, with the physical session scheduled to take place at Welcome Center Hotel, International Airport Road, Lagos, while the virtual component will be hosted via Zoom.

Read more on;
https://primetimereports.com.ng/pinecrest-calls-for-state-of-emergency-on-laboratory-quality-assurance-in-nigeria/

Snake Island Crisis: Coalition Accuses Nigerdock of Land Grab, Demands Probe Into N500m Payment

N500m Dispute Deepens as Snake Island Communities Accuse Nigerdock of Marginalization

By Naomi Onome

A coalition of civil society organisations and residents of Igbologun, Igboeseyore and Igbosu communities in Snake Island, Lagos, has accused the management of Nigerdock Nigeria Plc led by the CEO, Maher Jarmakani of alleged land encroachment, marginalization and failure to honour agreements reached with the affected communities.

The coalition also called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to expedite its investigation into allegations surrounding the payment and disbursement of N500 million said to belong to the communities.

The demands were contained in a statement presented at a world press conference signed by Comrade Olusegun Adeeko, Chairman/Lead Activist, and Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, National President, Ambassador for Peace Enlightenment Foundation.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMgMN0MgDkI?si=0yrdmYfM2Fklr3j3

The coalition alleged that Nigerdock had occupied and utilised a large expanse of land belonging to the communities and subsequently granted part of the area as a concession to SICT FEZ for the construction of a terminal by ITB FEZ, without what it described as the required consent and compensation to the traditional authority and affected communities.

It further alleged that the development had created a fresh dispute over land ownership, compensation and community rights in an area where the communities have raised concerns over what they described as decades of marginalization.

According to the coalition, the affected communities had entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with Nigerdock on February 27, 2004, but alleged that the terms of the agreement had not been implemented.

The coalition said it had attached a copy of the 2004 agreement as Annexure A to its submission and maintained that the document should be considered in resolving the current dispute.

A major aspect of the controversy, according to the coalition, concerns the alleged payment of N500 million to a community development association.

The group alleged that N200 million was paid on December 8, 2022, while subsequent payments of N50 million, N100 million and N150 million were made on July 30, 2024, July 31, 2024 and February 5, 2025 respectively, bringing the total to N500 million.

The coalition claimed that some members of the communities had protested the initial payment and called on Nigerdock to halt further disbursement until questions surrounding representation and entitlement were resolved.

It alleged that the payment was eventually completed despite the concerns raised by some community stakeholders.

The coalition also accused Mr Abayomi Oyewole, identified as Nigerdock's Executive Director, Community Relations and Development, of allegedly playing a central role in the handling of the disputed payment.

It alleged that Oyewole presented a 2022 Memorandum of Understanding to EFCC investigators as the basis for the payment, rather than the February 27, 2004 agreement which the coalition said was signed by Nigerdock and accredited representatives of the communities.

The coalition therefore urged the EFCC to investigate the circumstances surrounding the two documents, the authority under which the N500 million was paid, the beneficiaries and the manner in which the money was disbursed.

It also called for Mr Oyewole to step aside from his community-relations responsibilities pending the outcome of the investigation.

The group said its petition to the EFCC was dated May 12, 2026 and alleged that the petition was assigned to an investigative officer simply identified as 'Officer Ekpeyoung' for further investigation.

However, the coalition accused the investigator 'Officer Ekpeyoung' of conducting what it described as a "monologue investigation", alleging that all relevant parties had not been brought together to properly address the conflicting claims.

It further alleged that some of the questions directed at the complainants appeared to focus on how about N3.8 million received by some community representatives was spent, rather than the larger questions surrounding the N500 million.

The coalition said it had submitted documents and other evidence to the EFCC and called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation.

Dispute over Igbologun Baaleship

Another major issue raised at the press conference was the longstanding dispute over the traditional leadership of Igbologun.

Chief Moses Olayiwola Olaleye, who identified himself as the recognised Baale of Igbologun, accused Adams Lateef Oluwo of allegedly presenting himself as Baale and using the position to participate in negotiations concerning the disputed funds.

Olaleye said the issue of the Baaleship was already before the courts and maintained that his emergence followed what he described as the recognised traditional process.

He said the Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom remained the consenting traditional authority whose role could not be ignored in matters concerning the land.

The coalition alleged that the disputed leadership position was used to facilitate negotiations with Nigerdock and the subsequent handling of the N500 million.

The group, however, acknowledged that the Baaleship dispute remains subject to judicial proceedings.

Community alleges exclusion from negotiations

Mr Ridwan Adisa Olaleye, a representative of Igbologun Community, gave another account of the dispute, saying that some sections of the community were allegedly excluded from negotiations involving Nigerdock.

According to him, Igbologun comprises different sections, including Okemedu and Adubebu, and not all sections were involved in the discussions that eventually resulted in the disputed agreement and payment.

Adisa alleged that representatives of some sections had previously informed other stakeholders that they would not participate in negotiations because of their position concerning the Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom.

He said this disagreement subsequently became one of the sources of tension over the sharing of benefits and compensation associated with Nigerdock's operations.

He further alleged that community representatives only became aware of some of the negotiations after they had already taken place.

The coalition said this demonstrated the need for a transparent and inclusive process in determining legitimate representatives of the affected communities.

Land encroachment allegation

The coalition also raised concerns over what it described as the alleged expansion of Nigerdock's operations beyond the area covered by the Federal Government acquisition.

It claimed that the land occupied by the company extended beyond the area covered by the relevant government acquisition and alleged that the additional land was subsequently made available for the proposed SICT FEZ terminal.

The coalition called on Nigerdock to suspend the alleged concession and halt further construction by ITB FEZ pending the resolution of the ownership and compensation questions.

It also appealed to the relevant government authorities to establish the exact boundaries of the acquired land and determine whether any portion of the communities' ancestral land had been encroached upon.

The coalition said it was particularly concerned that the Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, as well as some affected community leaders, were allegedly not adequately involved in the process.

'Second slavery'

Describing the alleged conditions in the area as a form of "second slavery", the coalition also raised concerns about employment practices within Nigerdock.

It alleged that a significant proportion of the company's workforce were casual workers and called for greater employment opportunities and improved working conditions for indigenes of the affected communities.

The coalition argued that communities hosting major industrial and maritime operations should benefit through employment, infrastructure, education, healthcare and other forms of corporate social responsibility.

Communities' demands

The coalition presented a 15-point list of demands, including an immediate halt to the alleged encroachment and the proposed concession to SICT FEZ pending resolution of the dispute.

It demanded a thorough investigation into the N500 million payment and called for accountability where wrongdoing is established.

The communities also demanded N5 billion in compensation for what they described as over four decades of uninterrupted occupation and utilisation of their land.

Other demands include extension of the company's electricity supply to the communities, provision of potable water, construction of standard jetties at Igbologun and Ibafon, provision of boats and barges, and monthly allowances for Baales and chiefs.

They also requested annual scholarships for indigent and brilliant students, construction of a standard residence for the Baale, employment opportunities for indigenes and improved corporate social responsibility from companies operating within the Nigerdock complex.

The communities further demanded the provision of streetlights, recreational facilities, science and laboratory equipment for schools, women and youth empowerment programmes, healthcare centres in the affected villages and opportunities for community members to participate in contracts, labour and equipment supply.

They also called for a structured toll arrangement for heavy-duty vehicles entering the terminal, greater involvement of community representatives in community-relations positions and employment of women, youths and elders from the host communities.

The coalition said it was not opposed to legitimate investment or development in the area but insisted that development must respect the rights of host communities and the authority of recognised traditional institutions.

The group urged the management of Nigerdock, relevant government agencies and the EFCC to address the allegations transparently and ensure that any legitimate agreements reached with the communities are implemented.

Those identified as attending the press conference included Mr Sikiru Jelili, representative of Igbo Esore Community; Waheed Rufai, representative of Igbo Osu Community; Chief Moses Olayiwola Olaleye, Baale of Igbologun; Chief Onikoyi Jamiu Cole, Balogun of Igbologun; Mr Ridwan Adisa, representative of Igbologun Community; and Mr Ahmed Olayiwola, also representing Igbologun Community.

Read more on:

https://primetimereports.com.ng/n500m-dispute-deepens-as-snake-island-communities-accuse-nigerdock-of-marginalization/

Conflicting Acquisition Notices, No Payment Evidence: Okokomaiko Residents Challenge LAMATA in Court

...As Retiree Slumps in Court

By Naomi Onome

The legal battle between residents of Okokomaiko and adjoining communities and the Lagos State Government over threatened demolition of their properties took a fresh turn on Friday, October 2, 2026, as the affected residents challenged the legality of the acquisition process, alleged failure to pay adequate compensation and the continued demolition of properties despite a court injunction.

The residents, drawn from Church Estate 1 and 2, Igbeyinadun Community, Jubilee Estate and other adjoining areas, said their homes represented lifetime investments and retirement security and should not be taken without due process.

Counsel to the residents, Barrister Femi Dodo, told the court that the government had failed to establish credible evidence that the affected properties were properly acquired or that compensation had actually been paid.

According to him, there are conflicting notices of acquisition contained in the documents relied upon by the government, while there is allegedly no evidence that the notices were properly served on the affected property owners.

Dodo also challenged the alleged evidence of compensation, arguing that photographs of people shaking hands could not constitute proof that money was paid.

He maintained that evidence of actual payment should include bank transfers, bank drafts, bank tellers or other verifiable financial records showing that the affected owners received compensation.

The lawyer stressed that while government has the right to acquire private property for public purposes, such acquisition must comply with due process and be accompanied by adequate compensation.

“We are not saying that we are against development. We are for development. We are not saying the government does not have the right to acquire people's property. But my property should not go for public interest without compensation,” he said.

Residents Reject Meeting at Oba Jafo's Palace

The controversy also took a new dimension over a proposed stakeholders' meeting on compensation.

According to the residents, some stakeholders from the affected communities were invited to the palace of the Iba of Oniba, Oba Jafo, for discussions concerning compensation.

The residents, however, reportedly refused to attend, questioning why a matter involving LAMATA and the Lagos State Government should be discussed at the palace of a traditional ruler rather than through the appropriate government authorities.

They argued that Oba Jafo was not LAMATA and could therefore not serve as the authority responsible for negotiating or determining compensation for properties being acquired for the project.

The residents and their representatives viewed the arrangement with suspicion, alleging that it could be part of an attempt to pressure property owners into accepting what they described as inadequate compensation.

Dodo, while discussing the matter, alleged that the circumstances surrounding the acquisition and compensation process raised concerns about a possible attempt to dispossess residents of their properties for little or no meaningful compensation.

The residents insist that any compensation process must be transparent, directly handled by the appropriate authorities and supported by verifiable evidence of payment.

Demolitions Allegedly Continue Despite Injunction

The residents further alleged that demolitions and preparatory activities have continued in parts of the affected communities despite a court injunction which they say restrains further action.

Dodo said contractors allegedly linked to LAMATA had continued entering the communities with drilling equipment, sometimes accompanied by security personnel.

He disclosed that contempt proceedings had been initiated over the alleged violation of the court's orders.

The residents questioned how demolition could continue while the matter remains before the court, insisting that the continued activities have heightened fear and uncertainty among property owners.

They also pointed to about 52 acres of land which they said had already been acquired for the project but remained fallow and largely untouched, questioning why developed residential properties were being targeted when such land was available.

Retiree Slumps in Court

The human cost of the prolonged dispute was dramatically illustrated during an earlier court sitting on September 24, 2026, when an aged retiree among the affected residents reportedly slumped in court after several adjournments.

Dodo said the incident demonstrated the level of distress being experienced by residents who had spent decades working and investing their savings in properties intended to secure their retirement.

He said the elderly man survived the incident, while another affected resident was allegedly battling a debilitating stroke.

According to the lawyer, many of the affected property owners had no alternative retirement plans apart from the homes they built over the years.

The residents therefore fear that demolition without adequate compensation could leave elderly homeowners and families without shelter or financial security.

The residents had previously alleged that some property owners were pressured to sign documents relating to compensation, while claims that certain individuals had already been paid remained difficult to verify.

The Very Rev. Sunday Olugbenga Bello of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Okokomaiko branch, had also disputed claims that the church received compensation, saying documents indicating such payment were inaccurate.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government and LAMATA's position on the latest allegations was not contained in the material available for this report.

At the October 2 proceedings, the court heard arguments from the parties, including the residents' challenge to the government's position on acquisition, compensation and jurisdiction.

The matter was subsequently adjourned for judgment, with the date to be communicated.

For the affected residents, the dispute is not about opposing development but about whether the government can take their homes without strict adherence to due process, adequate compensation and respect for subsisting court orders.

As they await judgment, the residents say they remain determined to protect what they describe as their lifetime investments and retirement security.

Bebuzee Unveils Digital Super App in Lagos, Targets Africa’s Creative Economy

By Naomi Onome

Bebuzee, a digital technology platform combining social networking, entertainment, streaming, e-commerce, artificial intelligence and other digital services, has been unveiled in Lagos with a focus on expanding opportunities for African creators and users.

The platform was launched on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos, where leading figures in Nigeria’s film, television, technology and creative industries gathered to witness the unveiling.

Bebuzee describes itself as a digital ecosystem designed to bring multiple online experiences together on a single platform. Its services include SocialBuz, ShortBuz, Bebuzee Streaming, BBZ TV, BuzSense AI, AI Twin, ShoppingBuz, GIGBuz, ProperBuz, TradeBuz, TaxiBuz and Buz-Eat.

The platform also unveiled veteran and contemporary Nigerian entertainers, including Patience Ozokwor, Ebele Okaro, Jide Kosoko, Segun Arinze, Paul Obazele, Zubby Michael and Destiny Etiko, as brand ambassadors.

Speaking at the event, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bebuzee, Joseph Onyero, traced the idea behind the platform to 2004, when he and some friends in Cambridge developed a messaging-service concept that was never launched.

He said the emergence of similar social networking services later encouraged him to continue working on what he described as an ideal social media platform, eventually leading to the development of Bebuzee.

According to Onyero, the long-term vision is to build a digital utility platform for Africa, with Bebuzee targeting more than 400 million users across the continent as it expands its services and reach.

He said the platform was designed to enable users to communicate, create content, access entertainment, shop, work and earn income through multiple digital services.

Onyero said Bebuzee currently offers more than 15 products and services, providing opportunities for users to generate income through content creation, freelancing and other digital activities.

He also said Bebuzee Streaming, which he said is based in Amsterdam, focuses on African films and provides profiles that connect actors and actresses with their movies.

NFVCB DG urges protection of intellectual property, highlights distribution and monetisation challenges

Delivering the keynote address, Director-General of the National Film and Video Censors Board, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, said the major challenge facing Nigeria’s film industry was increasingly shifting from production to distribution and monetisation.

Husseini traced the evolution of Nollywood’s distribution channels from videocassettes and traditional film markets to VCDs, DVDs, cinemas, satellite television, YouTube and streaming platforms.

He said digital platforms had created opportunities for Nigerian and African stories to reach audiences in cities across the world, but stressed that global reach must be accompanied by quality, originality, strong intellectual property and effective monetisation.

He urged digital platforms to ensure that value generated from creative works flows back to the creators through proper contracts, copyright protection, licensing, revenue-sharing arrangements and transparency.

The NFVCB boss also reminded digital platforms that online distribution does not remove regulatory obligations, noting that films distributed or exhibited digitally remain subject to applicable laws and classification requirements.

He challenged Bebuzee to innovate responsibly, respect intellectual property, protect audiences, comply with regulatory requirements and create sustainable value for African creators.

Lagos Film and Video Censors Board speaks on AI

The growing influence of artificial intelligence on the creative industry also formed a major part of discussions at the launch.

Mrs. Bukola Agbaminoja, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, said although she initially took time to understand the rapid development of artificial intelligence, she had come to recognise its potential benefits to the creative sector.

Agbaminoja said AI could assist creatives in areas such as generating songs and voices, preparing reports and transforming scripts, stressing that the technology was already becoming part of the creative process.

She, however, called for greater engagement between creative practitioners, regulators and major digital platforms to address emerging challenges associated with artificial intelligence.

According to her, stakeholders should engage platforms such as YouTube and other social media companies while also organising conferences and structured discussions to develop practical ways of addressing misuse of AI.

She noted that individual creative associations might not have sufficient capacity to tackle the challenges alone and therefore needed to collaborate with regulators, technology companies and other relevant stakeholders.

Agbaminoja said AI was here to stay and that the industry should embrace its opportunities while putting measures in place to prevent abuse and protect creative works.

Her position is consistent with the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board’s broader emphasis on balancing creativity with compliance and supporting the growth of the film industry.

Industry leaders debate AI, actors' rights

The AI discussion also generated contributions from prominent actors and industry practitioners.

Veteran actor Jide Kosoko recalled that there were initially fears that new technologies could displace actors and other practitioners, but said the industry had repeatedly adapted to technological changes.

Actor Zubby Michael acknowledged his limited understanding of AI but said technological advancement could not be stopped and should be approached with an understanding of both its opportunities and potential risks.

Patience Ozokwor raised concerns about the use of actors’ images and voices in AI-generated content, stressing that performers should be properly compensated whenever their identities, voices or likenesses are commercially exploited.

Other participants discussed the possibility of creating voice banks where voice artists could register their voices, agree to specific terms and receive payment when their voices were licensed for use.

They also raised concerns about deepfakes, unauthorised use of voices and images, and the potential loss of commercial opportunities for actors if advertisers increasingly turn to AI-generated personalities.

Zeb Ejiro noted that AI could affect different parts of the creative production chain, including scriptwriting, acting and make-up, stressing the need for the various professional associations to work together in protecting practitioners.

Participants also called for collaboration with relevant regulatory and technology institutions to develop safeguards around AI-generated content, voice cloning, deepfakes, copyright and data protection.

NTA, Bebuzee announce strategic engagement, digital collaboration

The Zonal Director of the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA Lagos Network Centre, Dr. Evelyn Nwosu, said the broadcaster was open to strategic partnerships capable of advancing Nigeria’s digital media ecosystem.

Nwosu, who described herself as both a representative of NTA and a theatre practitioner, said she was particularly pleased to witness the launch and celebrate veterans and other practitioners who had contributed to Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

She said the media environment was rapidly shifting towards digital convergence, on-demand content and mobile consumption, adding that NTA was exploring ways to modernise its operations and align its traditional broadcasting reach with emerging digital platforms.

Nwosu welcomed Bebuzee to Lagos and expressed optimism that collaboration between established media institutions and new technology platforms could create measurable opportunities for young Nigerians and the wider creative economy.

Bebuzee promises opportunities for African creators, positions platform as African-focused ecosystem

Onyero said Bebuzee was designed to address some of the difficulties African creators face on existing digital platforms by providing more opportunities for monetisation and audience engagement.

He said the company intended its artificial intelligence tools to assist creators, editors and other users in improving productivity and generating more revenue.

He also highlighted the platform’s messaging, social networking, streaming, shopping, freelance, blogging, recipe and television services, describing Bebuzee as a comprehensive digital ecosystem.

The launch attracted several prominent figures from the Nigerian entertainment industry, including Jide Kosoko, Patience Ozokwor, Segun Arinze, Zeb Ejiro, Ejike Asiegbu, Emeka Duru, Fred Amata, Paul Obazele, Zubby Michael, Anita Joseph, Felix Duke and others.

Government and regulatory representatives at the event included Dr. Shaibu Husseini of the NFVCB, Dr. Evelyn Nwosu of NTA Lagos and Mrs. Bukola Agbaminoja of the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board.

The event underscored the growing intersection between technology and Nigeria’s creative economy, with participants emphasising the need to embrace digital innovation while ensuring that creators’ rights, intellectual property, audience protection and appropriate regulation remain central to the industry’s development.

Read more on:
https://primetimereports.com.ng/bebuzee-unveils-digital-super-app-in-lagos-targets-africas-creative-economy/

Iriji 2026: Eze Nwokedi Marks New Yam Festival With Massive Philanthropic Gesture, Supports the Elderly

By Naomi Onome

The Ezendigbo of Ijegun-Ijedodo and Eze Okpoko I of Obodoukwu, Eze Dr. Chika Nwokedi, has celebrated the 2026 Iriji (New Yam) Festival with a colourful gathering of traditional rulers, community leaders, titled men and women, cultural groups and other dignitaries in Lagos.

The annual celebration, held on September 20, 2026, combined the traditional rites of thanksgiving for a new harvest with prayers, cultural displays, entertainment and a major philanthropic gesture by the host.

One of the major highlights of the celebration was Nwokedi's distribution of bags of rice, semovita and other food items, Ankara materials, wristwatches and other gifts to guests and beneficiaries.

He also gave cash gifts totalling more than N200,000 to Beatrice Ngozi Ibundun, an elderly woman aged 72 years and other beneficiaries at the event, while encouraging other guests to support those in need.

Nwokedi said his philanthropy was not dependent on having enormous wealth, stressing that his philosophy of giving was rooted in his desire to touch lives and serve humanity.

According to him, his giving is also connected to his spiritual calling and a tradition handed down by his forefathers.

He recounted the story of an unindentified woman who attended the festival and offered N1,000 during the breaking of the kola nut. Nwokedi said he was moved to support her after sensing that the money she offered was all she had.

He subsequently gave her N100,000 and other gifts, after which other guests also contributed money to her, reportedly raising her total benefit to about N400,000.

Nwokedi said the woman later confirmed that she had borrowed money to attend the event because she was determined to see him, having benefited from his generosity on previous occasions.

He said the incident reinforced his belief that acts of kindness can create opportunities for people in unexpected ways.

"I don't have massive wealth, but I have the heart of giving," Nwokedi said, adding that he believes every person would eventually be accountable for the lives they touched during their lifetime.

He explained that Iriji represents thanksgiving for life, harvest and divine protection, noting that traditional rites preceding the feast, including the sacrifice of animals, symbolise thanksgiving and prayers for protection.

He also referred to the biblical account in Exodus 12:13, where God told the Israelites: "And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you."

Nwokedi said the passage informs his understanding of the symbolism of blood in the traditional prayers associated with the festival.

Speaking on the importance of preserving Iriji among Igbos in the diaspora, he urged people to sustain their culture according to their circumstances and convictions.

He cautioned that people should not engage in activities beyond their means simply because others were doing so, stressing that philanthropy should be guided by one's capacity and calling.

The cultural significance of the festival was also highlighted by Mr. Charles Kelechi Nelson Ngbe, Chairman of Ndi-Igbo in Ijegun-Ijedodo.

Ngbe described the New Yam Festival as a period of thanksgiving to God for life and the opportunity to witness another harvest.

He urged Igbo youths to learn their language, customs and traditions and pass them on to their children, warning that people who lose touch with their roots could eventually become strangers to their own heritage.

Other speakers similarly described yam as a central crop in traditional Igbo society and explained that the festival marks the commencement of eating the year's new harvest.

Barr. Ene Vincent Ifeanyichukwu described Nwokedi as a philanthropist whose activities provide an example for other Igbo leaders to emulate.

Chief Arinze Opkara, CEO of RH Mega Resources Limited, Ghana and Nigeria, who travelled from Ghana for the celebration, commended Nwokedi for promoting Igbo culture and bringing people together.

Opkara stressed the importance of preserving Igbo heritage among people living outside Nigeria, particularly by teaching children the Igbo language and traditions so that they would remain connected to their ancestral roots.

Newly coronated Super High Chief Urukanachukwu said his new title comes with a responsibility to promote unity, compassion and support for the less privileged.

He said he was inspired by the leadership and humanitarian example of Eze Okpoko 1, whom he described as a mentor. According to him, he intends to emulate the monarch by helping people in need, supporting those unable to meet their obligations and fostering unity among the Igbo.

Urukanachukwu also said the New Yam Festival provides an opportunity for Igbo people to reconnect, build relationships and strengthen their sense of community.

He expressed appreciation for the honour, saying he would continue to learn from Eze Okpoko 1 and use his new position to make a positive impact.

Similarly, Eze Chukwuemeka Sylvanus Onuoha, Ezendigbo of Iyana-Iba, described the festival as an avenue for Igbo children to learn their customs and traditions.

He appealed to Igbo leaders and cultural organisations to prioritise unity, saying disputes and supremacy struggles should not overshadow the original purpose of organisations established to promote peace, cultural preservation and mutual assistance.

Eze Okparaku Boniface, Bobaselu of Ikotun Land, said the New Yam Festival remained an important part of Igbo traditional heritage and should be preserved without infringing on the culture and laws of host communities.

He particularly encouraged parents in the diaspora to teach their children the Igbo language, saying language remains an important part of cultural identity.

The festival also featured the breaking of kola nuts, traditional music and dances by members of the Igbo Speaking Community, Ohaneze Ndigbo and the Eze Okpoko dance group, as well as the ceremonial eating of the new yam.

Among those who attended were Eze Monday Lawrence Obijogu, popularly known as Eze Monday Lawrence Obi JP or Ezedioranma 1; Eze Okparaku Boniface; Eze Chukwuemeka Sylvanus Onuoha; Barr. Ene Vincent Ifeanyichukwu; palace chiefs; members and executives of the Igbo Speaking Community and Ohaneze Ndigbo; representatives of various associations; and security personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police and NSCDC.

Goat Sacrifice Symbolises Thanksgiving, Protection

Explaining the significance of the goat sacrifice conducted before the festival, Chief Chika Victor Okeoma said the ritual was performed as a covenant and prayer for the protection of members of the traditional cabinet, their wives, children and the wider community.

He said the shedding of the animal's blood symbolised a prayer that members of the community would be protected from death and other misfortunes throughout 2026.

According to Okeoma, the sacrifice is part of the traditional observance accompanying the New Yam Festival in his community.

Chief Chukwuemeka Ezurike, founder and leader of Obi Udo Traditional Association, similarly explained that, in some traditional settings, an animal such as a cow, goat or fowl is sacrificed before the new yam is eaten.

He said the practice represents thanksgiving for being alive to witness another harvest and a prayer for continued protection and guidance into another year.

Ezurike explained that the New Yam Festival is primarily a celebration of harvest and an important aspect of Igbo cultural heritage. He said yam is traditionally regarded as the "king of crops" because of its historical importance in Igbo society.

Chief Emeka Onwukaobi, the Onowu of Ijegun-Ijedodo, also described the festival as a cultural tradition handed down from generations, noting that yam occupies a special position in Igbo society.

He explained that the festival traditionally marks the period when people begin to eat the year's newly harvested yam after the required cultural observances have been performed.

The explanations about the sacrifice reflected traditional beliefs expressed by the participants that the ritual serves as thanksgiving and a symbolic plea for protection against death and misfortune. The practice, however, varies among Igbo communities.

Chief Godwin Anaeme (Akajiofo) explained that the sacrifice of the goat symbolises the shedding of blood in place of human lives. He said the act is rooted in the belief that God instructed that a ram be offered on His altar. According to him, the sacrifice represents protection, as the goat’s blood is believed to stand in place of human blood and cleanse the community of evil plans and afflictions attributed to the devil.

For Nwokedi, the 2026 Iriji celebration went beyond the eating of new yam. It became an occasion for thanksgiving, cultural preservation, community bonding and, most significantly, extending a helping hand to people in need.

Udobia Marks Birthday with Education Project, Hands Over Ultra-Modern Facility to Iwuoachang Secondary School

By Primetime Reports 

Iwuoachang Community in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State was agog during the official handing over of an Ultra Modern furnished Classrooms and Staff offices to Iwuoachang Community Secondary School during the school resumption day.

It was a day of celebration, thanksgiving and renewed hope for the future of education.

The project, facilitated by the member representing Esit Eket/Ibeno State Constituency in the eighth Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. (Engr.) Udobia Friday Udo, was commissioned and formally handed over to the school on his birthday.

Located at the proposed site for the new school, the facility is designed to provide a more conducive learning environment and make teaching and learning more enjoyable, practical and effective for students and teachers.

Speaking during the ceremony, Udobia said he deliberately chose the first day of the new academic session to hand over the project so that the school community could begin using the facility immediately.

He said the occasion was particularly meaningful to him because he had always sought to mark his birthdays by making positive contributions to the lives of others.

“I thought it wise that today, being the resumption of school, I should present this facility so that students and teachers can make use of it,” he said.

According to him, every birthday should provide an opportunity to reflect on how lives can be positively affected, adding that the project was his way of giving back to the people he represents.

“On my birthdays', and I always try to impact lives positively. This year, I have come to hand over this project to the people of Iwuoachang and Ibeno, my constituency at large,” he said.

Udobia expressed appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, for the opportunity and support provided to members of the legislature to contribute to the development of their constituencies.

He also thanked the people of his constituency for their support and confidence in his leadership.

“When I was given the helm to represent Esit Eket/Ibeno State Constituency at the State House of Assembly, I decided to turn opportunity to advantage and to impact my people positively,” he said.

He explained that the decision to prioritise education was informed by the need to provide children in the area with better learning facilities and create an environment where they could learn with ease.

“I know the need for education and the need to help our children have where to get education, as well as to depopulate the very few classrooms we already have, so that learning would be breezy and enjoyable,”

Udobia described the project as a model that could inspire other stakeholders, government agencies and well-meaning individuals to invest in education.

He added that his vision was to see more parents enrol their children at Iwuoachang Community Secondary School in the coming years and to nurture a generation of young people capable of providing responsible leadership in the future.

“We set this up as a model so that other stakeholders, agencies and good thinking individuals can emulate, with a view to ensuring that in the nearest future, parents can bring their wards to Iwuoachang Community Secondary School and also uphold his legacy.

The lawmaker said the initiative was also in line with the ARISE AGENDA of the state government, particularly its emphasis on repositioning education and improving learning conditions across communities in Akwa Ibom.

He urged the students, teachers and members of the community to take ownership of the facility, protect it and ensure that it serves generations to come.

The commissioning and official handing-over of the facility were performed by Dr. Eunice Thomas, the All Progressives Congress candidate for the Eket Federal Constituency, comprising Eket, Esit Eket, Onna and Ibeno.

Thomas thanked God for the successful completion of the project and commended Governor Eno and Udobia for their contributions to education in the area.

She said the broader objective should be to raise children who would compete successfully not only within Akwa Ibom but across Nigeria and Africa.

“Our goal is to grow and groom the best crop of children in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria and Africa. We hope to change the way children experience education at this time by promoting quality and practical education,” she said.

A goodwill message from the Iwuoachang Village Council also commended Udobia for what it described as an innovative intervention in the community.

The council said the construction of the modern classroom block demonstrated a deliberate commitment to changing the educational trajectory of the area.

“The people truly appreciate this effort, and we assure you that we will make good use of it to boost our educational values,” the council said.

The new facility is equipped with three classrooms, a principal’s office, a staff office and separate toilet facilities for students and teachers, as well as well-kitted desks, a store room and a water facility.

Plans for the facility also include a computer system and a smart television linked to the principal’s office, which will be used to support animation and visual learning, enabling students to see and understand lessons beyond what is presented in textbooks.

The project is therefore expected to provide more than additional classroom space, but also introduce elements of technology and practical learning into the educational experience of students.

For the Principal of Iwuoachang Community Secondary School, Mr. Ikpaette Asukpa Ikpaette, the development represents a significant milestone for an institution that had previously struggled with inadequate classroom facilities. He further expressed gratitude to God for allowing the school community to witness what he described as a major transformation.

“Initially, we had an issue with classroom facilities for students to learn, but seeing this development, we are very grateful,” he said.

The Principal stated that the students were excited about the new facility and prayed for continued strength and success for Udobia, while appealing for more development projects in the school.

“The students are happy, and we continue to pray that God will give you the strength to do more. We also solicit for more projects to be brought to the school,” the principal added.

The celebration also provided an opportunity for community organisations to recognise Udobia's contribution. He was honoured with awards by the Iwuoachang Concerned Forum, Iwuoachang Community Secondary School and Iwuoachang Students Forum.

The event was attended by members of the Akwa Ibom State Legislature, representatives of the local government council, traditional leaders, students, members of the community and other stakeholders.

For Iwuoachang, the new classroom block now stands not merely as a structure of concrete and furnishing, but as a symbol of what investment in education can mean for a community.

And for Udobia, handing over the facility on his birthday appeared to carry a simple message: that a birthday celebration can be measured not only by what one receives, but by what one leaves behind.

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NDC candidate, Thomas Victor Onwubiko Wishes Amuwo Odofin Constituency II Students Success as Schools Resume

By Naomi Onome

Hon. Thomas Victor Onwubiko, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Amuwo Odofin Constituency II seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly, has extended a message of goodwill and success to students across the constituency as schools resume for the new academic session on September 14.

Onwubiko, popularly known as TVO, urged students to approach the new school term with seriousness, discipline and determination, stressing that education remains one of the most important foundations for personal development and a better future.

In a goodwill message to students, parents, teachers and school communities across Amuwo Odofin Constituency II, Onwubiko encouraged students to make the most of the opportunities provided by education and remain focused on their academic goals.

He urged them to see the new academic session as an opportunity to improve on their previous performance, acquire new knowledge and develop the skills needed to become responsible members of society.

According to him, success in education requires commitment, hard work and consistency, noting that students should avoid distractions that could prevent them from achieving their potential.

“Dear students of Amuwo Odofin Constituency II, as you resume school for a new academic session, I encourage you to remain focused on your studies, listen to your teachers and give your education the attention it deserves,” Onwubiko said.

He further advised the students to respect their parents, guardians, teachers and other members of their communities, stressing that good character should accompany academic excellence.

The NDC candidate also urged students to make their parents proud by taking their studies seriously and demonstrating discipline both within and outside the school environment.

“Your parents are making sacrifices to give you the opportunity to receive an education. Honour their sacrifices by working hard, staying disciplined and making them proud through your academic performance and good character,” he added.

Onwubiko emphasised that the future of Amuwo Odofin and Nigeria at large depends significantly on the quality of education and preparation provided to young people today.

He therefore encouraged students to cultivate positive habits, read widely, ask questions in class and seek knowledge beyond their regular schoolwork.

He also called on parents and guardians to continue providing the necessary support and encouragement for their children and wards, particularly by creating an environment that allows them to concentrate on their education.

Teachers, he said, also have an important role to play in shaping the future of the students by providing quality instruction, mentorship and guidance.

Onwubiko noted that students face different challenges in their academic journeys but encouraged them not to allow temporary difficulties to discourage them from pursuing their ambitions.

He urged them to set realistic goals and work steadily towards achieving them, reminding them that academic success is often the product of patience, perseverance and consistent effort.

The lawmaker hopeful expressed optimism that the students of Amuwo Odofin Constituency II would distinguish themselves academically and contribute positively to the development of their communities in the future.

He wished all students a safe and successful return to school and prayed that the new academic session would bring them greater knowledge, confidence and achievement.

“As you return to school, go with determination, discipline and a positive mindset. Focus on your studies, respect your teachers, support one another and always remember that your education is an investment in your future,” Onwubiko said.

He also extended his best wishes to parents and teachers for a productive academic session, urging all stakeholders to work together to create a supportive environment where students can learn, grow and achieve their aspirations.

The goodwill message is part of Onwubiko’s continued engagement with residents and young people in Amuwo Odofin Constituency II, with education and youth development remaining important issues in his public engagements.

As schools reopen on September 14, he called on students across the constituency to embrace the new session with renewed energy and determination, stressing that every academic year provides another opportunity to learn, improve and move closer to their dreams.

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WASPEN Pushes Hospital-Based Nutrition Care, Mobilises for 2026 Malnutrition Awareness Week

By Naomi Onome

The West African Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN) has called for stronger attention to clinical nutrition and nutrition support services in Nigerian hospitals, stressing that the fight against malnutrition must extend beyond communities to patients receiving treatment in healthcare facilities.

The President and Founder of WASPEN, Dr. Teresa Isichei Pounds, made the call during a press conference ahead of the 2026 Malnutrition Awareness Week, organised in collaboration with the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN).

The 2026 campaign is being held under the theme, “Nutrition is a Team Effort.”

Dr. Pounds said the theme reflects the reality that addressing malnutrition requires more than one profession, institution or sector, but demands collective action by different stakeholders working together.

She noted that Nigeria had made progress over the past year in strengthening its national nutrition agenda through initiatives including the Nutrition 774 Initiative and the development of the National Policy on Food and Nutrition 2026–2035.

She also acknowledged increased attention to sustainable nutrition financing, micronutrient deficiencies and the critical first 1,000 days of life.

Dr. Pounds commended the Federal Government, National Council on Nutrition, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and other stakeholders for their contributions to the progress recorded in the sector.

She, however, said the country must now ensure that national nutrition efforts reach every person requiring nutrition care, including patients who are already sick and receiving treatment in hospitals.

According to her, malnutrition is often discussed in relation to food insecurity, children in communities, maternal nutrition, breastfeeding and micronutrient deficiencies, while its occurrence within healthcare facilities receives comparatively less attention.

She said some patients arrive at hospitals already malnourished, while others may become nutritionally depleted during illness or hospitalisation. Patients undergoing surgery or suffering from infections, cancer, trauma or critical illness may also have increased nutritional requirements, she added.

Dr. Pounds warned that nutrition can sometimes become secondary to the medical condition that brought a patient to hospital, despite its importance to the patient's overall recovery. She said studies have demonstrated the implications of malnutrition among hospital patients, describing the issue as one that must receive greater attention within the healthcare system.

According to her, some studies have even described hospital malnutrition as a “skeleton in the hospital closet.”

She therefore called on healthcare institutions to strengthen nutrition screening, assessment, intervention and monitoring as part of routine patient care. She explained that once screening identifies a patient as malnourished or at nutritional risk, appropriate interventions should follow, including specialised nutrition support where clinically required.

Dr. Pounds further emphasised that nutrition care should be treated as a multidisciplinary responsibility rather than the exclusive responsibility of one professional group. She identified physicians, nurses, dietitians, nutritionists, pharmacists, laboratory professionals, community health workers and other healthcare professionals as important members of the nutrition care team.

She also identified hospital leadership, including Chief Medical Directors and Chairmen of Medical Advisory Committees, as having important roles in establishing systems that support effective nutrition care.

She stressed that teamwork does not mean that every professional performs the same function, but that each member contributes specialised knowledge towards achieving better patient outcomes.

The WASPEN founder urged stakeholders to move away from seeing nutrition as the territory of a particular professional group. She said the patient must remain at the centre of nutrition care, particularly where specialised nutrition support is required.

Dr. Pounds disclosed that some Nigerian healthcare institutions and CMDs had already embraced nutrition screening, early identification of nutritional problems and multidisciplinary nutrition support teams. She commended such institutions for taking the issue seriously and urged others to adopt similar structures.

WASPEN takes nutrition campaign beyond hospitals

Dr. Pounds said WASPEN had continued to promote nutrition across the entire continuum of care, from the community to the hospital and back to the community after discharge.

She recalled that the society's 5th WASPEN Clinical Nutrition Conference in Asaba earlier this year was not limited to activities within the conference hall.

According to her, WASPEN also conducted community engagements in Ogwa Ukwu and Ahaba, taking nutrition awareness directly to the people. She said the experience reinforced the society's belief that nutrition belongs both in the community and in hospitals.

Dr. Pounds explained that the two areas should not be treated as separate conversations because a person may receive nutrition education in the community, become ill, require hospital care and later return to the same community.

She therefore called for stronger connections between community nutrition, hospital nutrition, treatment, recovery and post-discharge care.

From awareness to action

Dr. Pounds said the 2026 Malnutrition Awareness Week would go beyond simply informing Nigerians that malnutrition exists.

She said the campaign would also challenge stakeholders to consider what could be done differently to identify and address malnutrition.

She called for routine identification of patients at nutritional risk and stronger multidisciplinary nutrition care structures within health facilities. She also advocated improved nutrition competencies among healthcare professionals.

According to her, appropriate systems and resources must be available for patients who require enteral and parenteral nutrition. She further stressed the need to measure nutrition care and outcomes as part of the quality of healthcare provided by institutions.

Dr. Pounds also called for more research to document the impact of nutrition interventions and provide evidence for continuous improvement in patient care.

She said these responsibilities cannot be left to government alone, stressing that healthcare institutions, professional organisations, academia, development partners, pharmaceutical companies and communities must collaborate.

She also acknowledged pharmaceutical companies supporting nutrition initiatives, but noted that gaps remain in the availability and affordability of specialised nutrition products.

According to her, identifying a patient as malnourished is only one part of the process, as the healthcare system must also have the necessary resources and products to provide appropriate care.

WASPEN establishes multidisciplinary teams

Dr. Pounds said WASPEN's activities include professional education, conferences, webinars, partnerships and support for the establishment of multidisciplinary nutrition teams.

She disclosed that about six multidisciplinary teams had been formed in various institutions, beginning with Lagos and extending to Abuja and Asaba, among other locations.

She explained that WASPEN's annual clinical nutrition conference moves from state to state and that the organisation works with host institutions through memoranda of understanding with their CMDs. She said the objective is to encourage healthcare institutions to establish sustainable nutrition structures.

Dr. Pounds, who lives in the United States but maintains a team in Nigeria, said she continues to monitor developments in the country to understand where WASPEN's support is most needed.

Two major webinars scheduled

As part of the 2026 activities, WASPEN is organising two major webinars designed to move the conversation from awareness to practical clinical action.

The first webinar is titled “Nutrition Care is a Team Effort: Defining Roles, Building Partnerships, Improving Outcomes.”

The webinar will focus on collaboration among professional groups, professional roles, partnerships and the policy environment required to strengthen nutrition care.

The second webinar is titled “From Screening to Recovery: The Multidisciplinary Nutrition Care Pathway in Practice.”

According to WASPEN, the second session will examine how nutrition care can progress from screening and identification through assessment, intervention, monitoring and recovery.

The organisation said the webinars would bring together professionals and stakeholders from different areas of the nutrition and healthcare system.

Federal Ministry, Nigerian and international experts to participate

WASPEN is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, particularly its Nutrition Department, for the 2026 campaign.

Guest speakers for the first and second days include Dr. Justine N. Olajide, Chairman, Multidisciplinary Nutrition Steering Committee, Federal Medical Centre, Asaba.

Others are Dr. (Med.) Christian Owoo, Director, Medical Training and Simulation Centre, University of Ghana Medical Centre, and Dr. (Pharm.) Jennifer Boateng, Clinical Pharmacy lead in the ICU, Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ghana.

Also listed are Nurse Oluwakemi Omoyeni, Head Nurse, Private Wing, University of Lagos Teaching Hospital; Dietitian Sarah Wright of Lagos University Teaching Hospital; and Prof. Lere Baale, Chief Executive of Business School Netherlands International and Chairman/President of the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy.

Adegbite Olufunmilayo, Director, Nutrition Department, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Abuja, and Prof. Salisu Maiwada Abubakar, President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria, are also scheduled to participate.

International speakers include Dr. Zandraetta Tims-Cook, Medical Director of Faebris Medical and Education Heather Ivy Society, Atlanta, Georgia, United States.

Also expected is Albert Barrocas, MD, FACS, FASPEN, Adjunct Professor of Surgery at Tulane University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States.

The diversity of speakers reflects WASPEN's emphasis on bringing together expertise from medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dietetics, nutrition, academia, government and international institutions.

Hospitals prepare nationwide activities

Several healthcare institutions across Nigeria are preparing activities to mark the 2026 Malnutrition Awareness Week.

Among the participating institutions are University of Lagos Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Adamawa University Teaching Hospital, Yola, Kwara Primary Health Care and participating institutions in Maiduguri.

Dietitian Folashade Adeleke RDN represented Adamawa University Teaching Hospital, Yola, Adamawa State, during the briefing.

Kate Onwuana represented Kwara Primary Health Care, while Zainab Buba represented Maiduguri.

The participating institutions have various sensitisation programmes lined up as part of the campaign.

A representative of one of the participating teaching hospitals said the institution had prepared programmes for patients and the hospital community.

The programmes include sensitization, clinical case presentations and hands-on training for healthcare professionals involved in nutrition care.

The representative said the institution was committed to making nutrition care more visible within the healthcare space.

FMC Asaba unveils five-day programme

At Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Dr. Justine N. Olajide said the institution had developed a week-long programme involving media engagements, staff sensitisation, nutritional assessments, webinars and a closing session.

According to her, the centre would use television and radio appearances to create awareness about the Malnutrition Awareness Week scheduled for Monday to Friday, September 21 to 25.

She said the programme would begin with a flag-off involving the Medical Director, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, senior administrative officials, the nutrition steering committee and nurses selected for outreach activities.

Dr. Olajide said Tuesday would feature engagements designed to determine what hospital staff know about malnutrition and how they can work together as a team. She added that a webinar would also hold at 2 p.m. on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, she said the hospital would conduct assessments involving hospital staff, including measurements of body mass index, height, weight and other anthropometric indicators.

The information gathered would contribute to efforts to understand the prevalence of malnutrition within the hospital and other areas. The centre was also preparing jingles to be played periodically as part of the awareness campaign.

According to her, Thursday would feature presentations to hospital staff on the multidisciplinary nature of nutrition care and the importance of teamwork while Friday would include further outreach activities and a closing session.

Dr. Olajide also disclosed that the institution was working on T-shirts and banners and had begun sensitising heads of departments and members of the medical team about the programme.

WASPEN renews call for action

In her closing remarks, Dr. Pounds urged stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria's national nutrition agenda embraces the full continuum of nutrition care, including acute and hospital-based care.

She commended the Federal Government for progress made so far and called for continued leadership in making nutrition a sustained national priority.

She urged stakeholders to continue strengthening nutrition in communities, protecting mothers and children during the critical first 1,000 days and addressing food and micronutrient insecurity.

She, however, stressed that attention must also be paid to patients in hospitals by asking whether they have been screened for nutritional risk and whether their nutritional needs have been properly assessed.

She said healthcare institutions should examine whether their teams have the knowledge, resources and systems required to respond to identified nutritional needs.

According to her, nutrition care should not automatically end when a patient is discharged because patients may require continued nutritional attention as they return to their communities.

Dr. Pounds reiterated that malnutrition is too complex for one profession to solve, too important for one sector to own and too serious to be addressed only after it becomes severe.

She said WASPEN would continue working with government, professional organisations, healthcare institutions, development partners and communities to ensure that nutrition receives the attention it deserves.

She stressed that the 2026 campaign should serve as an opportunity to move from awareness to action.

“From the community to the hospital, from prevention to treatment, and from screening to recovery, nutrition must remain part of the care that we provide,” Dr. Pounds said.

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Subscribe to Dangote Refinery IPO in Under Two Minutes Through Fidelity Bank

By Primetime Reports

Investors seeking to subscribe to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery IPO can complete the process in less than two minutes through Fidelity Bank’s digital channels.

The Bank has provided multiple subscription options designed to serve existing Fidelity Bank customers, corporate organisations and non-customers in Nigeria and abroad. The available channels include the Fidelity Bank iOS Mobile App, Android Mobile App, corporate banking platform for Fidelity corporate customers and designated Fidelity Bank branches nationwide.

A major feature of the bank’s subscription soluition is the availability of Virtual Accounts for investors who do not maintain accounts with Fidelity Bank. Through this option, non-Fidelity Bank customers in Nigeria and abroad can initiate their subscriptions through the Fidelity Bank website, receive dedicated Virtual Account details and fund their applications from an operational bank account.

The Virtual Account option extends access to prospective investors without requiring them to open a regular Fidelity Bank account before subscribing. It also supports third-party funded subscriptions and provides non-customers with a convenient digital route for participating in the offer.

Existing retail customers can complete their subscriptions through the Fidelity Bank Mobile App on iOS and Android devices, while corporate customers can subscribe through the Bank’s corporate online banking platform, subject to the applicable inputter and authoriser process. For additional support, investors may visit the nearest Fidelity Bank branch or contact Fidelity TrueServe by calling 070034335489, sending a WhatsApp message to 09030005252, or emailing trueserve@fidelitybank.ng. Dedicated personnel are available around the clock to guide intending subscribers and ensure a seamless subscription experience.

Investors are expected to provide the relevant identification and account information. This may include a Bank Verification Number for non-Fidelity Bank account holders, a National Identification Number for minors and an active operational account or online banking profile for Fidelity Bank customers.

Investors who do not already have a Central Securities Clearing System account can also participate in the IPO. A stockbroking account may be opened through Fidelity Securities Limited to facilitate the electronic crediting of allotted shares after completion of the allotment process.

Once a subscription has been successfully authorised, the investor’s selected account will be debited or the assigned Virtual Account funded, as applicable. The investor will subsequently receive a confirmation message, transaction reference and receipt as evidence of the application.

The initiative reinforces the Bank’s commitment to expanding access to Nigeria’s capital market by providing investors with simple, inclusive and technology-driven subscription options.

Prospective investors are advised to review the approved Offer Prospectus carefully before making an investment decision. The prospectus contains the applicable eligibility conditions, price, minimum subscription requirement, permissible multiples, offer period and other terms governing the IPO.

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CEOAFRICA, GHC Team Celebrate Geneith Pharmaceuticals Chairman on Birthday

By Primetime Reports

The Managing Director CEOAFRICA and initiator of Geneith Health Competition, Prince Cletus Sunday Iloabanafor, alongside members of the (GHC) team, has joined staff and associates of Geneith Pharmaceuticals in celebrating the Executive Chairman of the company, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, on his birthday.

Chief Umenwa was received with cheers and goodwill by workers and GHC team members at the company’s headquarters, where tributes were paid to his visionary leadership, commitment to staff welfare, healthcare development and philanthropy.

Speaking during the celebration, Prince Iloabanafor described Chief Umenwa as a distinguished pharmaceutical industry leader whose contributions have significantly impacted healthcare delivery and community development in Nigeria.

> “Chief Emmanuel Umenwa is a beacon of excellence whose contributions to the pharmaceutical sector have saved countless lives and elevated standards of healthcare delivery,” he said.

Iloabanafor commended Umenwa’s journey from entrepreneurship to becoming a prominent figure in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector, noting that his leadership has been defined by courage, innovation, integrity and a strong commitment to improving access to quality healthcare.

As founder, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, Chief Umenwa has over two decades of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. He is a member of the Institute of Directors and an active Rotarian. His achievements have earned him several recognitions, including the Pillar of Pharmacy Award from the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Branch, and the National Outstanding Leadership Performance Award from the National Association of Polytechnic Students.

His philanthropic activities have also focused on healthcare access, medical support, health awareness and the fight against preventable diseases, particularly malaria. Under his leadership, Geneith Pharmaceuticals has supported anti-malaria campaigns and public health initiatives across communities in Nigeria.

Chief Umenwa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and an MBA from the University of Lagos. He also serves on the boards of several organisations across the telecommunications, hospitality and pharmaceutical sectors.

The Geneith Health Competition, alongside the company’s wider health advocacy initiatives, has further strengthened Geneith Pharmaceuticals’ engagement with communities and promoted health literacy among Nigerians.

Also speaking, Geneith Health National Coordinator Pharm Blessing Ghensel described Umenwa as a great leader whose passion for youth development and quality healthcare for all in Migeria

Responding to the goodwill, Chief Umenwa expressed appreciation to his staff, business associates, industry stakeholders and well-wishers for their prayers and messages.

He pledged to remain committed to excellence, integrity and service to the Nigerian people.

In a special birthday appeal, Chief Umenwa urged Nigerians and healthcare stakeholders to *make the fight against malaria a collective priority.
> “The best way to celebrate my birthday is to join the fight against malaria and let us make Nigeria a malaria-free nation,” he said.
Other Management Staff of Geneith Pharmaceuticals present are Blessing Ada cosmas Head Hr/Admin
Abimbola Bowoto - AGM sales& marketing
Obinna Agunye- Special Assistant to the chairman,
Umeh Chidozie- PA to the chairman
Goodluck chioma - procurement officer
The leadership of CEOAFRICA and the GHC activation team joined Geneith staff, family members, business associates and well-wishers in wishing Chief Emmanuel Umenwa many more years of good health, impactful service and continued success.

Read more on:
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Congregation of Yahweh Denies Allegations, Urges Media to Await Police Findings

....Seeks Right of Reply Over Viral Media Campaign

By Naomi Onome

The Congregation of Yahweh, Lagos, has denied allegations of sexual misconduct, maltreatment, harassment and other forms of abuse levelled against its leadership and members by some former members of the church and their mother.

The church, in an official press statement signed by Apst. Yehudah Nnedu, Chairman of the Assembly, said the allegations were false, malicious and unfounded, while accusing the former members of subjecting the church and its leadership to what it described as a “media trial.”

The statement followed the circulation of an interview across YouTube, Facebook, WhatsApp and other social media platforms involving former members of the congregation, identified as Diuto Okwuonu, Ugomma Okwuonu, Amara Okwuonu, Susana Okwuonu and their mother, Mrs. Naomi Okwuonu.

According to the church, a petition concerning the allegations is currently being investigated by the Gender Unit of the Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja.

The congregation said it was therefore concerned that the allegations were being publicly circulated while the police investigation remained ongoing.

It appealed to media organisations that had published or broadcast the allegations to give the church an equal opportunity to respond, invoking the principle of audi alteram partem—“hear the other side.”

Church denies allegations of sexual misconduct

The Congregation of Yahweh said it does not trivialise allegations of sexual misconduct, particularly where a child is allegedly involved, but maintained that allegations must be subjected to proper investigation and supported by credible evidence.

It described itself as an institution founded on principles of purity, discipline, modesty, righteousness and reverence for Yahweh Almighty.

The church consequently rejected any suggestion that its leadership or institutional structure promotes, tolerates or conceals sexual immorality, incest or violence.

It argued that serious allegations should not be treated as established facts merely because they had been aired publicly.

Church disputes Diuto's allegation

On Diuto Okwuonu's allegation of attempted sexual harassment and beating, the church described the claim as completely false.

It stated that no member of its leadership had sexually harassed, made sexual advances towards or beaten her.

The congregation further claimed that no such incident was reported to the church or any lawful authority before what it described as the recent media campaign.

Allegation involving Ugomma and other sisters denied

The church also strongly rejected Ugomma Okwuonu's allegation that she and two other sisters were sexually abused and allegedly “passed from one brother to another.”

It described the allegation as “grievous” and defamatory, insisting that no member identified as Bro. Emmanuel had any sexual relationship with Ugomma.

According to the church, Emmanuel was betrothed to Susana Okwuonu alone and had no other relationship of the nature alleged.

The congregation said the allegation could damage Emmanuel's marriage, faith and reputation within the church and wider community.

It maintained that matters involving alleged sexual abuse should be established through forensic investigation and other appropriate evidence rather than media reports.

However, the church also made reference to what it described as previous allegations made by Ugomma against distant relatives, characterising them as “false narratives.”

Church explains Amara's discontinued education

On the allegation by Amara Okwuonu, the eldest of the sisters, that the General Overseer maltreated her and caused her university education in Ghana to be discontinued after the annulment of her marriage, the church also denied wrongdoing.

The congregation said the decision concerning her scholarship was not a punitive measure arising from the annulment of her marriage.

It explained that the decision was allegedly reached collectively and was influenced by family resources, concerns about academic conduct and moral standards at the time, as well as conditions attached to the institutional support.

The church said it was therefore misleading to portray the matter as an act of persecution.

Dispute over Susana's marriage and child custody

The statement also addressed allegations involving Susana Okwuonu, described by the church as the former wife of Brother Emmanuel.

The congregation alleged that Susana abandoned her matrimonial home and child for more than two years without lawful justification before returning to seek custody.

It further alleged that she was using allegations of sexual misconduct involving her sisters in pursuing the matter.

The church, however, maintained that the welfare and best interests of the child should remain paramount and should not become a means of settling personal disputes.

Church rejects Union Bank claim

The congregation also denied an allegation concerning Mrs. Naomi Okwuonu's employment with Union Bank.

According to the church, it did not instruct Mrs. Okwuonu to resign from the bank.

It claimed that, at the time, Union Bank was undergoing a general staff rationalisation and downsizing exercise, which it said affected her disengagement.

The church further stated that any subsequent decision concerning her employment or pension benefits was a personal decision.

Church alleges cyberbullying, breach of peace

Beyond the allegations of misconduct, the Congregation of Yahweh accused the former members and their mother of engaging in what it described as continuous defamatory commentaries, insults, name-calling and online videos targeting the church, its General Overseer and her family.

It alleged that the activities had exposed the church and its members to public ridicule and contempt.

The congregation further claimed that the peace of its estate had been disrupted, alleging that Ugomma had been seen on several occasions around the family residence with unidentified persons.

According to the statement, the matter had already been reported at the Festac Police Division.

The church said it had preserved copies of YouTube, WhatsApp and Facebook publications relating to the controversy for possible legal purposes.

Church highlights years of assistance to family

The Congregation of Yahweh also sought to counter what it described as an incomplete portrayal of its relationship with the Okwuonu family.

It listed several forms of assistance it claimed to have provided the family over the years, including free accommodation, feeding and basic necessities, educational expenses, general welfare and medical assistance.

The church also claimed that it facilitated an all-expenses-paid pilgrimage or trip to Israel for the family's father through its support.

According to the congregation, the history of assistance was relevant to understanding the relationship between the church and the family.

It added that leaving the church remained a personal choice that it respected, but argued that such departure should not be used as a basis to “rewrite history.”

Legal action may follow

The church said it had briefed its legal representatives and was taking steps to protect its reputation, integrity and the rights of its members.

It said it was considering legal remedies under applicable defamation laws, the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and Lagos State laws relating to domestic and sexual violence.

The congregation warned that, where sufficient legal grounds were established, it could pursue civil or criminal action against those responsible for what it described as false publications, as well as the facilitator, publisher and other platforms that continued to circulate what it considered unverified allegations.

It also called on all parties involved to preserve recordings, publications, social media posts and other relevant materials that could become evidence.

Appeal to media organisations

The church appealed to media organisations that had carried the allegations to grant it equal opportunity to respond.

It urged media platforms to refrain from presenting the allegations as established facts while the matter remained under police investigation.

The congregation also asked media organisations to preserve all recordings, reports, publications and related materials concerning the controversy.

It said it was willing to appear before reputable media platforms to present its position and provide what it described as verifiable facts.

The church stressed that it respected the media as an important pillar of democracy and an instrument for the pursuit of truth and justice.

It nevertheless urged journalists and media organisations to uphold fairness, balance, professional ethics and responsible journalism.

The Congregation of Yahweh maintained that it would not be intimidated or silenced by what it described as narratives that did not reflect the truth, expressing confidence that the ongoing process would ultimately establish the facts.

The allegations made by the former members and their mother, as well as the church's counter-allegations, remain matters for the appropriate authorities to investigate and determine.

Read more on Primetime Reports:
https://primetimereports.com.ng/congregation-of-yahweh-denies-allegations-urges-media-to-await-police-findings/

David Omenukor Foundation Launches 2026 Breast Cancer Campaign, Offers Free Screenings to Vulnerable Women in Texas

By Primetime Reports

The David Omenukor Foundation has launched its 2026 breast and cervical cancer awareness and early detection campaign, providing free mammogram screenings to about 22 underserved and vulnerable women in Mesquite, Texas.

The initiative, which commenced on Friday, September 4, was organised in partnership with Methodist Health System as part of efforts to promote early detection and prevention of breast and cervical cancer and remove financial barriers that often prevent women from accessing essential healthcare.

Held ahead of October’s cancer awareness month, the campaign featured an awareness road walk, expert health talks and free clinical screenings for participants.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, Dr. Keyna Omenukor, said the initiative was driven by a commitment to making healthcare accessible and affordable, particularly for women in underserved communities.

According to her, the campaign goes beyond routine screening, with its broader objective being to save lives, raise awareness and create pathways to preventive healthcare for vulnerable women.

“Our annual free breast and cervical cancer screenings are part of our commitment to provide accessible and affordable healthcare for women as well as educate the general public on the most common form of cancer affecting women,” Omenukor said.

She disclosed that the Foundation was established in 2015 in honour of her late husband, David Omenukor, who died after battling cancer.

Omenukor said her personal experience of losing her husband inspired the establishment of the organisation and strengthened her resolve to help prevent other families from suffering the consequences of delayed diagnosis.

“This foundation is for women and people in healthcare to get care. It was born in honour of my late husband. If cancer could happen to us, I wonder how other people are passing through it. The foundation was created to encourage people to get screened,” she said.

Since its establishment, the Foundation has expanded its outreach programmes across Nigeria and internationally, screening thousands of people and providing support to individuals facing cancer-related health challenges.

Omenukor warned that cancer remains a serious and potentially deadly disease, particularly when detected at an advanced stage. She identified fear, stigma, financial hardship and inadequate awareness as some of the factors discouraging women from seeking timely medical attention.

“Cancer is an extraordinarily dangerous and ruthless disease; it does not wait, it does not negotiate, and it thrives on silence, fear, and delay,” she said.
“When caught late, cancer is a devastating sentence, but it does not have to be. Screening is the ultimate weapon because early detection turns a deadly threat into a preventable, treatable condition.”

Health experts participating in the outreach disclosed that the screenings had identified several cases of precancerous cervical conditions and breast lumps requiring immediate medical follow-up.

They stressed that such early discoveries provide opportunities for prompt medical intervention before the conditions progress into more aggressive and potentially life-threatening diseases.

One of the beneficiaries, whose family recently lost medical insurance following her husband’s job loss, said she was able to undergo a mammogram through a grant provided by the Foundation.

The woman, who has a strong family history of breast cancer after losing her mother to the disease following a delayed diagnosis, urged other women not to allow fear or financial constraints to prevent them from undergoing regular screening.

She encouraged women to prioritise mammograms and Pap smears, stressing that early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.

Medical experts at the event also advised women to conduct regular breast self-examinations, undergo clinical screenings and ensure that young girls receive Human Papillomavirus vaccination as part of efforts to prevent cervical cancer.

They further called on governments and healthcare providers to make cancer screening and treatment more affordable and accessible, particularly for women in underserved communities.

Speakers at the event expressed concern over the continued prevalence of late-stage cancer presentations, attributing the trend partly to stigma, fear and reluctance among women to discuss breast-related symptoms or seek medical attention.

Omenukor urged women not to allow embarrassment or fear to jeopardise their health, advising them to seek medical attention whenever they notice unusual changes, lumps or other warning signs.

“The rate at which women have breast cancer and then stay with it just because they are shy to go to a hospital is worrisome,” she said.

“This campaign is not just about awareness; it’s about saving lives. Cancer does not wait, and neither should we. I urge every woman to make regular screenings an absolute priority and pay immediate attention to their health before it is too late.”

The Foundation also stressed the importance of male involvement in the fight against breast cancer, urging men to familiarise themselves with warning signs and encourage women in their families and communities to undergo regular screening.

Organisers noted that breast cancer is not exclusively a women’s concern, as men can also develop the disease and have an important role to play in supporting women to seek timely medical care.

Looking beyond the current campaign, Omenukor said the Foundation is pursuing an ambitious humanitarian vision to establish a state-of-the-art cancer screening and treatment centre in Nigeria, where it has already acquired land for the project.

She called for stronger collaboration among the Federal Government, private-sector organisations, non-governmental organisations, healthcare institutions and diaspora groups to expand access to advanced cancer screening equipment and services.

According to her, mobile mammography units could provide a cost-effective solution for reaching women in remote and rural communities where access to specialised healthcare remains limited.

“We are welcoming government agencies and NGOs to collaborate with us. We must go beyond our foundation, and anyone can reach out to us through our website. We have a solid place where we can start, and the earlier we start, the more lives will be saved,” she said.

Despite security challenges affecting access to some rural communities in Imo State, the Foundation said it is also working to provide financial assistance for treatment and essential medical bills to ensure that patients are not abandoned after receiving a diagnosis.

The next phase of the international campaign is expected to take place at the Foundation’s Nigerian headquarters in Owerri, Imo State, where it plans to extend free cancer screening services to women facing geographical and financial barriers to healthcare.

Omenukor described the Texas outreach as only the beginning of a broader campaign against healthcare inequality, insisting that poverty should never determine whether an individual receives potentially life-saving cancer care.

“What we are doing today is just the tip of the iceberg,” she said, adding that millions of women in marginalised communities still lack access to basic preventive healthcare.

“Our goal is not merely to offer a one-time screening, but to build a compassionate, sustainable lifeline that reaches the most neglected corners of the world. We will not rest until quality, life-saving cancer care is accessible, affordable, and equitable for every single woman, everywhere.”

Read more on:
https://primetimereports.com.ng/david-omenukor-foundation-launches-2026-breast-cancer-campaign-offers-free-screenings-to-vulnerable-women-in-texas/

Iche Calls for Security Agencies to Question Wike Over Candidate-Imposition Remarks

By Naomi Onome

Human rights advocate, Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, has called on Nigeria’s security agencies to invite the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for questioning over remarks attributed to him concerning the ability of his political group to produce candidates for elections.

Iche, who expressed concern over the implications of such statements for Nigeria’s democratic process, said security agencies should not overlook comments by influential political actors when such remarks appear to suggest an ability to determine electoral candidates outside established democratic procedures.

His reaction followed remarks attributed to Wike in which the FCT Minister spoke about the political capacity of his group to produce candidates in different parts of the country. Recent reports have also documented Wike’s involvement in political efforts surrounding the 2027 elections, including his support for candidates associated with his faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

According to Iche, statements suggesting that politicians can determine who emerges as candidates could create public concern about the credibility of the electoral process, particularly at a time when political parties are preparing for the 2027 general elections.

He argued that, if such remarks are interpreted as suggesting the imposition of candidates or undue influence over the electoral process, the appropriate authorities should seek clarification from the speaker.

“His statement signals to Nigerians and the world that there is no such thing as a free and fair election,” Iche said, urging the security agencies to invite Wike to explain what he meant.

The human rights advocate maintained that Nigeria’s democratic institutions must be strong enough to subject politically influential individuals to the same standards applicable to other citizens.

He further questioned why Wike, despite his complex political relationship with the PDP and his association with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has continued to wield considerable influence across political structures.

Wike has publicly explained his political activities as part of efforts to prevent politicians who lost nomination opportunities from moving to opposition platforms that could work against President Tinubu in 2027. In a recent media engagement, he defended his decision to support lawmakers who lost their APC tickets to contest on the platform of his PDP faction, arguing that doing so would keep them within a political structure supportive of the President.

Iche, however, said such political manoeuvring should not be allowed to undermine the principle that candidates should emerge through transparent and constitutionally recognised party processes.

His comments come amid continuing disputes within the PDP and disagreements over the authority of different factions to conduct primaries and produce candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.

For instance, reports have emerged of competing factions producing candidates in some states. In Plateau State, a Wike-backed faction conducted a governorship primary that produced Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik, widely known as Kefiano , while another faction of the PDP moved separately to affirm Sunday Garba Biggs as its candidate.

Similarly, in Bauchi State, competing PDP structures have produced different candidates, further illustrating the extent of the party’s internal crisis ahead of the next general elections.

Iche said developments of this nature make it imperative for political parties and state institutions to uphold procedures that guarantee transparency, internal democracy and respect for the electorate.

He also questioned the purpose of substantial public expenditure on electoral institutions if powerful political actors could openly boast about their ability to determine candidates before voters have the opportunity to make their choices.

The activist stressed that Nigeria’s democratic institutions must protect the right of citizens to participate in elections where candidates are selected through recognised party processes and ultimately subjected to the decision of voters.

According to him, no individual politician, regardless of political influence or access to government, should be regarded as being above scrutiny.

“Let it be known to Wike that he is not a god; he is just a mortal man,” Iche said, warning political leaders against conduct that, in his view, could have a negative influence on younger Nigerians.

He also urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to pay attention to statements and political activities capable of generating controversy around the administration of President Tinubu.

Iche argued that Wike’s continued prominence in political calculations could expose the administration to criticism, particularly where his actions or statements are perceived as inconsistent with the expectations of transparent democratic governance.

Wike’s political role has in recent months extended beyond his formal position as FCT Minister, with his influence also evident in negotiations and political alignments involving the PDP and the 2027 elections. In April 2026, a Wike-backed PDP leadership said the party was preparing to conduct credible primaries and produce candidates ahead of the general elections.

However, the continuing factional disputes within the PDP have also generated competing claims over which structures possess the legitimate authority to produce candidates.

Against this background, Iche called on relevant authorities to ensure that political influence does not replace established electoral and party procedures.

He said Nigerians deserve an electoral system in which political parties conduct transparent primaries, electoral institutions perform their statutory responsibilities independently, and voters retain the final authority to determine who occupies elective positions.

Iche further warned that political statements made by powerful actors should be examined carefully because they can influence public confidence in democratic institutions.

He therefore urged the security agencies and other relevant authorities to obtain clarification from Wike on the meaning and implications of his remarks, rather than allowing the controversy to fester.

The human rights advocate said Nigeria’s democracy could only be strengthened when institutions apply the law and established rules equally, irrespective of the political status of individuals involved.

As preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections, the controversy highlights the broader debate over internal party democracy, candidate selection, political influence and the ability of Nigerian institutions to guarantee a credible electoral process.

Iche maintained that the ultimate responsibility for choosing elected representatives should remain with Nigerian voters and not with individual political power brokers.

Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com/iche-calls-for-security-agencies-to-question-wike-over-candidate-imposition-remarks/

Former Administrator Disassociates Self From Virtuous Concepts Cooperative, Disclaims Liability Over Financial Dealings

By Naomi Onome

A former Head of Administration of Virtuous Concepts (Ojo) Cooperative Multipurpose Society Limited, Assumpta Chikwado Umeaku, has formally dissociated herself from the cooperative society and disclaimed responsibility for any financial obligations, liabilities or disputes that may be associated with the organisation.

Umeaku made the declaration in an affidavit of disclaimer sworn to before a Notary Public in Lagos State on July 3, 2026.

In the affidavit, the deponent stated that she was formerly the Head of Administration of Virtuous Concepts (Ojo) Cooperative Multipurpose Society Limited, identified in the document as V.C.C.M.S., with an office located at No. 28/30, Ijegun Road, Oja Bus Stop, beside Libra Motor Park, Ikotun, Lagos State.

She explained that, while serving in the organisation, she operated a group within the cooperative using her name, with an account maintained for members of her sub-group.

According to her, she had subsequently settled all financial matters involving members of the sub-group under her supervision.

The affidavit stated: “That as at date, I have settled all financial issues with all members of my Sub-Group.”

Following the alleged settlement, Umearu declared that she had chosen to completely disassociate herself from Virtuous Concepts (Ojo) Cooperative Multipurpose Society Limited.

She further stated that she should not be held liable, accountable or responsible for any financial issues that may have arisen previously or might arise subsequently in connection with the cooperative.

The disclaimer appears intended to formally place her position on record and distinguish her personal financial responsibilities and dealings with members of her former sub-group from those of the cooperative society.

The deponent also stated that the affidavit was being made for public consumption, apparently to ensure that members of the public, particularly persons who may have dealings with the cooperative, are aware of her position.

She affirmed that the declaration was made bona fide and in accordance with the laws governing Notaries Public in Nigeria.

The affidavit was sworn to on July 3, 2026, before solicitor and Notary Public of Nigeria Holden in Lagos State.

The document does not, in itself, establish the existence or otherwise of any financial liability against the cooperative or any other individual. Rather, it records Umeaku’s formal declaration that she has settled the financial issues involving members of her sub-group and no longer wishes to be associated with the cooperative or be held responsible for its financial affairs.

The disclaimer could therefore become relevant to any future financial dispute or claim in which Umeaku’s former administrative role or her association with the cooperative is cited as a basis for liability.

As contained in the sworn document, her position is that her responsibilities ended following her purported settlement with members of her sub-group and her subsequent formal disengagement from the cooperative.

Read more on:

https://naomisophyblog.com/former-administrator-disassociates-self-from-virtuous-concepts-cooperative-disclaims-liability-over-financial-dealings/

JUST IN:Igbo Speaking Community Executive Council Passes Vote of Confidence on Sunday Udeh, Rejects Impeachment Report

By Naomi Onome

The elected Executive Council of the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos State has passed a vote of confidence in its President General, High Chief Dr. Amb. Sunday Udeh, while dismissing reports circulating on social media that he had been impeached and the executive council dissolved.

The council, at an emergency General Assembly meeting held on Monday, September 7, 2026, at the community's secretariat in Surulere, Lagos, described the purported impeachment and dissolution reports as false, baseless and unconstitutional.

The meeting was attended by members of the elected executive council, community leaders and other stakeholders, including former President General, Chief Chris Ekweilo, and a prominent stakeholder, Chief Agu na Emeudo.

In a resolution reached at the meeting, the elected executive members reaffirmed their support for Udeh and maintained that the executive council, which was sworn into office on September 14, 2025, remained the legitimate leadership structure of the community.

The council accused unidentified individuals it described as "imposters and faceless bandit stakeholders" of allegedly attempting to cause confusion, create division and undermine the reputation of the organisation through what it called a fabricated impeachment process.

The executive members said the reports of Udeh's alleged removal from office and the purported dissolution of the council had no basis under the constitution of the association.

They therefore urged genuine, card-carrying members of the Igbo Speaking Community to disregard the reports circulating on social media, describing them as an attempt to create unnecessary tension within the organisation.

The council further condemned what it described as the activities of "political jobbers" allegedly working to destabilise the community, insisting that its leadership remained united and focused on the objectives of the organisation.

Speaking during the emergency meeting, Udeh received a rousing ovation from members as he addressed the gathering and reaffirmed the position of the elected executive.

He stressed that the executive council members who were duly elected and sworn into office on September 14, 2025, remained in place.

Udeh, however, disclosed that any member of the executive council found to have participated in the alleged fake impeachment exercise would face disciplinary action after due investigation.

He said the community would not allow individual interests or alleged acts of mischief to undermine the stability and unity of the organisation.

The Executive Council also vowed to take legal action against individuals responsible for what it described as the circulation of false information concerning the leadership of the community.

According to the council, the purported removal of Udeh from office was "null and void," insisting that no valid constitutional process had been followed to effect such a change.

The leadership maintained that disagreements within any organisation could be addressed through established constitutional procedures rather than through what it described as clandestine actions, social media campaigns or purported resolutions issued by individuals without the authority to do so.

The council appealed to members of the community to remain calm and united, assuring them that the leadership would continue to operate within the provisions of the association's constitution.

The emergency meeting ended with the executive members reiterating their confidence in Udeh's leadership and declaring their determination to protect the integrity, unity and credibility of the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos State.

Read more on:

https://naomisophyblog.com/just-inigbo-speaking-community-executive-council-passes-vote-of-confidence-on-sunday-udeh-rejects-impeachment-report/

FOGOCOM Intensifies Nationwide Mobilisation for Tinubu, APC Ahead of 2027, Step Up Preparations Ahead of Abuja Event

By Naomisophyblog

The Forum of Governing Council Members in Nigeria Tertiary Institutions (FOGOCOM) has intensified its nationwide mobilisation in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid and the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The forum disclosed this in a statement signed by Hon. Benedict Aguele, ANIPR, Chairman, Media, Publicity & ICT Sub-Committee of the FOGOCOM–TSG National Conference Planning Committee, on Thursday, September 3, 2026, following a strategic engagement and nationwide briefing by its leadership.

According to the statement, the engagement provided an opportunity for members across the country to review ongoing activities, assess developments in the tertiary education sector and outline strategies for deeper grassroots engagement and stakeholder participation.

National Chairman of FOGOCOM, Chief (Dr.) Akin-Thomas Babajide, commended members for their loyalty, dedication and contributions towards good governance, educational development and nation-building.

Babajide said the achievements recorded under the Tinubu administration had provided what he described as a strong foundation for sustainable economic growth, educational reforms, infrastructure development and improved governance.

He described FOGOCOM as a strategic platform comprising experienced leaders, policymakers, governing council members and professionals committed to strengthening Nigeria’s tertiary education system.

The national chairman urged members to serve as ambassadors of positive change within their communities, institutions and professional networks by promoting the policies and achievements of the APC-led administration and encouraging greater citizen participation in governance.

A major focus of the engagement was the forthcoming FOGOCOM–TSG National Conference, scheduled for September 29, 2026, at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.

The conference is expected to attract stakeholders from government, academia, industry, development agencies and the private sector to deliberate on issues affecting tertiary education, governance, leadership development, institutional effectiveness and sustainable national development.

FOGOCOM also expressed appreciation to the Minister of Education for what it described as his continued support and commitment to policies and programmes aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s education sector.

The forum said its various committees had intensified preparations for the conference, with the Steering Committee and Finance Committee scheduled to hold a strategic physical meeting on Monday, September 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in Abuja.

Aguele said the meeting would focus on critical issues including conference logistics, funding, partnerships and programme coordination.

He added that committee chairmen had been directed to attend personally or nominate representatives where necessary.

According to him, members of the forum had unanimously pledged their support for the successful hosting of the conference and resolved to mobilise their networks, resources and strategic partnerships towards ensuring an impactful event.

The forum further stated that the conference would provide an opportunity to consolidate support for the APC and strengthen momentum towards the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.

Members are expected to intensify grassroots mobilisation, promote political awareness and communicate the achievements of the Renewed Hope Agenda across communities nationwide.

FOGOCOM, however, reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, discipline and professionalism, urging members to uphold high ethical standards in all their activities.

The forum said it remained committed to advancing Nigeria’s tertiary education sector while promoting national unity, educational excellence and sustainable development.

Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com/fogocom-intensifies-nationwide-mobilisation-for-tinubu-apc-ahead-of-2027-step-up-preparations-ahead-of-abuja-event/

Eze Okpoko Cup Debuts in Lagos, Blends Football, Youth Empowerment and Politics
...As Akinsanya Urges Igbo to Back APC Candidates in 2027

By Naomi Onome

The maiden edition of the Eze Okpoko 1 League Cup has kicked off in Alimosho, Lagos, with the opening matches ending in goalless draws, as organisers and stakeholders leveraged the tournament to foster unity, promote grassroots football development and empower youths through sports.

The tournament, which commenced on Sunday, August 30, 2026, attracted community leaders, political office holders, football enthusiasts, players, supporters and members of the Igbo community.

Six teams—Ndi Igbo Buru'Otu, Eastern Brothers, The Legend Star, Obi Udo, Igbo Speaking and Igbo Bi Na Ije—are participating in the competition, with a total prize package of N1 million earmarked for the top three teams and other prizes.

The opening fixtures saw Ndi Igbo Buru'Otu take on The Legend Star, while Obi Udo faced Igbo Speaking. Both matches ended 0-0 after regulation time, with the teams displaying strong defensive performances.

Beyond football, the event provided a platform for discussions on community development, youth empowerment, ethnic unity and the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

Akinsanya urges massive support for APC in 2027

The Executive Chairman of Ikotun-Igando LCDA, Snr. Comrade Lasisi Ayinde Akinsanya, who performed the ceremonial kick-off, used the occasion to call on members of the Igbo community and other residents to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

Akinsanya specifically appealed to the people to mobilise massive votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Lagos State Governor-elect, Obafemi Hamzat, whom he described as the preferred candidate to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

He urged the people to support Tinubu for a second term, saying a strong electoral mandate would enable the administration to secure greater political influence and attract more benefits to Lagos and its communities.

According to him, the people should not only vote for the APC but should ensure that the party receives massive support at the polls.

He said the community needed to recognise the importance of its voting strength and use it to negotiate for greater representation and development.

Akinsanya also praised President Tinubu's administration and expressed confidence in Hamzat's capacity to lead Lagos State.
He described Hamzat as an intelligent and experienced politician who understood the challenges confronting Lagos and possessed the capacity to continue the development agenda of the state.

He therefore called on residents to mobilise men, women and youths to support the APC candidates in the 2027 elections.
“We are not only canvassing for votes for our father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are canvassing for massive votes. The votes in Lagos State should be massive,” he said.

Akinsanya also appealed to the Igbo community to support the APC, stressing that its numerical strength could translate into political influence if properly mobilised.

He linked the appeal to the broader relationship between the Igbo community and the administration in Ikotun-Igando, urging residents to reciprocate what he described as the support and inclusion they had received from the local council.

Football as an instrument of unity

Speaking on the significance of the tournament, Akinsanya described football and other sporting activities as powerful instruments for promoting unity among people of different ethnic groups, ages and social backgrounds.

He said sporting events created an environment where people could interact without allowing ethnic differences to divide them.

“It is when we are playing football that you will see everybody come together. You won't be able to distinguish Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, Delta, Itsekiri or anybody. All of us are one,” he said.

He urged the players to approach the competition with discipline and sportsmanship, stressing that football should not be treated as a do-or-die affair.

“Football is a peaceful game. It is a game that unifies all—both young and old, women and men, boys and girls. Some people will win and some people will lose. That is the spirit of football,” he said.

Akinsanya commended the initiator of the tournament, Eze Chika Nwokedi, for what he described as his commitment to supporting people and contributing to community development.

He said Nwokedi could have chosen to live in more affluent parts of Lagos but had instead remained connected to the community and continued to support various initiatives.

The chairman also acknowledged Nwokedi's contributions to youth and community development, saying such initiatives deserved encouragement.

Nwokedi unveils youth empowerment plans

Earlier, Eze Chika Nwokedi, President of Ndi Igbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria and initiator of the tournament, explained that the competition was designed to go beyond football.

Nwokedi said his objective was to bring people together, encourage young people to develop their talents and create opportunities for outstanding youths.

He disclosed plans to identify talented players during sporting activities and support some of them with educational opportunities, including scholarships and opportunities to study abroad.

He also announced plans to support boxing and other sporting activities as part of his youth empowerment programme.

According to him, a youth empowerment initiative planned for November would involve young people between the ages of 12 and 25, with about N3 million expected to be committed to the programme.

Nwokedi said outstanding youths would be considered for scholarships or opportunities to travel abroad for further education or development.

He explained that the long-term objective was to build a sustainable platform through which young people could benefit from sports, education and empowerment.

“I just want to make them happy. I just want to bring the people together,” he said.

Nwokedi also stressed the importance of using the tournament to strengthen relationships between the Igbo community and other ethnic groups in Lagos.

Organisers target wider participation

The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Hon. Obinna Onyeruka, said the first edition was primarily targeted at members of the Igbo community, but plans were already in place to make future editions more inclusive.

According to him, subsequent editions would accommodate participants from other ethnic groups, including Yoruba and Hausa communities. He described the tournament as a league-style competition involving six teams.

Onyeruka said the first-place winner would receive N500,000, while the second-place winner would receive N300,000 and the third-place winner N200,000, with an additional N100,000 prize, bringing the total prize commitment to N1 million.

He said the opening matches were closely contested, with Ndi Igbo Buru'Otu and The Legend Star playing out a 0-0 draw.
The second encounter between Obi Udo and Igbo Speaking also ended goalless.

Chief Ogbuka: Tournament is about more than football

In his welcome address, the Vice President of Ndi Igbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, Chief Ogbuka, said the initiative was conceived to achieve objectives beyond sporting competition.

He said football had a unique ability to bring people together regardless of age, profession, social status or ethnic background.

“Today, we are not gathered here merely to watch a competition. We are here to celebrate and share our identity, foster friendship and strengthen the spirit of togetherness among people and communities,” he said.

Ogbuka commended the players for their determination, discipline and sportsmanship, while urging supporters to contribute positively to the success of the tournament.

He also appreciated Akinsanya for honouring the event and supporting the initiative. He called for stronger cooperation among Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba and other communities, describing the tournament as a step towards building a more united society.

Council officials attend tournament

Akinsanya was accompanied to the event by members of the sixth legislative house and other officials of the council.

Among those present were the Leader of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Olorunfemi; Deputy Leader, Hon. Tosin Opebiyi; Majority Leader, Hon. Olawale Hassan; Chief Whip, Hon. Mukandasi Musbau; Councillor representing Ikotun Ward, Hon. Omotosho Saheem; Councillor representing Igando Ward, Hon. Akinyemi Haruna; Councillor representing Obadore-Akesan Ward, Hon. Radhidat Mohammed; Chief of Staff, Ahmed Oloyede;SLG, Comr. Mojisola Ayinke Badmus; and Hon. Omolabi Emmanuel, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, among others.

Stakeholders commend initiative

Stakeholders at the event described the tournament as a welcome development for grassroots sports and community integration.

Engr. Norbert Ejike described the competition as a friendly sporting initiative capable of keeping young people engaged and promoting positive interaction.

He said grassroots football remained important in identifying and developing young talents while providing opportunities for people to interact and build relationships.

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche described the competition as a “match of unity,” saying it had provided an opportunity for members of the Igbo community to come together and showcase their talents.

He commended the organisers for successfully putting together the maiden edition and expressed confidence that subsequent editions would be better.

Similarly, Comrade Ikechukwu Izuegbunam, Youth Leader of the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos, described the tournament as a landmark event for the Ikotun-Igando community.

Izuegbunam said the community had not witnessed a competition of such nature before, describing the opening day as an exciting moment for participants and spectators.

He said the tournament offered residents an opportunity to relax and temporarily ease the pressures of everyday life.

He also commended the officiating team for coordinating the matches, noting that while disagreements were inevitable in football, they could be resolved through understanding and dialogue.

According to him, the maiden edition had also helped the organisers identify areas that needed improvement, with lessons from the first edition expected to be applied to subsequent tournaments.

Grassroots football development

The event also highlighted the importance of sustained investment in grassroots football.

Akinsanya disclosed that he had previously organised an under-14 football competition and planned to continue the initiative annually.

He said some of the young players who participated in the previous competition had been shortlisted for opportunities, while some had subsequently travelled abroad to pursue professional football careers.

He stressed the need for more competitions capable of identifying talented young footballers and providing them with opportunities to develop their careers.

Captains promise stronger performances

Following the opening matches, the captains of Ndi Igbo Buru'Otu and The Legend Star expressed optimism that the competition would achieve its objective of fostering unity.

They also promised that their teams would return stronger in subsequent matches and compete for victory while maintaining sportsmanship.

Although the opening matches produced no goals, spectators applauded the players for their commitment, defensive discipline and competitive spirit.

With the maiden edition now underway, the organisers said their long-term ambition is to transform the Eze Okpoko 1 League Cup into an annual community sporting initiative capable of promoting talent discovery, youth empowerment, education and peaceful coexistence.

The tournament is also expected to expand in subsequent editions to accommodate youths from different ethnic backgrounds, reinforcing its stated objective of using sport as a platform for unity and community development.


Read more and see photos on:
https://naomisophyblog.com/eze-okpoko-cup-debuts-in-lagos-blends-football-youth-empowerment-and-politics/

“Never Ignore Restorable Blindness”: Eye Bank Unveils Joke Silva as Ambassador, Seeks More Cornea Donors

By Naomi Onome

The Eye Bank for Restoring Sight in Nigeria, has unveiled veteran actress and cultural icon, Joke Silva, as its brand ambassador, with a renewed call for Nigerians to embrace corneal donation and help restore sight to people living with reversible blindness.

The unveiling ceremony, held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Eye Institute Complex, Ikeja, brought together medical professionals, beneficiaries, families of corneal donors, partners and media practitioners. The organisation’s campaign is anchored on its motto, “Never Ignore Restorable Blindness.”

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Board of Governors, Dr Festus Oshoba, described Silva as an appropriate choice for the advocacy campaign, citing her decades of influence in entertainment, culture and public advocacy. He said she had consistently used her platform to tell Nigerian stories and promote the country’s image, expressing confidence that her appointment would help amplify the message of corneal donation across Nigeria and beyond.

Oshoba explained that the Eye Bank is a non-profit organisation established to promote the donation, collection, preservation and distribution of transplantable corneas for people whose sight has been lost through corneal diseases or injuries. He said the organisation was established as a joint project of the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria and the Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind, with legal backing from Nigeria’s eye donation framework and the National Health Act of 2014. He added that the organisation operates from the LASUTH Eye Institute Complex, with accommodation provided by the Lagos State Government.

The Medical Director of the Eye Bank, Dr Mosunmade Faderin, said corneal blindness remains one of the reversible forms of blindness that can be treated through corneal transplantation. According to her, the Eye Bank has facilitated more than 95 successful corneal transplants, including procedures involving 19 children, but currently has more than 200 people on its waiting list. She stressed that the Eye Bank does not perform the transplant itself but facilitates the availability of donor corneas for qualified corneal surgeons while also supporting medical education, research and public awareness.

Faderin lamented the cultural and social misconceptions surrounding organ and corneal donation, saying many Nigerians remain reluctant to discuss donation because of their discomfort with death and fears surrounding the use of donated body parts. She explained that, for corneal transplantation, the transparent cornea at the front of the eye is harvested rather than the entire eye, and the procedure does not visibly disfigure the deceased. She urged people who have pledged their corneas to inform their families of their wishes, stressing that relatives must promptly contact the relevant medical authorities when the donor dies because corneal harvesting has to be carried out within a limited period.

Mrs Fola Akande, Vice-Chairman of the Eye Bank and herself a registered corneal donor, shared a deeply personal experience to reinforce the importance of donation. Akande recounted how her mother, who died suddenly on September 24, 2012, had her corneas harvested within 18 hours of her death. Despite the emotional circumstances surrounding the loss, she said the family proceeded with the donation because it was an opportunity for part of their mother to continue giving life to others. According to her, the donated corneas were successfully transplanted and the recipients are still able to see. She said the experience transformed the family's perception of donation, adding that all members of her family have since become donors.

Akande also urged beneficiaries of corneal transplants to speak openly about their experiences and help dispel the stigma associated with receiving donated tissues. She said people who regain their sight through corneal donation should become advocates for the cause by sharing their stories and demonstrating that the procedure is safe, beneficial and capable of changing lives. “It is teamwork,” she stressed, noting that the responsibility for promoting corneal donation should not rest solely on the Eye Bank but should involve donors, recipients, families, medical professionals, the media and the wider public.

The event also featured testimonies from beneficiaries and families of Nigerian corneal donors. One beneficiary, Abisade Oguntibeji, recounted how severe corneal disease left him unable to perform basic daily activities before he underwent a corneal transplant in 2022. He said his sight was restored following the procedure, enabling him to read, eat independently, move around without assistance and resume normal activities. He expressed gratitude to the medical professionals and the Eye Bank, noting that the availability of a functional eye bank in Nigeria would reduce the need for Nigerians to travel abroad in search of corneal transplants.

Another emotional testimony came from Kunleola Sodipo, whose brother was assassinated in 2010 after pledging his corneas in his will. Sodipo said the family initially faced legal and emotional challenges before his brother’s wishes were eventually honoured. The two corneas were harvested and subsequently used for two recipients, whom members of the donor’s family later met. He said the experience convinced his family that corneal donation was a meaningful way for a person to continue helping humanity even after death.

Speaking after her unveiling, Joke Silva said she accepted the ambassadorial role because restoring sight was a cause capable of improving lives without requiring donors to make financial sacrifices. She urged Nigerians, particularly influential people with large platforms, to join the campaign and use their voices to educate the public. Silva said culture must evolve with changing times, stressing that Nigeria should develop the capacity to address its healthcare challenges instead of depending excessively on other countries for resources that could be developed locally.

Dr Mosunmade also raised concerns about preventable causes of corneal blindness, particularly among children, identifying eye injuries, infections, inflammations and harmful traditional practices as major contributors. Faderin warned against the use of substances such as battery acid, urine, onion preparations and other unverified remedies in treating eye problems, stressing that such practices can cause permanent damage to the cornea. She urged parents, teachers and communities to seek qualified medical attention whenever eye problems occur.

Also in attendance were Dr. Bamidele Ayodele, Deputy Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) and Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee of LASUTH, who represented the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Adetokunbo O. Fabanwo; Dr. Aborishade Lydia Mabinuola; and other medical professionals.

The organisation said its future plans include expanding donor registration and public advocacy nationwide, strengthening partnerships with LASUTH and other tertiary hospitals, establishing a corneal preservation and training centre, supporting research and securing international grants and technical assistance. It said it relies largely on donations from individuals, corporate organisations and philanthropists, with support from the Lagos State Government, Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind, Yoruba Tennis Club, Jagal Foundation and CMC Connect LLP. The Eye Bank called for sustained media support and public participation to make Nigeria self-sufficient in corneal procurement and transplantation and ensure that no Nigerian continues to suffer avoidable blindness because a donated cornea was unavailable.

Read more on:
https://naomisophyblog.com/never-ignore-restorable-blindness-eye-bank-unveils-joke-silva-as-ambassador-seeks-more-cornea-donor/

Lagos APC Rebuilds Grassroots Structures, Unites Stakeholders Ahead of 2027 Elections

By Naomisophyblog

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has intensified its strategic reconciliation and rejuvenation efforts aimed at strengthening the political base of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The initiative, which places reconciliation, grassroots mobilisation and organisational renewal at the heart of the party’s strategy, was highlighted at a special stakeholders’ meeting held at the APC Lagos State Party Secretariat, Acme, Ogba, Lagos.

The meeting brought together party leaders, stakeholders and aggrieved aspirants in a concerted effort to address internal disagreements, rebuild trust and restore greater cohesion within the party. The engagement emphasised the need for personal and past political differences to give way to a renewed commitment to the collective interests and progress of the APC.

The reconciliation drive is particularly significant in Lagos, the political stronghold from which President Tinubu built and sustained a formidable political structure over the years. For the Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi-led APC in Lagos State, consolidating this political base requires not only sustained electoral mobilisation but also continuous engagement with stakeholders and the maintenance of a united and effective party structure.

A major feature of the gathering was the deliberate effort to reconcile aggrieved members and bring competing interests back into the party’s mainstream. The process is expected to strengthen cooperation among party actors, rebuild confidence and create a more cohesive platform for mobilising supporters ahead of 2027.

The rejuvenation agenda also extends to the grassroots, with renewed emphasis on strengthening the party’s polling-unit structures across the state.

In a symbolic demonstration of this renewed organisational focus, the Lagos State Deputy Governor and prominent APC leader, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, formally handed over nomination forms for Polling Unit Committee Members to party members entrusted with reinforcing the APC’s presence at the grassroots.

The initiative underscores the growing importance attached to polling-unit structures as the foundation of the party’s electoral strategy. Strong and functional polling-unit committees are expected to enhance grassroots communication, voter engagement, mobilisation and election-day coordination across Lagos State.

Beyond the immediate distribution of nomination forms, the exercise represents a broader effort to reactivate the party’s organisational network and strengthen the connection between party leadership and the communities that form the foundation of its electoral support.

The APC’s reconciliation and rejuvenation strategy is therefore focused on two interconnected objectives: healing internal political differences and rebuilding the grassroots structures required to translate the party’s support into sustained electoral strength.

For the Lagos APC, strengthening President Tinubu’s political base ahead of 2027 goes beyond maintaining existing structures. It requires renewing relationships, accommodating divergent interests, empowering grassroots actors and ensuring that the party remains sufficiently organised, united and responsive to the demands of a competitive electoral environment.

The stakeholders’ meeting consequently sent a strong message of renewal, unity and collective responsibility. By reconciling aggrieved members and rejuvenating its grassroots machinery, the APC is seeking to turn internal challenges into renewed political strength and greater organisational effectiveness.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, Lagos remains central to the APC’s political calculations. The party’s current strategy is focused on preserving and strengthening the political foundation associated with President Tinubu, deepening unity among stakeholders and rebuilding the grassroots network that has historically made Lagos a critical pillar of his political influence.

The emerging message is clear: reconciliation at the political level, rejuvenation at the grassroots and unity across the party will be central to consolidating the APC’s political base in Lagos and positioning the party for the 2027 elections.

APC Lagos State Media Office
August 19, 2026

Eze Chika Nwokedi, Wife Renew Vows as Police Chiefs, Business Moguls, Igbo Leaders Celebrate Couple’s 25th Anniversary

Nwokedi Marks 25 Years With Wife, Says, ‘Today I Choose You Again'

By Naomi Onome

Police chiefs, prominent Igbo leaders, business executives, community leaders, friends, and well-wishers converged in Lagos on Sunday, August 16, 2026, as the Eze Okpoko 1 of Obodoukwu, Eze Dr. Chika C. Nwokedi, celebrated his birthday and 25th wedding anniversary with his wife, Pst. Dr. (Amb.) Tessy Chika Nwokedi.

The glamorous celebration brought together an array of dignitaries, including the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon, Lagos, AIG Simeon Udofia Akpanudom; AIG Maritime, Lagos, AIG Okunade Ronke Nurat; Chief (Dr.); and some other police chiefs.

Other dignitaries include Chief Okey Udeji, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Okeyson Motors; Chief Sunday Udeh, President General of the Igbo Speaking Community; High Chief Sunday Akpoyibo; executives of the Eastern Brothers Club; as well as traditional rulers, members, and stakeholders of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria and prominent members of the Obodoukwu and wider Igbo communities.

The occasion combined the celebration of Eze Chika Nwokedi's birthday with the renewal of the couple's marriage vows, a ceremony that provided an opportunity for them to reflect on the 25 years they had spent together and reaffirm their commitment to one another.

Standing before family, friends, and well-wishers, the couple exchanged renewed vows after being reminded of the promises they made to each other a quarter of a century ago.

Eze Chika Nwokedi pledged to continue to honor, cherish, and stand by his wife, declaring, "Twenty-five years ago I chose you, and today I choose you again. I thank God for the years we have shared. I promise to continue to honor, cherish, and stand by you. May God give us grace to walk together for many more years. I love you."

His wife, Pst. Dr (Amber)Tessy Chika Nwokedi, similarly reaffirmed her commitment to her husband, thanking God for their journey and the family they had built together while promising to continue to love, honor, and support him.

One of the biggest surprises of the celebration came when Nwokedi fulfilled a promise he had made to his wife during the early years of their marriage.

According to the celebrant, he had promised that if their marriage successfully reached 25 years, he would present his wife with a car. Twenty-five years later, he kept his word.

A brand-new car was presented to Pst. Dr. Tessy Nwokedi at the ceremony, with AIG Simeon Udofia Akpanudom conducting the presentation amid cheers and excitement from the guests.

The gesture became one of the most memorable moments of the celebration, symbolizing not only a material gift but also a promise made during the couple's difficult early years and fulfilled after a quarter of a century together.

In his testimony, Nwokedi reflected on the difficult circumstances from which he rose to become a businessman, community leader, and philanthropist.

He recalled leaving Obodoukwu in Imo State for Lagos in 1992 with little formal education and limited opportunities, eventually finding his way into the Ladipo motor spare parts market.

According to him, his early years in Lagos were characterized by extreme hardship. He said he spent years sleeping on the floor of a shop, bathing outside and using public facilities, while struggling to survive and establish himself. He also recalled times when he faced challenges in paying rent and had to take on commercial transportation and other menial jobs to survive.

Despite these difficulties, Nwokedi said he refused to give up, relying on faith, hard work, honesty, and determination to change his circumstances.

His perseverance eventually earned him leadership responsibilities in the Ladipo market, where he rose to become chairman of the Ladipo Auto Central Executive Committee. He later expanded his business interests and became managing director and chief executive officer of Chipresido Merchandise Property Limited.

Reflecting on his transformation from a struggling young man to a successful businessman and landlord, Nwokedi said his journey had strengthened his belief that people should remain steadfast even when circumstances appear hopeless.

He also attributed much of his success to the support he received from his wife and her family during their early years of marriage. He recalled that when he had little money and faced difficulties, his late mother-in-law supported him financially and encouraged him.

According to him, those experiences have influenced his decision to support people facing similar challenges. Nwokedi said his greatest satisfaction was not merely in acquiring wealth but in using his resources to improve the lives of others.

He disclosed that he had built houses for widows and widowers, supported families, empowered people with business grants, and provided land and other forms of assistance to members of his community.

He said his humanitarian activities were not restricted to people from his ethnic group, adding that he had also supported the education and welfare of people from other parts of the country.

His philosophy, he said, remained that success should be measured by the number of lives positively affected.

Speaking at the event, AIG Okunade Ronke Nurat, AIG Maritime described Nwokedi as a genuine friend of the Nigeria Police Force who had consistently supported officers and promoted positive relations between the police and the public.

Okunade, who recalled meeting him when she was an assistant commissioner of police in the Lagos State Command, said Nwokedi had distinguished himself through his commitment to helping his people through legitimate means.

“What brought me closer to him personally is that he will never—I repeat, never—be found following bad causes. Whenever Eze Chika comes forward to assist, he does so genuinely and with the sincere intention of helping his people,” she said.

She also described him as a lover of the police who was always willing to support and defend officers when he believed they had acted properly.

She added that the large turnout was evidence of the goodwill the celebrant had built over the years and prayed that God would continue to bless the couple, their children, and their family.

AIG Akpanudom also congratulated the couple, describing Nwokedi as a man who related well with people and supported the police in the best way he could.

"I wish Eze Chika and his lovely wife very many happy years in harmony, peace of mind, excellent health, and a good opportunity to expand your course," he said.

He prayed that the goodwill Nwokedi had shown to others would return to him and his family, adding that his children and future generations would benefit from the positive impact he had made.

The police chief encouraged Nwokedi to remain committed to his humanitarian activities, saying he was already on the right path.

Chief (Dr.) Okey Udeji, Chairman and CEO of Okeyson Motors, who said he had known Nwokedi and his wife for more than two decades, described the celebration as evidence of the esteem in which the celebrant was held.

Udeji said the impressive turnout demonstrated that Nwokedi had built genuine relationships with his people.

If he has been doing poorly, people will stop following him. So for people to turn out, even with the bad road and everything, it shows how good he is to his people," he said.

He advised Nwokedi to continue doing good and using his influence to improve the lives of others.

Also speaking, Chief Oluchukwu Melechi described Nwokedi as a compassionate leader who had remained accessible to people in need despite his success.

He said the celebrant had consistently supported widows, the less privileged, and members of his community.

"He is someone that you can call whenever you have a problem; he'll be there for you. He doesn't feel too big. He's always loyal," Melechi said.

He called on other prominent Nigerians and community leaders to emulate Nwokedi's philanthropic activities, arguing that empowering people remained one of the most effective ways of promoting development.

His Imperial Majesty, Eze Ndigbo of Lagos State, Great Fred Nwajiagu, also praised Nwokedi for his commitment to the welfare of Igbo residents and his willingness to intervene whenever members of the community faced difficulties.

Nwajiagu described the celebrant as a "hardworking Igbo man" who had consistently worked to protect the interests of his people while promoting peaceful coexistence.

He urged Nwokedi to sustain his humanitarian activities and prayed for long life, prosperity, and continued success for him and his family.

The celebration later climaxed with the cutting of the anniversary cake, music, dancing, presentation of gifts, and goodwill messages from guests.

For Nwokedi and his wife, however, the gathering represented more than a birthday party or wedding anniversary. It was a celebration of 25 years of marriage, family, perseverance, and shared sacrifice, as well as a reflection of a journey that began with hardship and evolved into a story of entrepreneurship, community leadership, and philanthropy.

The couple received prayers and goodwill from guests, who wished them many more years of love, peace, good health, and prosperity together. Guests were also showered with gifts presented by the celebrant.

Leather Entrepreneur Ezenachukwu Victoria Nonye Receives Award of Excellence for Craftsmanship and Youth Empowerment

From Ankara Crafts to Leather Entreneurship: How Ezenachukwu Built Khal Designs and Empowered Over 500 Youth

By Naomi Onome

Ezenachukwu Victoria Nonye, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Khal Designs, a Nigerian leather goods enterprise specialising in handmade footwear and other leather products, has been honoured with an Outstanding Award of Excellence by the Ambassadors for Peace and Enlightenment Foundation (AMPEF) in recognition of her contributions to craftsmanship, youth empowerment, and the promotion of locally made products.

The award, presented on August 13, 2026, recognised Nonye for her “selfless service to humanity, steadfastness and impact” in the production of natural and locally inspired bags and shoes that meet international standards. She described the recognition as particularly meaningful because it was conferred without any financial requirement, recalling that another organisation had previously requested N230,000 before issuing an award.

“An award of excellence should never be paid for. It should be given to those who are deserving,” she said.

According to Nonye, Khal Designs was established in 2016, though her journey into leather craftsmanship began in 2015 when she participated in an Ankara craft programme organised through her church. She emerged as the best student in her cohort and subsequently worked with her trainer. During the programme, she said learned how to refurbish old footwear by covering them with Ankara fabric before advancing to training in shoemaking from scratch.

When an academic strike disrupted activities at her university, she returned home and used the period to further develop her skills. Upon resuming school, she began experimenting with her craft and eventually set up a small roadside stall, which later evolved into Khal Designs, she said.

A graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, where she studied Crop Science and Technology, Nonye disclosed that she chose to pursue entrepreneurship rather than a career aligned with her academic background, building a livelihood around her passion for leather craftsmanship.

Khal Designs now produces men’s shoes, slides, slippers, sandals, belts, and wallets, and has gradually expanded its customer base. Nonye noted that the business experienced slow growth in its early years, with significant patronage beginning around 2024.

“When I started, growth was very gradual and slow, but I remained consistent,” she said, emphasising that persistence has been critical to the survival and expansion of the business.

Beyond production, Nonye told Naomisophyblog that she has prioritised youth empowerment, training more than 500 individuals through government-sponsored programmes, private sessions, and online platforms. She explained that she has served as a trainer in two government empowerment initiatives, in addition to mentoring individuals at her workshop and through digital channels.

Some of her trainees are now employees of Khal Designs, while others have established independent businesses within the leather industry. “I can trace some of the people I have trained and see how well they are doing. I also make it a point to follow up on their progress,” she said.

Despite the progress of her business, Nonye identified inadequate access to finance as a major challenge facing leather entrepreneurs. She explained that producing quality footwear requires specialised tools and machinery, many of which are costly and difficult for small businesses to acquire.

She also highlighted the challenge of sourcing quality leather and raw materials, noting that limited availability often restricts her ability to scale certain designs. “If I get a design, I may only be able to produce five or six pairs, and once that design is out in the market, I may not be able to recreate it again,” she explained.

Nonye called on the Nigerian government to strengthen support for young entrepreneurs and local manufacturers, arguing that investment in small businesses and domestic production would significantly boost economic growth and job creation. She specifically urged improved access to machinery and locally sourced raw materials.

She noted that although Nigeria has abundant leather resources, local manufacturers often struggle to access them due to competition from foreign buyers offering higher prices. “We have leather in this country, but there are no effective policies that help us secure it. As a Nigerian, I cannot easily access leather produced in my own country,” she said, advocating for policies that prioritise local manufacturers.

The entrepreneur also highlighted the high cost of powering her operations, noting that unreliable electricity supply has forced her to rely on alternative energy sources, including generators and solar power.

“As you can see, my generator is running. And because there is no sunlight, I also rely on solar. I am running on both solar and fuel,” she said.

She explained that, the cost of alternative energy significantly increases production expenses and limits the competitiveness of small businesses. She therefore appealed for improved access to affordable and reliable electricity, as well as better support for production inputs.

Addressing young Nigerians interested in entrepreneurship but yet to identify their niche, Nonye encouraged them to discover their passion, seek proper training, and commit to mastering their chosen craft. She noted that vocational skills are often undervalued despite their economic potential, stressing that excellence naturally attracts opportunities.

“What is worth doing is worth doing well. When you are good at what you do, the market will find you, no matter where you are,” she said, advising aspiring leather artisans to learn from reputable trainers rather than rushing into the trade without adequate preparation.

For Nonye, her journey from an Ankara craft trainee to the founder of a growing leather enterprise reflects the potential of vocational skills to create sustainable opportunities for young Nigerians.

“There is always light at the end of the tunnel. I am a living witness,” she said, adding that perseverance, continuous learning, and dedication have helped her overcome early challenges.

Nonye expressed gratitude to God, her supporters, and AMPEF for the recognition, describing the award as an affirmation of years of hard work, resilience, and commitment to her craft.

With Khal Designs serving a growing clientele and having trained more than 500 individuals, she said the recognition has strengthened her resolve to continue expanding the business, mentoring young people, and promoting locally made Nigerian leather products.

“I am grateful to God for the strength and grace to have come this far. I am also grateful to AMPEF Group for recognising my efforts through this award,” she said.

International Youth Day: GHC Mobilises Students for Malaria-Free Nigeria as EKSU, Sahlan Join the Nationwidwide Competition

By Primetime Reports

The Geneith Health Competition (GHC) has rallied Nigerian youths to take a leading role in the fight against malaria as Nigeria joins the world to mark International Youth Day 2026.

The GHC initiator and CEOAFRICA Managing Director, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, and Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, congratulated Nigerian youths while urging students nationwide to become active agents in the campaign for a malaria-free Nigeria.

The call aligns with the 2026 International Youth Day theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” which highlights the shared aspirations of young people despite differences in their social, economic and geographical circumstances.

The campaign received fresh momentum as Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, and Sahlan College of Health Science and Technology, Jos, formally joined the GHC ahead of the October 30 registration deadline.

Ilobanafor said young Nigerians, regardless of their backgrounds, share common aspirations for good health, quality education, meaningful participation and a prosperous future, stressing that malaria remains a major threat to these goals.

He urged more universities, polytechnics and colleges of education to participate, describing the competition as an opportunity for students to win scholarships, develop leadership skills and contribute to public health advocacy.
At EKSU, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, approved students’ participation and encouraged undergraduates to compete for the top prizes, while Sahlan College also expressed strong institutional commitment to the initiative.

Organisers said student participation has surged nationwide, with youths increasingly positioned as Malaria Ambassadors to drive grassroots sensitisation, digital advocacy and community sanitation.

The GHC, organised by CEOAFRICA, sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals and powered by Coatal Forte Softgel, has an overall ₦1 billion prize pool covering cash awards, scholarships, training and educational materials across junior secondary, senior secondary and tertiary categories.

The competition begins with a virtual preliminary examination, after which the top 50 qualifiers in each state advance to live public-health quizzes, regional contests and the national grand finale. Students across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory can register on www.geneithhealthcompetition.com before the October 30 deadline.

Ilobanafor called on Nigerians to unite across regional, political and ideological lines to confront malaria, stressing that empowering young people with health knowledge and educational opportunities is critical to building a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria.

Read more on:
https://primetimereports.com.ng/international-youth-day-ghc-mobilises-students-for-malaria-free-nigeria-as-eksu-sahlan-join-the-nationwidwide-competition/

Abbas, Bago, Akume Seek Stronger Support for Community Pharmacists to Make Essential Drugs Affordable

By Primetime Reports

The Federal Government and state governments have been urged to deepen structural and financial support for community pharmacists to enable them subsidise essential medicines and make healthcare more affordable for millions of Nigerians.

The call was made at the 45th Annual National Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), held from July 27 to August 1, 2026, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

The conference, themed “UNITY 2026: From Local Pharmacy Practice to Global Impact, Managing Complex Healthcare Systems,” brought together senior government officials, legislators, regulators, pharmaceutical experts and community pharmacists from across the country to chart a new course for pharmaceutical care and healthcare delivery.

Representing the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Chairman of the House Committee on Health Institutions, Hon. Amos Magaji, commended the ACPN for its sustained commitment to promoting safe and responsible medicine use in Nigeria.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who served as Special Guest of Honour, also lauded community pharmacists for their contribution to expanding access to quality medicines, charging them to ensure that pharmaceutical products available to Nigerians remain safe, effective, affordable and of assured quality.

Akume described community pharmacists as critical frontline healthcare professionals capable of playing a decisive role in tackling medicine affordability and accessibility, particularly among vulnerable Nigerians.

He highlighted recent interventions by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including the Executive Order suspending import duties, taxes and Value Added Tax on pharmaceutical raw materials, active pharmaceutical ingredients, medical equipment and other essential healthcare inputs.

According to him, the policy is aimed at reducing the cost of domestic pharmaceutical production, stimulating local manufacturing and ultimately driving down medicine prices.
However, Akume acknowledged that significant gaps persist, especially in rural communities where millions of Nigerians still struggle to access affordable medicines and reliable pharmaceutical services.

He therefore urged community pharmacists to complement government interventions by intensifying the fight against counterfeit and substandard medicines, supporting campaigns against drug abuse and substance misuse, participating in disease surveillance and emergency preparedness, and strengthening Nigeria’s wider public health response. Akume said such collaboration was vital to advancing the country’s pursuit of Universal Health Coverage.

In a similar vein, Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, called for stronger collaboration between state governments and community pharmacists, describing community pharmacies as resilient frontline healthcare centres whose potential must be fully integrated into Nigeria’s primary healthcare system.

Represented by the Niger State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana, Bago said proactive public-private partnerships with community pharmacists could strengthen drug supply chains, reduce retail medicine costs and expand access to essential healthcare services.

He specifically advocated the integration of community pharmacies into state health insurance schemes and primary healthcare networks, arguing that such partnerships could provide a practical pathway to subsidising essential medicines and easing the financial burden on vulnerable families.

The governor maintained that strengthening community pharmacy practice would also accelerate Nigeria’s efforts to achieve sustainable Universal Health Coverage.

The conference attracted prominent stakeholders, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, represented by the Director for Food and Drugs, Mrs. Olufowobi Adeola-Yusuf; Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Pharm. Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro; and Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Muyi Aina, represented by Pharm. Hauwa Tensei.

PSN President and chief host, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, stressed the importance of professional unity and policy alignment, noting that community pharmacists remain among the most accessible healthcare professionals and often serve as the first point of contact for millions of Nigerians seeking medical assistance.

ACPN National Chairman, Pharm. Ezeh Ambrose Igwekamma, described the conference as a defining moment for deeper collaboration between the pharmacy profession and government.

He said pharmacists remained ready to work with government and other stakeholders in the national interest, urging policymakers to recognise the profession as a strategic partner in healthcare governance and national development.

The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, disclosed that the council was strengthening professional regulation, including efforts to advance online pharmacy regulation.

He added that the council facilitated specialised Mandatory Continuing Professional Development training during the conference in areas including cardiopulmonary resuscitation, professional ethics and substance abuse prevention.

Representing the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, Dr. Rametu Momodu urged pharmacists to deploy technology more aggressively to strengthen medicine safety and surveillance.

She encouraged community pharmacists to utilise platforms including the NAFDAC Greenbook, Med Safety App and Scan2Verify technology, noting that every community pharmacy could serve as a vital surveillance post in Nigeria’s medicine-safety system.

Delivering the keynote address, titled “Raising Community Pharmacy Practice in Nigeria to Global Standard: Navigating the Complex Nigerian Political System,” the Managing Director of Evans Therapeutics, Pharm. Wale Oyenuga, called for greater political engagement by pharmacists to influence policies capable of driving sustainable growth in the pharmaceutical sector.

Beyond the conference hall, the ACPN used its communiqué to draw attention to some of the most pressing challenges confronting Nigeria’s healthcare system, including structural weaknesses, persistent drug abuse and the alarming brain drain within the pharmaceutical profession.

The association disclosed that more than 9,500 pharmacists had left Nigeria in recent years, warning that the continued loss of skilled professionals posed a serious threat to patient safety and effective healthcare delivery.
To close medicine and healthcare access gaps, ACPN identified community pharmacies as largely untapped platforms capable of delivering first-contact healthcare services such as hypertension and diabetes screening, malaria care, antenatal services, family planning and smoking-cessation interventions.

The association argued that greater utilisation of these facilities would help decongest overstretched tertiary hospitals while taking essential healthcare services closer to the people.

On regulatory and legislative reforms, ACPN commended the Senate Committee on Health for rejecting the proposed NHFRA Bill following opposition from stakeholders. It also cautioned against proposed amendments affecting NAFDAC and 14 professional regulatory councils.

The association called on the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, NAFDAC and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to extend strict regulatory enforcement to private hospital pharmacies operating outside existing laws.
Describing drug abuse as a national social emergency, ACPN advocated stiffer penalties for illicit drug dispensers, increased taxation on alcohol and tobacco, the establishment of modern rehabilitation centres across the six geopolitical zones, as well as improved funding and capacity for the NDLEA, PCN, NAFDAC and the Nigeria Police Force.

The conference further submitted three major structural proposals to the Federal Government aimed at strengthening medicine security, protecting public funds and rebuilding Nigeria’s pharmaceutical infrastructure.

Among the proposals was an amendment to the Fake Drug Act to introduce tougher sanctions, including a mandatory 20-year prison sentence for first-time offenders and life imprisonment with complete asset forfeiture for repeat dealers in counterfeit medicines.

The association also proposed the establishment of a National Drug Management Agency to institutionalise the Drug Revolving Fund and coordinate centralised pool procurement.

According to ACPN, the proposed agency should directly manage the 10 per cent allocation for essential medicines under the Basic National Health Provision Fund, eliminating unnecessary intermediaries and reducing the risk of leakages in public funds.

The association further called for the establishment of a National Postgraduate College of Pharmacy to train specialist pharmacists locally, reduce dependence on expensive foreign training, conserve foreign exchange and strengthen Nigeria’s clinical pharmacy workforce.

The conference culminated in the election of a new National Executive Council for the 2026/2027 administration, with Pharm. Ezeh Ambrose Igwekamma emerging as National Chairman.

Other elected officers include Pharm. Adegboyega Oguntoye, National Vice Chairman; Pharm. Obiageri Ethel Ikwu, National Secretary; Pharm. Chioma Chike-Nwankwo, National Assistant Secretary; Pharm. Roland Tomiwa Rotimi, National Treasurer; Pharm. Giwa Babajide Hammed, National Financial Secretary; Pharm. Luke Atang Bokynyam, National Internal Auditor; Pharm. Samira Abubakar Umar, National Editor-in-Chief; and Pharm. Akpan Tony Anderson, National Publicity Secretary.

Pharm. Adewale Aderemi Oladigbolu emerged as Immediate Past National Chairman.
In his inaugural remarks, Igwekamma pledged to lead a transformative administration focused on strengthening the association and advancing the role of community pharmacists in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

He urged the Federal Government to act swiftly on the resolutions reached at the conference, stressing that decisive implementation would help revitalise the health sector, strengthen medicine security and bring affordable, world-class healthcare closer to Nigerians.

The conference also drew the presence of senior figures and veterans of the pharmacy profession, including the President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Pharm.

Ayuba Ibrahim Tanko, FPSN; Chairman, Board of Trustees of ACPN and past PSN President, Pharm. Dr. Chief U. N. O. Uwaga, FPSN; and past PSN Presidents Pharm. Yaro Budah, FPSN; Pharm. Azubuike B. Okwor, FPSN; Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, FPSN; and Pharm. Prof. Cyril Usifoh, FPSN.

Past National Chairmen of ACPN in attendance included Pharm. Deji Osinoiki, FPSN; Pharm. Williams Etubiebi, Esq.; Pharm. Dr. Ejiro Foyibo, FPSN; Pharm. Olufemi Adebayo, FPSN; and Pharm. Dr. Samuel Adekola.

With the conference resolutions now before government, community pharmacists have placed a clear challenge on policymakers: move beyond recognition of their frontline role and create the financial, regulatory and institutional support needed to turn community pharmacies into stronger pillars of affordable healthcare delivery across Nigeria.

Read more on:
https://primetimereports.com.ng/abbas-bago-akume-seek-stronger-support-for-community-pharmacists-to-make-essential-drugs-affordable/

Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association Celebrates August-Born Members as Eze Chika Nwokedi Receives Car, Gifts for Exceptional Philanthropy

By Naomi Onome

The Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, a socio-cultural organisation, celebrated its members born in the month of August in a colourful ceremony that featured goodwill messages, cultural displays, and the presentation of gifts.

The event's major highlight was the presentation of a brand-new car to the Association's President, Eze (Amb.) Dr. Chika Nwokedi (Okpoko I of Obodoukwu), by Igbos in recognition of his outstanding philanthropic contributions and years of selfless service to humanity.

The ceremony attracted traditional rulers, security chiefs, business leaders, religious figures, community stakeholders, and members of the association from different parts of the country, all of whom gathered to celebrate the August-born members while paying glowing tributes to Eze Nwokedi's generosity and selfless leadership.

The over 25 Igbo stakeholders who presented the car gift to Eze Chika Nwokedi  described the gift as a token of appreciation for his unwavering dedication to supporting widows, vulnerable children, and less privileged members of society.

Apart from the vehicle, several gifts, including a large refrigerator presented by representatives of a tyre importation company, were also handed over to the President as admirers and associates took turns to honour him.

Speaking at the event, the Grand Mayor of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, Obi Tochukwu, described Eze Nwokedi as "a man of the people" whose passion for humanity has continued to attract admiration from all walks of life.

According to him, the large turnout at the celebration was a reflection of the love and respect people have for the celebrant.

"I wish him long life, good health and God's continuous blessings. Eze Okpoko is a good man who has consistently impacted lives. His generosity over the years speaks for itself, and today you can see the evidence in the number of people gathered to celebrate him," he said.

Also speaking, Deputy Commissioner of Police Obiora Okonkwo, who described himself as a member of the association and a close associate of the celebrant, congratulated Eze Nwokedi on attaining another year.

He prayed for God's continued protection, good health, and fulfilment of all his aspirations, noting that the celebrant enjoys cordial relationships with officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force across the country because of his humility and accommodating nature.

The wife of the celebrant, Pastor Ambassador Dr. Tessy Chika Nwokedi (Queen Ugoeze Adakaada I), described her husband as a compassionate and selfless man whose greatest joy is putting smiles on the faces of others.

She said her husband often gives to people even when it means making personal sacrifices.

"He is a philanthropist, a loving husband and a man with a genuine heart for humanity. Even when he has little, he still gives. My prayer is that God continues to bless him with more resources so that he can continue touching lives," she said.

She explained that celebrating members born every month is a standing tradition of the association, adding that the August edition usually attracts greater attention because the Association's founder and President is one of the celebrants.

Businessman and Chief Executive Officer of Cartier Wine and Hillux Paints Nigeria Limited, High Chief Sunny Akpoyibo, who said he had known Eze Nwokedi for over two decades, described him as one of the most generous individuals he had ever met.

According to him, Eze Nwokedi never hesitates to assist anyone in need, regardless of his personal circumstances.

"If Eze has his last one thousand naira and someone genuinely needs food, he can give out that money without hesitation. He believes that when you give, God answers your prayers."

He recalled that the philanthropist had distributed more than 230 bags of rice alongside clothing and cash empowerment to widows and vulnerable persons across Lagos, irrespective of tribe.

Akpoyibo disclosed that Eze Nwokedi's lifestyle of giving had inspired him to embark on similar humanitarian projects within the Urhobo community in Lagos.

Representatives of a tyre importation company, Victor Benjamin and Mr. Kelvin Lee, also attended the celebration.

They described Eze Nwokedi as not only a valued business partner but also a dependable friend and brother whose support has remained invaluable over the years.

The company presented him with a large refrigerator in appreciation of the cordial relationship they have built over time.

"We wish him long life, prosperity and God's continued blessings. He has always been there whenever we needed him and we pray he celebrates many more years in good health," Victor Benjamin said.

In his emotional response, Eze Nwokedi expressed profound gratitude to members of the association and his numerous well-wishers for the overwhelming show of love.

He admitted that receiving a vehicle came as a complete surprise.

"When you are doing good, people are watching you. I never expected this gift. More than 25 people came together to buy this vehicle for me. Honestly, I would rather spend money helping widows than buying expensive cars, but they insisted that I deserve it. I am deeply touched."

He said the numerous gifts he received confirmed that people appreciate genuine acts of kindness.

The philanthropist reiterated that his greatest desire is not personal wealth but having enough resources to continue helping the needy.

"I pray that God blesses me more so that I can touch more lives. My happiness comes from helping widows, feeding the hungry, paying hospital bills, empowering people and putting smiles on faces."

According to him, his humanitarian activities are personally funded and not sponsored by any government or organisation.

He revealed that he regularly distributes food items, including rice, noodles and clothing, while also assisting families with medical bills, school fees and business support.

He further disclosed that he had recently financed an ₦8.5 million borehole project to provide free water for residents in a community experiencing water shortages.

He noted that the facility, alongside another free water project at his residence, remains accessible to everyone without charge.

Speaking on the importance of generosity, Eze Nwokedi urged Nigerians, especially those blessed with resources, to emulate the culture of giving.

He said true success should be measured by the number of lives positively impacted rather than the amount of wealth accumulated.

"If you want your children to succeed, help other people's children. Whatever you do in life, whether good or bad, people are watching. We came into this world with nothing and we shall leave with nothing. What matters is the lives we touch."

He added that several individuals who had witnessed his philanthropic activities had also begun empowering others within their communities, describing such developments as the greatest reward for his efforts.

Also paying tribute, Vera Jonas described Eze Nwokedi as a mentor whose humility and compassion distinguish him from many leaders.

She noted that he consistently places the needs of others above his own and prayed for God's continued strength and protection over his life.

The event also featured the celebration of other members born in August, including Vincent Emmanuel Onyedikachi (Holy Temple Youth Leader, Ijegun/Ijedodo), Chinedu Ebrim Anara (Ndi Oma), Chinevuzor Chibuzo (Iron Money), Eziada Chioma Dike, Lolo Chizoba Okoli (Chizzy Awesome, Adaigbo Di Ora Nma), Chief Chibueze Obi Ozoego, Prince Blessed Peter, Okoye Richard Chukwunonso (Ochendu Na Ozubulu), Onyekachi Okonkwo, and MC Chukwuemeka Martins (The Celebrity MC).

The celebration ended with goodwill messages, prayers, presentation of gifts and renewed calls on privileged Nigerians to embrace philanthropy as a way of promoting unity, compassion and sustainable community development.

Eze Chika Nwokedi, despite being the celebrant, showed generosity by giving out food items, wristwatches, and other gifts to attendees including journalists. He said giving is always in his heart.

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Human Rights Advocate Urges FG to End 'Exploitative' Graduation Ceremonies, Arbitrary Charges in Private Schools

By Naomi Onome

A Human Rights Advocate and President of the Ambassadors for Peace and Enlightenment Foundation (AMPEF), Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, has called on the Federal Government to introduce a nationwide policy to regulate private schools and end what he described as exploitative practices that are placing severe financial burdens on Nigerian parents.

Iche made the appeal while reacting to what he described as the growing commercialization of education by some private schools through compulsory graduation ceremonies for pupils in non-terminal classes, the sale of customized textbooks and exercise books at inflated prices, and the imposition of mandatory party levies.

According to him, many private schools now organize graduation ceremonies for pupils moving from nursery to primary school and from one lower class to another, compelling parents to pay between ₦80,000 and ₦200,000 for graduation gowns, outfits, photographs, and celebration fees.

He disclosed that some parents have been forced to borrow money to meet such demands, citing the case of a woman who reportedly sought financial assistance simply to purchase a graduation gown for her children.

Describing the trend as unacceptable, Iche said graduation ceremonies were traditionally meant for graduates of higher institutions and should not be commercialized at the nursery and primary school levels.

He noted that the financial burden is compounded because the graduation expenses are often demanded just weeks before a new academic term begins, when parents are again expected to pay school fees.

The human rights advocate also condemned the practice of private schools compelling parents to purchase exercise books and textbooks exclusively from the schools instead of allowing them to buy more affordable alternatives in the open market.

According to him, many schools now produce customized textbooks and workbooks while changing them every academic session, making it impossible for younger siblings to reuse books previously used by older ones.

He said the practice has significantly increased the cost of education for families already grappling with the country's economic challenges.

Iche further criticized the inclusion of compulsory "party fees" in school bills, alleging that some schools have denied pupils access to classes because their parents failed to pay such charges despite paying their tuition fees.

He called on the Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education and Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in Lagos State Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun to strengthen regulation of private schools, insisting that all educational institutions, whether public or private, should be subject to effective government oversight.

He urged the Federal Government to prohibit compulsory graduation ceremonies for non-terminal classes, regulate arbitrary levies imposed by schools, ensure textbooks remain standardized and reusable across academic sessions, and allow parents the freedom to purchase educational materials from the open market.

Iche pointed to states such as Imo, where restrictions have reportedly been introduced against non-terminal graduation ceremonies, and urged the Federal Government to adopt similar measures nationwide to protect parents from excessive financial demands.

Local Manufacturers Slam Government Delegation to Benin Republic as a "Sacrilege" Amid Domestic Industrial Crisis

By Naomi Onome

Local business owners and key players in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector have expressed outrage over the Federal Government's decision to send a high-level political delegation to the Republic of Benin to study manufacturing and industrial park operations.

Leading the outcry, Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, a prominent entrepreneur and President of the Association of Micro-Entrepreneurs of Nigeria (AMEN), described the move as a "shameful act" and a direct insult to domestic producers who are currently struggling to keep their businesses afloat amid severe economic hardship.

The criticism follows an official diplomatic visit led by Vice President Kashim Shettima alongside six state governors—including Hope Uzodimma (Imo), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Dikko Radda (Katsina), and Umar Namadi (Jigawa). The delegation traveled to Cotonou to tour the 1,640-hectare Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) to evaluate its integrated textile and agricultural processing model for potential replication under Nigeria's Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) program.

However, Comrade Iche argued that sending political office holders—rather than actual factory owners and private-sector operators—renders the entire exercise meaningless. He raised sharp questions regarding the composition of the delegation, pointing out that political figures lack the practical manufacturing background needed to implement industrial strategies.

He questioned what the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, was doing on such a mission as a delegate, asking how many of the political attendees actually own factories, who they intend to report to, and how they plan to translate whatever knowledge they gain into practical application on Nigerian soil.

A major point of contention raised by the AMEN President is the total exclusion of real manufacturing stakeholders and organized private sector (OPS) groups. Iche revealed that despite making inquiries, no leading business association was consulted or invited to be part of the delegation.

He noted that the government failed to host a national stakeholders' meeting or involve prominent manufacturing bodies, including Association of Micro-Entrepreneurs of Nigeria (AMEN), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Nigerian Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (NASME), the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), and the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria (ASBON).

Expressing dismay over the government's failure to consult those on the front lines, Iche questioned whether policymakers are truly aware of the severe operational struggles and power supply challenges facing domestic manufacturers.

Comrade Iche also highlighted the irony of studying industrial growth in Benin Republic, pointing out that many of the thriving facilities in Cotonou's free zones are owned by Nigerian manufacturers who were forced to relocate due to a harsh domestic business environment. He lamented that businesses fleeing Nigeria continue to produce goods under more favorable foreign conditions and export them back into the domestic market, effectively turning Nigeria into a dumping ground.

In a scathing assessment of the administration's handling of local industries, the AMEN President stated that the government has allowed indigenous manufacturers to crumble while turning around to admire industrial progress abroad. He described the situation as a sacrilege, adding that local manufacturers who are still surviving are virtually in a coma, and declaring that everyone involved in the trip should cover their faces in shame.

In response to public backlash regarding the trip, government officials maintained that the tour was a strategic peer-learning initiative aimed at rebuilding Nigeria’s textile and agro-processing capabilities under the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) program.

According to the Presidency, state governors participated directly to evaluate how the GDIZ public-private partnership model could be replicated locally to foster state-level industrial hubs and drive job creation.

Despite these assurances, AMEN and other organized private sector groups insist that meaningful industrial growth will remain elusive until the government engages active local producers directly and resolves systemic bottlenecks like high electricity tariffs, foreign exchange volatility, and multiple taxation.

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ASIS 2026 Secures Strategic Partnerships to Accelerate Africa's Sustainable Development

By Naomisophy Blog

Lagos, Nigeria

With renewed urgency and a shared commitment to reshape Africa's development future, the fifth edition of the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS 2026), co-convened by Sterling One Foundation, the United Nations in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, and the Lagos State Government, brought together over 2,000 leaders, policymakers, investors, philanthropists, development partners, business executives, innovators, and young changemakers from across Africa and beyond to drive bold conversations, create transformative partnerships, and unlock the financing needed to build resilient and inclusive economies.

Held under the theme, "Financing for Development: Building Resilience and Transforming Emerging Economies,"the summit reinforced a powerful message: Africa's development ambitions will be realised not through isolated efforts, but through purposeful collaboration, innovative financing, and collective action.

Over three days, ASIS 2026 translated dialogue into action, mobilising partnerships, unlocking investment opportunities, and advancing practical solutions to strengthen resilience and accelerate sustainable development across the continent.

The summit also secured renewed commitments from key partners, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Seplat Energy, IHS Towers, and The Coca-Cola Company, to deepen collaboration, mobilise capital, and scale people-centred solutions that will accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while unlocking Africa's immense potential.

Delivering her keynote address, Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, underscored the importance of moving beyond commitments to measurable action.

"Africa possesses the talent, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit needed to shape a more prosperous future. What is required now is bold leadership, strategic investment and stronger partnerships that place people at the centre of development. Financing for development is not simply about mobilising resources, it is about creating opportunities, strengthening resilience and ensuring that no one is left behind as Africa charts its own
development pathway."

Speaking at the summit, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Nigeria's Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to creating an enabling environment that attracts investment and drives sustainable economic transformation. "Nigeria remains committed to implementing policies that strengthen investor confidence, promote inclusive growth and accelerate sustainable development.

Achieving Africa's development aspirations requires innovative financing, sound governance and sustained collaboration between governments, the private sector, development partners and civil society. Together, we can unlock the capital and opportunities needed to transform our economies."

Speaking on behalf of the Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, reaffirmed Lagos’ position as a leading destination for investment and innovation while calling for stronger partnerships to address Africa’s development priorities. “Africa’s future will be shaped by our ability to invest in people, infrastructure, innovation and sustainable enterprises.

Lagos is proud to host conversations that inspire action and partnerships capable of driving meaningful impact. We must continue to build resilient institutions and economies that create opportunities for every African.”

Reflecting on the significance of the summit, Olapeju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, described ASIS as more than a conference, but a platform that continues to catalyse action across the continent. "ASIS 2026 has reaffirmed a simple truth: Africa already has the ideas, talent and determination to shape its future. What we need now is bold collaboration, innovative financing and the resolve to move from dialogue to delivery. Every partnership forged and every commitment made here brings us closer to building resilient economies and creating lasting impact for millions across the continent. Our work does not end with this summit, it continues through the partnerships we build and the actions we take together."

Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, Chair of the Africa Social Impact Network (ASIN) Advisory Board, highlighted the importance of sustaining the momentum generated at the summit through stronger institutions and year-round collaboration. "The outcomes of ASIS 2026 demonstrate that Africa's greatest opportunity lies in sustained collaboration that extends beyond annual convenings. The launch of the Africa Social Impact Network marks an important step towards institutionalising that collaboration by connecting governments,
development institutions, businesses, academia, philanthropies, and investors on a continuous basis. By strengthening partnerships, mobilising knowledge and financing, and supporting implementation, ASIN will help translate bold ideas into measurable outcomes that advance Africa's long-term economic transformation and sustainable development."

As ASIS 2026 drew to a close, the diversity of voices, depth of dialogue, and strength of the partnerships created reaffirmed the summit's position as Africa's leading platform for advancing sustainable development. More than a convening, ASIS continues to transform bold ideas into collective action, mobilising the partnerships, investments, and solutions needed to build resilient economies, accelerate sustainable development, and shape a more prosperous future for Africa.

About the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS)
The Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), co-convened by the Sterling One Foundation and the United Nations, is a premier platform for accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovation, financing, and partnerships. Since 2022, ASIS has convened leaders across sectors to co-create actionable solutions that advance sustainable development in Africa.

For more information visit https://theimpactsummit.org/
For Media inquiries:
Chiwendu Isaiah
PR and Communications, Sterling One Foundation
Email: chiwendu.isaiah@sterling.ng
Phone no: 0703126968

Temitope Yusuff, Vice President, Group Audit and Risk, IHS Nigeria; Nwamaka Onyemelukwe, Senior Director, Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability, The Coca-Cola Company; Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, Chair of the Africa Social Impact Network (ASIN) Advisory Board; Rukaiya el-Rufai, Special Adviser to the President, National Economic Council (NEC)/Climate Change; Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO, Sterling One Foundation; Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State; Muriel Mafico, Resident Representative, UNFPA Nigeria; Toyin Akinniyi, Regional Portfolio Director, Luminate; Dr Nana Chidi-Emmanuel, Board Chair, Plan International Nigeria, Dapo Otunla, SVP/Chief Corporate Services Officer (CCSO), IHS Nigeria Limited, Molade Adeniyi, CEO, Teach for Nigeria; Olawanle Moronkeji, Chief Operating Officer, Phillips Consulting Limited, and Partners and Stakeholders at the just concluded 5th Africa Social Impact Summit 2026 held in Lagos