₦airaland Forum

The council of ilamuren kingmakers in Ijebu-Ode, led by the Olisa, Chief Rasheed Adeoye Adesanya, has approved the nomination of five princes for the Awujale throne.

In a letter addressed to the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and personally signed by the Olisa, he said the kingmakers acted under Section 4(2) of the Chiefs Law 1957, and the Customary Law regulating the selection and succession to the Awujale of ljebuland.

The letter further listed the nominees as Prince Ademorin Aliu Kuye, Prince Isiaq Ayodele Adewale Adekoya (Eleruja), Prince Onabanjo Abimbola John, Prince Oluwaseun Waheed Omopenu Onanuga, and Prince Olabode Onanuga.

For more, visit: https://themomentng.com/2026/06/18/awujale-throne-olisa-kingmakers-nominate-5-princes-send-names-to-governor/

Lawyer writes Real Estate firm PWAN Group, for allegedly withholding client’s N83.3m



A legal practitioner, Ademola Adefolaju has demanded the payment of N83.3 million from a real estate firm, PWAN Group Limited, being his client’s outstanding Indebtedness.

The lawyer’s client, Dhairmistress Luxury Hair had entered into a buy to sell contract agreement with the real estate company.

The lawyer’s client, Dhairmistress Luxury Hair had entered into a contract agreement with the real estate company, an accomodations.

During the alleged failed contract, Dhairmistress Luxury Hair, was said to have invested it’s hard earned money into the company expecting a total sum of N88.3 million, as Return on Investment (RoI), but real estate firm only paid N5 million, while the sum of N83,300,000 remained unpaid.

The lawyer also alleged that all the cheques issued by the the firm were dishonoured upon presentation for payment.

For more, visit: https://themomentng.com/2026/06/04/lawyer-writes-real-estate-firm-pwan-group-for-allegedly-withholding-clients-n83-3m/

Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), a member of Coca-Cola HBC Group, has welcomed 20 young Nigerians into the 2026 cohort of its Youth Empowered Internship Programme, reaffirming its commitment to equipping young people with practical workplace experience and skills that enhance employability and career readiness.

The six-month internship programme provides participants with immersive learning opportunities across key business functions, including Supply Chain, and Commercial. Throughout the programme, the interns will gain hands-on experience, receive mentorship from experienced professionals, and develop critical workplace competencies in one of Nigeria’s leading FMCG companies.

The new cohort was selected from a pool of Youth Empowered beneficiaries across several tertiary institutions, including the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State University (LASU), University of Abuja and the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), following a competitive screening process.

The initiative builds on the success of the inaugural cohort launched in 2025, where 10 participants completed a six-month placement across various business functions within NBC. Demonstrating the programme’s impact, at least three members of the pioneer cohort have since transitioned into employees within the business.

Since its launch in 2017, the Youth Empowered programme has impacted more than 70,000 young Nigerians through employability training, entrepreneurship development, professional skills acquisition, and structured internship opportunities. The programme has also supported participants interested in vocational careers through access to professional training in areas such as culinary arts and mixology.

Speaking on the significance of the programme, Director of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at Nigerian Bottling Company, Soromidayo George, said:

“Creating meaningful pathways from education to employment is essential to unlocking the potential of young people. Through Youth Empowered, we are equipping young Nigerians with practical skills, workplace exposure, and professional networks that enhance their employability and prepare them to thrive in today’s evolving world of work.”
She added:

“The success of our first internship cohort demonstrates the transformative impact of meaningful workplace experience. We are particularly encouraged that three members of the pioneer cohort have progressed into full-time roles within our business, validating the programme’s ability to create tangible career opportunities. We are excited to welcome this new cohort and look forward to supporting their growth and development over the next six months.”

For the participants, the internship represents an opportunity to apply their knowledge, gain industry experience, and accelerate their professional development.

Chirah Sylvia, one of the 2026 interns, expressed her enthusiasm about joining the programme:
“Being selected for this internship is both an honour and an exciting opportunity. I am eager to learn from experienced professionals, gain practical industry exposure, and develop skills that will help me build a successful career. I believe this experience will challenge me, broaden my perspective, and prepare me for the future.”

Similarly, Tolulope Arowogbola highlighted the value of the experience:

“The Youth Empowered Internship Programme offers a unique opportunity to learn within a world-class organisation like NBC while gaining hands-on experience across different aspects of the business. I am excited to contribute, learn from industry experts, and develop the confidence and capabilities needed to excel in my chosen career path.”

Through initiatives such as Youth Empowered, NBC continues to advance its sustainability agenda by creating pathways to economic opportunity, supporting youth development, and contributing to the growth of a skilled and resilient workforce for Nigeria.

The operatives of the Police Special Fraud Unit PSFU Ikoyi Lagos, has filed a criminal charge against a company, Greystone Partners Limited and its four directors before a Federal High Court, Lagos, over alleged conspiracy, Issuance of dud cheques, obtaining by false pretence, fraudulent business practices and N40 million fraud.

The four directors charged alongside the firm are: Mr. Suomobroto Ganguly, Olorogun Oghenetega Emerhor, Folabi Ayoola and Folabi Esan.

Greystone Partners Limited and its directors were charged before the court presided over by Justice Daniel Osiagor in a six count-charge charge marked FHC/L/1156c/2025.

The prosecutor, Barrister Achi Caleb, in the charge, alleged that the firm and its directors committed the alleged infractions on or before September 4, 2025.

The prosecutor also alleged that the defendants conspired with a company, Adlevo Capital Limited and other persons currently at large to commit the linked to a loan transaction with Simple Finance Company Limited.

For more, visit: https://themomentng.com/2026/05/21/greystone-partners-directors-enmeshed-in-%e2%82%a640m-dud-cheque-fraud-scandal/

A fresh legal battle has broken out at the Federal High Court in Lagos over the internal restructuring and merger of Honda Manufacturing (Nigeria) Limited and Honda Automobile Western Africa Limited (HAWA).

The court, presided over by Justice Akintayo Aluko, granted an ex parte order on May 12, 2026, sanctioning the restructuring. But the Executive Committee of the HAWA Autobate Union and the Local Management Team of HAWA have now filed a motion in Suit No. FHC/L/MISC/262/2026, through their counsel Obafemi Oluwole, Esq., asking the court to set aside that order.

The applicants allege that the merger approval was obtained through material misrepresentation, suppression of facts, and procedural irregularities, specifically, that HAWA failed to disclose ongoing disputes and stakeholder objections to the court before obtaining its sanction.

For more, visit: https://themomentng.com/2026/05/20/honda-workers-ask-court-to-block-merger-over-alleged-cover-up/

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, presided by Justice Christopher Oba, has ordered Globus Bank Limited to pay a total sum of N256 million to an Abuja-based company, Haril Global Solutions Ltd, for breaching a contractual agreement.

In the suit marked: FCT/HC/CV/1456/2026, Haril Global Solutions Ltd, Chinedu Mba, Idris Olayiwola and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, were listed as Defendants to the counterclaim filed by the bank.

The Claimant filed the suit by way of Writ of Summons, wherein it complained of breach of contractual agreement and wrongful deductions running into millions of naira by the bank.

Delivering judgement on the matter, Justice Oba declared that there was a valid and subsisting contract between the claimant and the Defendant, pursuant to the letter of offer of facility dated July 4, 2023, signed by both the claimant and the Defendant and the Overdraft Facility Agreement executed between the Claimant and the Defendant dated July 4, 2023.

For more, visit: https://themomentng.com/2026/05/20/legal-battle-globus-bank-to-pay-n256m-over-contract-violation/

Stallion Group under fire: CEO Vaswani and Singh linked to N2.06bn laundering scheme

​According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Stallion Group Chairman Sunil Vaswani, Harpreet Singh, and Olalere Tajudeen allegedly laundered ₦2.06 billion. The anti-graft agency claims the trio funneled the funds through various financial transactions in direct violation of Nigeria’s money laundering laws.

The anti-graft agency said the trio, acting through Stallion MG Automobiles Limited and another affiliated firm, Stallion Auto Keke Limited, carried out multiple high-value cash transactions without reporting them to the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML), as required by law.

According to the EFCC, the alleged offences occurred between November 2022 and February 2024 and involved structured deposits running into billions of naira.

One of the charges stated that between February 14 and November 29, 2023, Sunil Vaswani, Stallion MG Automobiles Limited, Harpreet Singh, and Olalere Tajudeen, failed to notify SCUML before lodging N655.35 million into an account with Providus Bank.

In another charge, Stallion Auto Keke Limited and Tajudeen were accused of similar infractions involving N1.405 billion between November 2020 and December 2021.

The commission said the transactions contravened provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2022, which requires the disclosure of large cash movements to regulatory authorities.

Meanwhile, efforts to arraign the defendants before the Federal High Court in Lagos were stalled due to their absence in court.

At the proceedings, EFCC counsel, Henry O. Anaso, told the court that attempts to secure their attendance had been unsuccessful, prompting an application for adjournment.

The presiding judge, Chukwujekwu Aneke, granted the request and adjourned the matter until July 21 for arraignment.

The case underscores ongoing concerns about compliance with anti-money laundering regulations and the challenges of prosecuting high-profile financial crimes in Nigeria.

Lagos Business company sues Godmade Homes Ltd, owner, Ayoolanrewaju Kuyebi over disputes on Ikoyi property


Justice (Dr.) Rosul Oriyomi Olukolu of Tapa High of Lagos State, has granted interim injunctions against Godmade Homes Limited and its alter-ego, Ayoolanrewaju Kuyebi, over a disputed property located at Osborne Ikoyi, Lagos.

Justice Olukolu granted the Interim injuctions against God made Homes Limited and Ayoolanrewaju, on March 4, 2026, while granting an Exparte motion filed and argued by AbdulHakeem Adio of counsel to the applicants, Two April's Limited in a suit marked LD/853CM/2026.

The motion according to the applicants' lawyer was brought pursuant to Order 43 Rules 1; Order 9 Rules 5 of the High Court of Lagos State Civil Procedure Rules 2019; Sections 10 13 and 18 (1) to (4) of the High Court Laws of Lagos State 2003, and under the court's Inherent jurisdiction as preserved by Section 6 (6)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (As Amended).

Granting the interim injunctions, Justice Olukolu held that: "Upon reading a 12-paragraph Affidavit and 29-paragraph affidavit of urgency filed at the High Court, Registry, Lagos on the 2nd March, 2026.

"And after hearing AbdulHakeem Adio of counsel to the Applicant moves the Motion Exparte dated and filed on 2 March, 2026. The application is anchored on the following ten grounds.....

"The orders granted by the Honourable Court are as follows, to wit: "an order of interim injunction is hereby granted restraining the 1st and 2nd Defendants, whether by themselves, their affiliates and or sister companies or entities, their directors, officers, servants, agents, assigns or privies and or however called in relation to the Defendants, from disturbing, interfering, disposing, transferring, selling, assigning or dealing with the 1st Claimant's property described as one (1) unit of 5-Bedroom Terrace Duplex with 1-Bedroom Boys' Quarters situate at Esplanade 6 (Former EGC5), Iroko Close, Osborne Foreshore II, Ikoyi, Lagos State (Unit 1 which is the first unit from the entrance), as contained in the offer letter dated 6th July, 2022,in fundamental breach of the terms of the Contract of Sale dated 4th November, 2022, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice filed alongside.

"An order is hereby granted granting leave to the Applicants with the assistance of the Sheriffs of this Honourable Court to take possession of, or alternatively mark the phrase, “subject of litigation" on the property described as one (1) unit of 5-Bedroom Terrace Duplexes with 1- Bedroom Boys' Quarters situate at Esplanade 6 (Former EGC5), Iroko Close, Osborne Foreshore II, Ikoyi, Lagos State (Unit 1 which is the first unit from the entrance)being the property allocated to the claimants/applicants as contained in the offer letter dated 6th July, 2022, in line with the terms of the Contract of Sale dated 4th November, 2022, pending the hearing and determination of this suit."

For more
https://themomentng.com/2026/03/05/lagos-business-company-sues-godmade-homes-ltd-owner-ayoolanrewaju-kuyebi-over-disputes-on-ikoyi-property/

Payaza’s Profit anchored entirely to Mastercard Gateway as ₦49bn trade liability looms over new CP bid

Payaza Africa Limited, a player in Nigeria’s fintech landscape, is tapping the debt markets for ₦50 billion via a Commercial Paper (CP) issuance, even as its latest financials reveal a heavy reliance on a single international revenue stream and a nearly tenfold surge in borrowing costs.

While the firm reported a stellar 162% jump in gross profit to ₦21.1 billion for the 2025 financial year, and net income up 68% to ₦12.2 billion, the results underscore a high-stakes pivot toward international collections and a balance sheet increasingly leveraged by debt, trade payables and director-linked liabilities.

The MPGS Concentration: A Currency Play?
Payaza’s top-line growth is almost entirely tethered to a single product: the Mastercard Payments Gateway Solution (MPGS).

The 98% Factor: MPGS accounted for 98.3% of the firm’s ₦28.78 billion total revenue in 2025.

FX Tailwinds: This revenue is derived from processing international transactions in US Dollars. When translated into a volatile Naira, the “functional currency” gains appear outsized, suggesting the firm’s growth is as much a factor of currency translation as it is transaction volume.

The Risk: Analysts warn that such extreme concentration leaves the firm vulnerable to changes in Mastercard’s fee structures or a sustained appreciation of the Naira, which could shrink the reported top line. Payaza reported an exchange loss of ₦1.7 billion in 2025 from appreciation in the US Dollar exchange rate from N1,549/$1 in January 2025 to N1,440 to US$1 in December 2025.

Balance Sheet Pressure: Payables and Director Loans
As Payaza seeks ₦50 billion from the public market, its existing liabilities are ballooning:

Trade Payables: Short-term obligations to vendors and partners jumped 435% to ₦49.67 billion, up from ₦9.27 billion in 2024. Trade payables primarily represent amounts owed to merchants for transactions processed through the Company’s
payment gateway.

Director Leverage: The firm remains indebted to its own leadership, with ₦2.5 billion currently owed to directors. While these loans are interest-free and unsecured, they remain “repayable on demand,” presenting a potential liquidity risk.

Borrowing Costs and the ₦32bn “PAC” Pivot
The most striking feature of the 2025 report is the explosive growth in finance charges and a massive, newly formed investment portfolio.

Interest Surge: Finance costs skyrocketed by 847% to ₦6.75 billion, reflecting the aggressive cost of capital in Nigeria’s current high-interest-rate environment (MPR at 26.5%).

Strategic Placement: Payaza reported a ₦31.9 billion “strategic investment” with PAC Capital. The firm described this as a short-term placement of surplus liquidity into “high-yield opportunities” within domestic commodity and financial markets—a ₦32bn jump from zero just a year prior.

MasterCard Payment Gateway Solution (MPGS) partners like Payaza typically earn fees through commissions based on transaction processing.

For merchant-facing fees on MasterCard transactions, industry examples show gateway fees usually range around 1.5% to 2.5% per transaction. Part of this fee is shared with payment gateway partners, acquirers, and banks.

Payment gateways sometimes pay partners a percentage of these fees or a set commission or margin based on transaction volume processed via the MasterCard gateway.

There is no clear breakdown about the types of international transactions Payaza claims it is processing through the MPGS.

Payaza is owned by four individuals – Seyi Ebenezer (70% stake), Philips Akinyele (15%), Tochukwu Ekwonna (10%), and Tolulope Atomori (5%).

The firm is a payment service provider with a merchant-enabling payment gateway which facilitates transactions for business through various payment methods, including card payments (debit or credit), bulk/single payment, USSD, QR codes, virtual accounts, and mobile money.

The 4-year old company faces intense competition in the fintech payments space from more established competitors such as Flutterwave, Paystack, Remita, Interswitch, and GTPay.

https://themomentng.com/2026/02/25/payazas-profit-anchored-entirely-to-mastercard-gateway-as-%e2%82%a649bn-trade-liability-looms-over-new-cp-bid/

An Akure, Ondo State division of National Industrial Court (NICN), has ordered United Bank for Africa (UBA) to pay ₦11.3 million to a former staff member, Adekọyeni Oladejo, over nearly two decades of unpaid salaries following what the court described as an indefinite suspension.

Justice K. D. Damulak, in a judgment delivered on February 18, 2026, in a suit numbered NICN/AK/25/2022, also held that the Adekọyeni Oladejo’s prolonged suspension without pay by UBA Plc amounted to a continuing injury and ultimately a constructive dismissal.

The claimant Oladejo through is lawyer, Omolegbon O. Odusola, had approached the court in July 2022, seeking ₦28 million as salary arrears from August 2006 to July 2022, ₦30 million as general damages, and continued payment of ₦145,000 monthly salary until judgment.

He told the court that he was serving as Branch Operations Manager at the Ode-Aye branch of the bank in Ondo State when he was directed to hand over his duties in August 2006 following allegations of discrepancies in Unity School’s account.

According to him, he was later arrested and prosecuted over the matter but was discharged and acquitted by the court. Despite this, he said he was neither recalled to duty nor formally dismissed. He denied resigning from the bank and maintained that he never received any terminal benefits.

UBA Plc int its Preliminary Objection filed by its lawyer, Dr. A. O. Ajana (SAN) leading two others, however, argued that Oladejo voluntarily resigned in 2006 and was paid salary in lieu of notice along with terminal benefits credited to his account.

UBA Plc also contending that the suit was statute-barred and constituted an abuse of court process because the claimant had previously instituted separate suits relating to false imprisonment and malicious prosecution.
In his ruling,

In deciding the matter, Justice Damulak dismissed UBA Plc’s preliminary objection, holding that a claim for unpaid salaries arising from indefinite suspension constitutes a continuing injury, which is not caught by limitation laws until the injury ceases.

The further held that the earlier suits were based on different causes of action and did not amount to abuse of court process.

On the substantive issues, Justice Damulak found that the bank failed to produce any resignation letter allegedly written by the claimant. Adding that the purported acceptance of resignation was found unreliable due to lack of identifiable signatories and proof of service.

The judge concluded that directing the claimant to hand over duties without reassignment amounted to indefinite suspension.

Owing to the above, Justice Damulak held that the employment relationship subsisted until the date of judgment and deemed it constructively terminated on February 18, 2026.

The judge therefore awarded ₦10,314,681.32 as salary arrears from October 2006 to January 2026, ₦1 million as costs against UBA Plc in favor of the claimant, and ordered that the payment be made within 30 days or interest at 10 percent per annum would apply.

Derick Brown Homes & Property directors dragged to Court over alleged forgery, false information 


The office of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has filed a criminal charge of forgery and false information against the dou of Igboegwu Derick Obiora and Engr. George Igboegwu, before a Federal High Court Lagos.

Obiora and Engineer George and their firm, Derick Brown Homes & Property Limited, were charged before the court presided over by Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa on an eight count-charge marked FHC/L/1024c/2025, filed by Barrister J. I. Kpandegh, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP).

In the charge, the prosecutor, CSP Kpandegh, stated that the defendants whose addresses were stated as 5, launder drive Manor Garden Estate Lagos; 1, Westron Close Lekki Phase 1 Lagos and Suite C124 Ikota Shopping Complex, VGC, Lekki, Lagos, respectively, committed the offences between 2021 and 2023.

All the defendants were alleged to have criminally conspired among themselves and forcible entry, forgery/making false documents and possession of forged document, which they used as genuine.

https://themomentng.com/2026/02/03/derick-brown-homes-property-directors-dragged-to-court-over-alleged-forgery-false-information/

A real estate developer, Adeyinka Lawal, has been arraigned by the operatives of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (ForceCID) Annex Alagbon-Ikoyi Lagos, before a Federal High Court, Lagos, on charges of conspiracy, obtaining by false pretence, money laundering, fraudulent conversation and fraud of N1.33 billion.

Adeyinka Lawal, who is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Beachway Homes Limited, was arraigned alongside this company on an amended charges marked FHC/L/392c/2025, before the court presided over by Justice Deinde Dipeolu.

The prosecutor, Barrister Samuel Ogala, told the court that the 60 years old defendant, his company Beachway Homes Limited and others at large, allegedly committed the crimes between 2020 and 2023, at at Elegushi, Lekki, Lagos State.

Specifically, the prosecutor informed the court that the defendant, Adeyinka Lawal, intent to defraud fraudulently obtained the sum of N1.33 billion from one Mr. Ifeanyi Nweke, under false pretense of using the said sum to build a 52-Unit Estate at ilesan-Elegushi, Lekki, Lagos.

The prosecutor also told the court that the defendant, upon receiving the said sum from his victim, converted same to his personal use.

He told the court that the alleged criminal acts of the defendant and his company, are contrary to sections 8 and 1(1)(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006. And and punishable under section 390(9) of the Criminal Code Act, LFN 2004. 

The prosecutor, also told the court the Adeyinka Lawal's acts contravened section 7(2)(b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other fraud Related Offences Act, 2006. And Section 20(b) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 No. 14. 

For more, visit: https://themomentng.com/2026/02/02/beachway-homes-boss-adeyinka-charged-to-court-over-alleged-n1-33bn-fraud/

The Government of Equatorial Guinea has restated it's commitment to continually support the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) in the organisation's drive for the promotion of a sustainable blue economy across Africa.

Evito Oma, the country's Minister of Transport, Telecommunications and Postal Services, who stated this on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 when he received Dr. Paul Adalikwu the Secretary General of MOWCA in Malabo,reaffirmed their commitment to MOWCA’s objectives and programmes.

Mr Oma who commended Dr Paul Adalikwu's visionary leadership of MOWCA, disclosed expressed support for enhanced technical collaboration between MOWCA and his Ministry for the benefit of his country. The minister also spoke on maritime trade facilitation within West and Central Africa.

Oma added that the country will sustain it's collaboration with MOWCA to advance maritime safety, security, and sustainable maritime transport across the West and Central African sub-region.

Speaking earlier, Dr Adalikwu described the Republic of Equatorial Guinea as a strategic country, naturally endowed to be a key player in the African maritime space.

He praised the government for it's robust performance in the oil and gas sector and commercial shipping through her key ports despite a few surmountable security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.

According to Dr Adalikwu, Equatorial Guinea remains a significant offshore hydrocarbon producer in Sub Saharan Africa whose participation in maritime trade is a significant contribution to Africa's blue economy activities and development. The MOWCA SG also praised the country for its assured increasing participation in the organisation's programmes and decision making processes.


While briefing Oma on MOWCA's activities and future programmes, Adalikwu told the minister that the country stands to benefit from the maritime human capital development programmes backed by other international bodies like the African Development Bank (AfDB), Governments of Singapore, Malaysia and more.

The MOWCA SG added that the country stands to be first line beneficiary from the Regional Maritime Development Bank for vessel financing and maritime infrastructure expansion, upgrade or development. Both parties ended the meeting with a strong commitment to strengthen cooperation between them.

Police Get Court Order To Declare Businesswoman Wanted Over Alleged N28.5m Fraud


The Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Ikoyi, Lagos, has secured an order of a Federal High Court, to declare a fleeing businesswoman, Uyime Akpan, wanted, over alleged N28.5 million fraud.

Justice Friday Ogazi, who presided over the court, granted the request of the Police Special Fraud Unit, Melverton, Ikoyi, Lagos, following a motion Exparte marked FHC/L/MISC/1410/2025, filed and moved by Barrister M. Y. Bello, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) in the Legal/Prosecution department of the Unit.

Listed as Uyime co-respondent in the suit are: Department of State Services (DSS); Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and NIGERIAN CUSTOM SERVICE (NCS).

PSFU through its lawyer had prayed the court for the following orders: "an order that the 1st respondent be declared wanted and placed on the wanted list of the Nigeria Police Special Fraud Unit, 13, Milverton Road Ikoyi, Lagos until he is arrested for Prosecution.

"An order permitting the Publication of the name of the 1st respondent in the National Daily Newspapers and social Media handles by the Nigeria Police Special Fraud Unit Ikoyi, Lagos for the purpose of fulfilling the requirement of the order 1 above. And for such further order or further orders as the honourable court may deem fit to make in the circumstances."

For more, visit: https://themomentng.com/2026/01/19/police-get-court-order-to-declare-businesswoman-uyime-akpan-wanted-over-alleged-n28-5m-fraud/

​N20.6bn for more cars? Lagos Lawmakers under fire for new fleet despite having 2 official vehicles each



A strange N20.6 billion allocated for cars for members of the Lagos State House of Assembly has found its way into the State's 2026 budget in what some lawmakers say they are not aware of. THEMOMENTNG reports.

Lawmakers who spoke to us said they are not aware and did not see the budget of the House before it was added to the State's general budget. Meanwhile, two top members of the Ministry of Budget told our correspondent that the executive only approved the House budget figure sent by the legislature.

"See, the executive arm is innocent here. Some media houses claim that it is Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu who plans to buy the cars for them but the Assembly has financial autonomy. They send their budget to us and it is added to the State's budget," the staff who pleaded to remain anonymous said.

Asked if the figure currently being reported by a section of the media is correct, the staff said he was not in a position to confirm or deny it.

Budget documents for 2026, according to AljazirahNigeria showed "an allocation of over N20.6 billion for vehicles for the 40 members of the Lagos State House of Assembly. This translates to approximately N516 million per legislator for vehicles alone."

The report quoted critics describing the figure as excessive, particularly against the backdrop of widespread economic hardship and rising living costs.

Some lawmakers have expressed concern over the development. "We already have official cars, one Toyota SUV and a backup Hilux. If true that there is a provision for cars again in the budget, then I don't know why we have the budget there. But I am not in the best position to speak on it. Maybe you should speak to the management of the House or the chairman of the committee on information," a lawmaker told this newspaper.

Another legislator told that the members of the House hardly see the breakdown of the budget for the Assembly. According to him, many of his colleagues only know of the budget figure during the process leading to its passage.

"Has any of my colleagues told you that they see the breakdown of the Assembly budget? If you see anyone who has the breakdown, that person is close to the top. So if you want a breakdown, go to the top," he said without giving details of what he meant by "the top".

Last year, Peoples Gazette reported that documents available to it showed that the Assembly disbursed N43.5 billion for what it called “back-up vehicles for honourable members.”

​In line with our commitment to fact-finding, we contacted the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, via his mobile line and WhatsApp for clarification. However, as of press time, he had yet to respond to our inquiry.

Mr Governor,
In a few days, my siblings will be homeless without a roof over their heads
My daughter will lose the inheritance I have willed to her and I will no longer be a landlord in Oworonshoki.

Except you come to our aid in Oworonshoki where forces beyond our control are on rampage, bulldozing houses with impunity, without explanation or hope of compensation.

This has been going on for months now. When it started the story was that it would be limited to a specific swathe of land filled with illegal shanties and that only properties without papers would be affected.

I bought the property in 2007.
I remember that morning. Mike, a young man who was renting my boys' quarters in Gbagada had told me there was a piece of land for sale in Oworo. I went to check it out. I didn't like it. I said no.

The street was flooded and the property I was being offered was submerged in water.

"Mr. Toni, buy it. It can become Waterfront GRA tomorrow," his father whom I would end up calling Baba Mike told me.

Convinced by the old man who had a salesman’s gift of the garb, I bought it. It was surveyed. The deed of assignment and transfer was done and we set to work but as soon as we began draining the property and started stacking up blocks, Lagos state government officials showed up.

So my builder went to get a permit and I have paid my land use charge every year on that property ever since in line with my undertaking in the deed to “pay all government levies inclusive of all charges that may be imposed hereafter and from time to time by the Lagos state government or any lawful authority.
This year’s land use charge notice was signed by Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, Honourable Commissioner of Finance. I have my bank payment code, payer ID and notice code.
For context: the land was bought originally on 31 December 1977 and I have my Plan Number issued by the Lagos State government.

Yet, I am about to lose that house because someone somewhere with power and fuelled with greed is land grabbing and planning to build an ocean front GRA. The promise I was sold 18 years ago is about to translate into pain and there seems to be nothing anyone of us landlords can do.

Mr. Governor, I debated and agonised whether to write this open letter but an early morning call from my distraught siblings drove me to action as I listened to the sound of marauding bulldozers in the next street.

Why did I hesitate? Because of the fear that crying out might incense those grabbing our lands and put my siblings in danger.

The truth dear, sir, is that Oworo is under siege. Area boys working in cahoots with the land grabbers prowl the streets like militiamen.

People are beaten silly for taking pictures and making videos of bulldozers at work?

Last week, I read your comments about your commitment to safeguarding the lives, property, investments and the future of Lagos at the 19th Annual Town Hall Meeting organised by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) with the theme “Building Trust, Enhancing Security: A New Era of Security and Partnerships” held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Mr. Governor this is an opportunity to put words to action. Please help stop the wanton, unjustified and indiscriminate destruction of houses in Oworonshoki.

Please help us find out why those who present papers showing ownership and proof that they pay land use charges are being ignored and their houses not spared. How can our houses be illegal if we have been paying land use charges to the state?

Mr. Governor, there is something emasculating and patently evil about watching someone destroy your property without the ability to make them stop.

They say only a sheep goes to the slaughter without reaction. The people whose faces are being ground into the dust rising from the rubbles of their own homes are not sheep. They are citizens of the state you govern, please help us.

The truth is some of us can afford to walk away from the rubbles after the bulldozers have done their evil deed but for many it is akin to a death sentence; losing houses they slaved to build and which they have called homes for many years.

Baba Mike died three years ago after a long battle with prostate cancer. He will be rolling in his grave at his family’s imminent homelessness.
Mr. Governor, the end of the year is here and as I wish you and your family Merry Christmas, I hope you will spare a thought for all those families in Oworonshoki whose Christmas and New Year will neither be merry nor happy if the bulldozers keep roaring.

With respect and high regard,

Toni Kan

International Migrants Day: Ezurike calls on Federal Government to approve 2025 Revised Migration Policy

As the world marks International Migrants Day, global citizenship and migration policy advocate Dr. Nduneche Ezurike has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to urgently approve the revised 2025 National Migration Policy, describing it as a critical instrument for economic growth, wealth creation, and global integration.
Aligning with this year’s theme, “My Great Story: Cultures and Development,” Ezurike noted that migration has historically supported development across regions. From Asia’s industrial rise to today’s global digital economy, countries that treated migration as circulation rather than loss successfully converted human mobility into productivity, innovation, and stronger multicultural societies.
He stressed that Nigeria and Africa already derive measurable economic benefits from global migration. In 2023, African migrants remitted over US$95 billion to the continent, with Nigeria accounting for approximately US$20–21 billion, making it Africa’s largest remittance recipient. In many cases, these inflows outperformed foreign direct investment, official development assistance, and other external capital sources in terms of consistency and direct household impact. Globally, remittances to low- and middle-income countries are projected to reach US$685 billion, funding education, healthcare, housing, and small enterprises, and delivering more inclusive, grassroots-driven development outcomes than FDI.
According to Ezurike, the revised National Migration Policy provides Nigeria with a timely framework to better harness these gains—through improved migration governance, skills recognition, digital migration pathways, diaspora investment, and reduced remittance costs. He acknowledged the role of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) in strengthening diaspora engagement and protection, noting that policy approval would further institutionalise these efforts.
Addressing Africa’s youth, Ezurike stressed that migration must be intentional, legal, and ethical driven by skills and enterprise, not desperation. When managed well, he noted, migration boosts wealth creation, strengthens multicultural exchange, and elevates Africa’s global standing. Drawing from history, he pointed to Asia’s development experience, where countries such as India, China, and South Korea treated migration as circulation rather than loss, using skills mobility, remittances, return migration, and diaspora networks to drive growth and global influence.
He further called on the African Union to improve Africa’s global migration outcomes by mainstreaming migration into development and industrialisation strategies, reducing remittance costs through fintech and regional payment systems, institutionalising diaspora engagement, building digital migration frameworks, and strengthening migration data systems for evidence-based policymaking.
Ezurike concluded that migration is no longer a future consideration but a present economic force, urging governments to act with urgency and clarity to maximise its development impact.

Grace Nation Founder Chris Okafor remarries amid public backlash from Nollywood Actress

​Despite the shadow of a public ultimatum from Nollywood actress Doris Ogala, Pastor Chris Okafor’s wedding held without a hitch today. An elite crowd of family and friends turned out in force, choosing to celebrate the union and effectively silencing the actress’s viral claims that the cleric “must marry” her instead.

The well-attended event, which took place in Lekki, Lagos, stood in sharp contrast to the online controversy that had dominated social media in recent weeks, following a series of viral videos and allegations made by the actress against the pastor.

https://themomentng.com/2025/12/16/grace-nation-founder-chris-okafor-remarries-amid-public-backlash-from-nollywood-actress/

The Singleton Single Malt Scotch Whisky hosted its exclusive ‘Singleton Escapes: Passport to Serenity’ event in Lagos on November 15, 2025.

This gathering captivated Nigeria’s most discerning tastemakers, offering a luxurious experience focused on intentional, slow living and reinforcing the brand’s core belief that true luxury is always worth the wait.

This exclusive gathering welcomed Nigeria’s discerning tastemakers and consumers who love the art of escapes and discovery.

The event delivered a profound experience focused on the concept of slow, intentional living, reinforcing the brand’s philosophy that true luxury is always worth the wait.

The event was carefully planned as a multi-stage journey, designed to help guests completely disconnect from the digital world and fully enjoy the present moment.

The experience began with a unique “Break-In” session. This opening guided attendees to leave the pressures of their daily routine behind before stepping into The Singleton’s tranquil and refined world.

This step served as a powerful reminder that achieving true serenity requires deliberate effort.

The event successfully helped guests disconnect from their screens and fully immerse themselves in genuine, meaningful connection.

Additionally, the focus on culinary excellence was evident in the pairing segment, where The Singleton 12, 15, and 18 Year Old were showcased alongside custom-tailored bites.

This solidified the whisky’s position as the ideal partner for elevated indulgence.
“The Singleton is fundamentally about creating moments that matter and celebrating the joy of intentional living and shared connections,” commented Ifeoma Agu – Group Head of Culture, Influencers & Advocacy, Diageo South, West & Central Africa.

“The success of ‘The Singleton Escapes’ series, exemplified by the ‘Passport to Serenity’ event, clearly validates our purpose: to offer Nigerians not just luxury, but meaningful, authentic experiences.

“This validates our shared values with our consumers: they are ready to hit pause and truly enjoy the richness of life, and we are thrilled to have provided that exquisite escape and demonstrate that meaningful connections are always within reach.”

The Singleton remains dedicated to inspiring Nigerians to embrace the art of savoring life’s beautiful moments, one day at a time.

To discover the brand’s essence, view exclusive content from ‘The Singleton Escapes: Passport to Serenity,’ and stay informed about future luxury activations, follow the official handle @the
singleton africa across all social media platforms.

The brand continuously shares updates on upcoming events and opportunities to savour the single moment.

Breach of Banking Ethics: OPay faces N100 million Lawsuit from Moniepoint, TeamApt

OPay, one of Nigeria’s leading fintech companies has been dragged into a high-stakes legal battle following a lawsuit filed by TeamApt Limited and Moniepoint Microfinance Bank Limited, accusing the firm of compromising confidential business information and engaging in unethical recruitment practices.

The case, filed as Suit No. FHC/L/332/2025 at the Federal High Court in Lagos, lists OPay and its affiliate, SOTI Investments Limited, as defendants.

For more, visit
https://themomentng.com/2025/12/12/breach-of-banking-ethics-opay-faces-n100-million-lawsuit-from-moniepoint-teamapt/

Ifeoma Ononye

​Fast-rising Nigerian fashion brand, Elegance Apparel, founded by designer Barakat Omolara Rasaki, has achieved a significant milestone.

The label received the prestigious Award of Excellence as Fashion Designer of the Year at the Ekiti Fashion Exhibition 9.0 on December 7th. The event, hosted by De Elegant Expertise Palais, was attended by key figures in the Nigeria fashion industry.

​The award is particularly noteworthy as it highlights the brand's continued success in Nigeria, even as its founder is now based in the United Kingdom. Barakat relocated to the UK to expand her creative experience and forge international relationships, but she has ensured her business remains active in Lagos and surrounding states through a dedicated local production team and ongoing client work.

​Industry observers view this latest recognition as a reflection of her steady influence across both Nigerian and international markets. Her designs are renowned for being rooted in African heritage, marked by neat finishing and clean structure. Clients consistently describe her style as bold and modern while maintaining deep respect for Nigerian culture.
​
​Following the ceremony, Barakat expressed her gratitude to the organisers and her Nigerian team. She noted that the award underscores the possibilities for designers who maintain strong ties to their roots while exploring new creative spaces. She also credited her foundational fashion training in Lagos and the unwavering support of clients throughout her career.

​While still designing bespoke pieces for her Nigerian clientele, Rasaki is actively introducing her work to a new UK audience. Her recent projects, including custom pieces featuring African fabrics and silhouettes, have been presented at small private showcases and creative events. This exposure has fostered collaborations with stylists and designers interested in African-inspired fashion.

​Fashion experts suggest that her expanding network in the UK is setting the stage for significant international opportunities, while her success at home reaffirms the brand’s deep connection to the community that shaped it.

​Looking ahead to 2026, Elegance Apparel plans to increase its presence at exhibitions in both Nigeria and the UK, aiming to fuse Nigerian design heritage with innovative ideas inspired by the UK's multicultural fashion scene.

​For Barakat Omolara Rasaki, this award is a powerful reminder of how far her vision has travelled, connecting two worlds through her artistry. Many in the industry believe this recognition is just the beginning of a much larger global journey.

Governor Hope Uzodimma has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening economic growth in Imo State as he commissioned the new Access Bank Plc Regional Office in Owerri.

Speaking at the commissioning, Governor Uzodimma emphasized the critical role strong financial institutions play in stimulating economic activity. He noted that this understanding informed his swift approval of the location allocated for the bank’s new regional headquarters.

The facility, named in honour of renowned economist and business icon Sir Pascal Gabriel Dozie, underscores the values he championed indigenous enterprise development and broad-based financial inclusion. The governor stated that every transaction carried out in the new regional office would contribute to measurable financial growth within the State.

Governor Uzodimma also commended Access Bank Plc for achieving this milestone. He paid special tribute to the late Managing Director, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, recalling his personal commitment to establishing this partnership with the Imo State Government. The governor expressed confidence that the collaboration will continue to yield mutual benefits for both the bank and the people of Imo State.

Earlier in her welcome address, Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank plc, Chizoma Okoli, who said that the bank growth story is one of vision, resilience and commitment to service, stressed that it is most fitting that the new regional office is being named in honour of a man whose life's work embodies these values.

Dr Pascal Gabriel Dozie 's contributions to Nigeria's financial landscape are both foundational and transformational. He laid pathways for modern banking, empowered generations of entrepreneurs, and helped shape an industry that supports national development. By naming this branch after him , we celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire excellence, innovation and service.

According to the Deputy Managing Director who appreciated greatly the support Governor Hope Uzodimma is given to private sector, noted that the governor's style of leadership has introduced policies that encourage enterprise development, strengthen financial inclusion and create opportunities for business to grow.

She disclosed that Uzodimma's focus on infrastructure, security and ease of doing business has given institutions like theirs the confidence to invest, innovate and provide services that benefit the people.

Okoli further hinted that Access Bank currently operates 17 branches across the state, each serving as a link between opportunity and the people who power Imo economy, adding that with the unveiling of the new regional office which has made it 18 in the state capital, the expansion is a clear demonstration of their commitment to serve the people and businesses of Imo State with greater depth,reach and responsiveness.

She sounded it loud and clear that the new regional office has been strategically designed to enhance the banking experience for individuals, SMEs, corporates and public sector institutions across Imo and neighbouring states even as she said that their goal is simply to bring world- class financial services closer to their customers and to serve them better than ever before.

PHOTO CAPTION
L–R: Chiekezi Dozie, Director, Kunoch, Senator Hope Uzodinma, Executive Governor, Imo State; Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank; and Uzoma Dozie, CEO, Sparkle, during the unveiling of the Access bank Regional Office and (PGD) Pascal Gabriel Dozie’s Signage in Owerri recently

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a congestion-free port environment by highlighting the significant milestones achieved through the E-Call Up System for trucks. This system continues to drive efficiency across the nation’s port corridors.

This assurance was given by the Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho in an address delivered at the Nigeria Maritime Journalists Retreat organised by the Maritime Correspondents’ Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON).

The event, themed “Maximising Emerging Technologies for Sustainable Import and Export Trade,” was held on Thursday, 4 December 2025, at De Marii Hotel, Lekki Free Zone.

Dr. Dantsoho described the E-Call Up System popularly known as ETO as a critical digital reform that has restored order, transparency and efficiency to port access roads, particularly in the Apapa and Tin Can Island corridors.

The MD, who was represented by the Traffic Manager, Lagos Port Complex, Jimoh Anthony, noted that prior to the deployment of the system, the port corridors were characterised by indiscriminate truck movements, prolonged gridlock and excessive truck dwell times, conditions which severely undermined trade facilitation, port efficiency and overall economic productivity.

“Today, the E-Call Up System has evolved into a transformative digital logistics tool that enables structured truck inflow, improves coordination across the logistics chain and aligns Nigerian port operations with global best practices,” the Managing Director stated.

According to the NPA boss, one of the earliest and most fundamental achievements of the system was the migration from manual call-up procedures to a fully centralised digital truck scheduling platform. He explained that this transition eliminated manual queues, drastically reduced human interference and ensured that only trucks with authenticated reservations accessed the port environment, thereby restoring predictability and order to port operations.

Another notable milestone identified was the establishment and integration of transit parks and pre-gate facilities, managed by Messrs. Truck Transit Parks (TTP). These facilities, he said, serve as regulated holding bays where trucks undergo pre-inspection and proper sequencing before entering the ports, significantly reducing roadside congestion while strengthening regulatory oversight.

Dr. Dantsoho also pointed to the measurable reduction in road congestion along the Apapa and Tin Can corridors as a clear indicator of the system’s impact. He said that in collaboration with security agencies, terminal operators and other stakeholders, the E-Call Up System has improved traffic flow, shortened truck turnaround time and drastically reduced indiscriminate roadside parking.

“The persistent gridlock that once defined the port corridors has been significantly curtailed, and we will never allow it to resurface,” he emphasised.

The NPA Managing Director further noted that continuous stakeholder engagement has played a key role in the success of the system. Through regular consultations with transport unions, terminal operators, freight forwarders and relevant regulatory agencies, the Authority has continually reviewed and optimised the ETO platform to sustain discipline and improve adaptability.

Speaking on recent developments, Dr. Dantsoho disclosed that the NPA recently undertook a comprehensive review of the E-Call Up framework to address emerging loopholes and strengthen system integrity.

One of the outcomes of the review, he said, was the redesign and security enhancement of ETO tickets. Under the new framework, ETO tickets are now directly tied to the Terminal Delivery Order (TDO) and Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP), ensuring end-to-end traceability and eliminating fraudulent duplication or resale of tickets.

“This improvement directly addresses vulnerabilities that were previously exploited by bad actors and significantly enhances transparency across the cargo evacuation process,” he said.

Another major advancement highlighted was the full integration of terminal gate barriers with the ETO platform. With this integration, terminal barriers open only after electronically verifying a valid ETO ticket, preventing unauthorised entry, criss-crossing of trucks and diversion to terminals for which trucks are not scheduled.

This innovation, according to the NPA, has strengthened sequencing, reduced human interference and reinforced operational discipline across the entire port value chain.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Dantsoho stressed that the E-Call Up System has progressed from being an emergency intervention to a robust digital logistics management framework delivering tangible gains in efficiency, safety and orderliness along the nation’s ports corridors.

He assured stakeholders that under the current leadership, the NPA remains resolute in deepening these reforms, consolidating the progress already achieved and ensuring that Nigeria’s ports never return to the era of chronic congestion.

“Our goal is clear: to support Nigeria’s long-term trade facilitation objectives and strengthen the country’s global competitiveness,” the Managing Director affirmed.

The MARCON retreat brought together maritime journalists, industry stakeholders and regulators to examine how emerging technologies can be leveraged to promote sustainable import and export trade in Nigeria.

10 new centers to be commissioned by H1 2026 as part of a broader program targeting 23 diagnostic facilities across Nigeria


The Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), through its wholly owned healthcare subsidiary NSIA Advanced Medical Services Ltd (MedServe), in collaboration with GE HealthCare, has announced a major initiative to improve access to diagnostic services across Nigeria.

As part of the first phase of its healthcare expansion program, MedServe will establish 10 new diagnostic centers strategically located across key regions in the country as part of their mission to provide advanced healthcare for every Nigerian. These centers are scheduled for commissioning in the first half of 2026, marking a significant step towards improving early detection, timely intervention, and overall patient outcomes.

To enable this rollout, NSIA/MedServe will enter into a 10-year strategic agreement with GE HealthCare through which diagnostic equipment like CT scanner, mammography, digital x-ray and ultrasound systems, long-term service support, and training programs to build local capacity will be delivered.

Dr Tolu Adewole (MD/CEO-MedServe): “This agreement represents a pivotal milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare journey. By combining world-class technology with local expertise, we are strengthening the national healthcare system and expanding access to reliable diagnostic services for millions of Nigerians. These centers will support timely testing, early detection of diseases, and improved health outcomes across the country.”

Dr George Uduku General Manager, GE HealthCare West Africa: “Access to advanced diagnostic services remains a top priority for the country. Through this collaboration with MedServe, we are helping to close that gap by bringing imaging technology closer to communities. Our goal is to enable earlier diagnosis, improve treatment decisions, and strengthen local capacity through training and long-term support—so more Nigerians can receive the care they need, when they need it."

“We are proud to collaborate with MedServe in this transformative effort. By combining advanced technology with training and service support, we aim to strengthen the healthcare system and ensure more communities benefit from high-quality diagnostic care”.

This initiative is expected to significantly reduce travel time for essential medical tests, minimize diagnostic delays, and enhance early medical intervention. By expanding access to diagnostics services and building local capacity, the programme will contribute to improved public health and strengthen Nigeria’s overall healthcare infrastructure.


PHOTO CAPTION - L-R: Kamal Lamido, Principal Manager, MedServe; Jean Philippe Bousquel, VP & GM Imaging International, GEHC; Peter Koyess, GM Service Sales International, GEHC; Mohamed Haroun, GM Africa, GEHC; Dr. Tolulope Adewole, MD & CEO MedServe; Kostas Deligiannis, President EAGM, GEHC; Prof. Mojisola Atalabi, Professor of Radiology at UCH Ibadan; Dr. Ibraheem Elmogy, GM Science & Technology International, GEHC; Prof. Steffen Sammet, Professor of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Chicago; and Dr. Christina Sammet, MD Rush University Medical Center, at the launch of a collaborative healthcare expansion program to improve access to diagnostic services across Nigeria.

EFCC probes Philip Ugbodaga over alleged N43m furniture contract, recruitment scam


Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has grilled the pioneer Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Benin, Dr. Philip Ugbodaga, for alleged furniture scam to the tune of N43 million awarded to a company based in Abuja.

Ugbodaga, who was appointed last year, was invited for investigation, according to a letter by Head, Investigation, Benin office of EFCC, ACE 1 Ibeleman Bristol.

A copy of the letter, said the investigation was made pursuant to section 38 (1) & (2) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establish) ACT, 2004.

The letter, dated October 31, 2025, was titled, Investigation Activities, and addressed to the medical director.

EFCC, in the letter, also asked Ugbodaga to furnish the commission with information/document on the list of nominal rolls and payroll of all the staff in the agency, including permanent, temporary, contract and casual staff.

Others were the status of the contracts/projects carried out from 2023 to date, status of the contracts/projects either completed or ongoing, the companies, the contractors the projects were awarded to and the amount paid to each company for the contracts/projects to include account details.

The anti-corruption agency beamed the searchlight on Ugbodaga on the heels of a petition by aggrieved workers following the failure of the hospitals management to resume payment of their suspended salaries.

The aggrieved workers accused Ugbodaga, who promised to deliver on the mandate set before him by the federal government, of running the National Orthopaedic Hospital like a private entity without recourse to the Public Service Rules.

It was alleged that before Ugbodaga received directive from the Federal Ministry of Health in July 2025 to recruit some staff, he had already commenced the recruitment exercise in December 2024.

However, trouble ensued in the hospital in August 2025, when he unilaterally and abruptly stopped the payment of salaries of 20 staff without notice or query, for undisclosed reasons.

Aside none payment of salaries of the affected staff, EFCC was also investigation the appointment of the MDs Personal Assistant, Adedeji Bode Segun, said to be holding two federal government jobs running concurrently.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, one of the aggrieved staff fumed that workers of the hospital sat on bare floor, mats, wrappers and on patients beds, to perform their duties while others made use of inherited furniture.

The Art of the Exceptional Blend: Johnnie Walker Blue Label Toasts Lanre Da Silva Ajayi’s 20th Anniversary with Bespoke Tribute


Johnnie Walker Blue Label, the world’s most iconic luxury Scotch, served as the Exclusive Spirit Partner for Lanre Da Silva Ajayi’s (LDA) grand 20th Anniversary celebration, successfully marking the convergence of two master crafts: rare whisky and timeless African couture.

The high-profile event, held on Sunday, November 16th, in Lagos, drew Nigeria's elite, CEOs, and fashion tastemakers to celebrate LDA's two decades of defining elegance. The partnership positioned Johnnie Walker Blue Label not merely as a sponsor, but as the quintessential icon of celebration, recognizing LDA as a fellow master in her field.

The evening's centerpiece was the exclusive Johnnie Walker Blue Label VIP Experience, where guests were welcomed with signature serves, reinforcing the brand's status. The celebration culminated in a highly anticipated runway moment where Johnnie Walker Blue Label presented the designer with a bespoke, personalized, and engraved bottle of Blue Label—a rare tribute to her two decades of monumental achievement.

Speaking to the synergy of the partnership,  Joan Odafe-Ejumedia, Marketing Manager, Reserve Scotch Diageo South, West & Central Africa stated stated: "Johnnie Walker Blue Label’s existence is built on the celebration of rare achievement—from the pursuit of the one in ten thousand casks that defines our exceptional blend, to the monumental milestones achieved by true visionaries. We view this 20th Anniversary as the perfect convergence of two master artisans. We are profoundly honored to partner with Lanre Da Silva Ajayi, a designer whose two decades of defining African couture mirror our own commitment to rarity, precision, and the creation of timeless legacies. When the world recognizes a mastery of this magnitude, there is no more fitting spirit than Johnnie Walker Blue Label to mark the occasion."

Following the presentation, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi (LDA) expressed her appreciation for the collaboration: "Fashion has always been about crafting enduring memories and celebrating milestones. I am deeply honored to have had Johnnie Walker Blue Label, the true icon of celebration, be an integral part of such a significant anniversary for my brand. This partnership speaks to a shared dedication to uncompromising quality and excellence."

The event successfully cemented Johnnie Walker Blue Label’s association with Nigerian luxury, demonstrating that the spirit is the essential accompaniment to toast the most significant and rare achievements across the continent.