₦airaland Forum

INDIGENE, a distinguished collective of professionals, academics, and community leaders of thought spanning the six Ìkòròdú Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), today, 11 th May 2026, announced its unequivocal support for the re-election bid of the Honourable Jimi Benson to the Federal House of Representatives.



This decision, reached after extensive deliberations, underscores the urgent developmental imperatives facing the constituency. Ìkòròdú is experiencing unprecedented demographic expansion, with its population estimated at 1.248 million in 2026, reflecting a robust annual growth rate exceeding 4%. This rapid urbanisation has exacerbated existing deficiencies in critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and basic social amenities. Sustained and strategic governmental intervention is therefore paramount to align Ìkòròdú’s development trajectory with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).



“The current political temperature of Lagos dictates that this is not the time for Ìkòròdú to experiment with its hope for rapid development,” stated the INDIGENE. “Our collective interest, encapsulated in the ‘Ìkòròdú First’ project, must transcend individual ambitions and partisan considerations.”



INDIGENE acknowledges the democratic rights of all citizens to participate in the electoral process but firmly places the collective welfare of Ìkòròdú above all else. The body commends other aspirants for their commitment to public service and earnestly appeals to them, in the spirit of unity and love for the zone, to rally behind Mr Benson’s continued representation. As a ranking lawmaker, Mr Benson possesses enhanced influence, holds key committee leadership positions, and enjoys preferential access to resources, all of which are crucial for delivering substantial dividends to the constituency.



Honourable Jimi Benson’s legislative prowess is well-documented. He has sponsored an impressive 58 bills, with five pivotal pieces of legislation already signed into law by the Presidency. These include: The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (Amendment) Act, which repositions DICON into a self-sustaining Military Industrial Complex, fostering job creation and enhancing Nigeria’s defence production capabilities. The Electricity (Amendment) Act, 2023, mandating Power Generating Companies (GENCOs) to allocate 5% of their operating expenditure to host community development. The Constitutional Amendment Act on Railways, moving railways from the Exclusive to the Concurrent Legislative List, thereby empowering both federal and state governments to invest in railway infrastructure.



These legislative achievements directly address the infrastructural and developmental gaps identified by INDIGENE. Jimi Benson’s strategic positioning as a high-ranking legislator is instrumental in attracting targeted development projects to Ìkòròdú. For instance, his facilitation of 29 classroom buildings across various schools in Ikorodu significantly contributes to addressing educational infrastructure deficits. Furthermore, his commitment to improving transportation infrastructure is evident in projects such as the flagging off of new road constructions.



INDIGENE implores the Ìkòròdú political elites, traditional rulers, and leaders of thought to actively engage in the “Ìkòròdú First” project. This collective involvement is essential to ensure the judicious distribution of productive talents within the political landscape, thereby safeguarding the constituency’s developmental aspirations. The body also urges Mr Benson to continue working hand-in-glove with the Senator representing Lagos East to maximise the democratic dividends for Ìkòròdú.



Signed:

Adeleke Aroyewun, Esq.,

Co-Convener and Secretary

At exactly 7:10 am on the 103rd day of 2026, Dr Lola Kosoko, a 46-year-old soil scientist with 18 years at a Lagos State public university and over 38 peer-reviewed publications, arrived at the Oshodi BRT terminal. The absence of BRT buses was less daunting than the crowd, which kept swelling. Waiting endlessly for buses that never arrived wasn’t an option if she was to make her 8:00 am lecture. Meanwhile, Uber or inDrive was simply out of reach. So, she hopped into a danfo- Lagos’s yellow-painted, black-striped ‘moving menace’. Around 7:42 am, just after crossing the Mile 12 overhead bridge, the bus was stopped by the Lagos State task force for driving in the BRT lane. Predictably, this was a familiar nightmare to Dr Kosoko. She has learnt to navigate the methods of Lagos maladies. She works hard to shape future leaders at the expense of reasonable comfort; this is the portrait of a typical Lagos State lecturer. Her salary, after the recent ‘salary harmonisation’ that paradoxically impacted her earnings, barely covers her transport, food, accommodation, and internet access for research. Several times, she received job offers from different universities outside Nigeria, with better pay, smaller classes, less work, and research grants. She is passionate about serving her country, but no longer enthusiastic about her current job. Dr Lola Kosoko is not just a statistic- she’s Lagos, quietly quitting. And Lagos, it seems, cannot afford to lose her.

For over 16 years, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) have been at loggerheads over the welfare of Nigerian university teachers and the provision of necessary infrastructure for the training of employable youths. Successive governments have played ping-pong with the demands until a new agreement was reached on 23rd December 2025, and the document was signed on 14th January 2026. Key provisions of the agreement include a 40% salary increase, Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA), Earned Academic Allowances (EAA), improved pension, university autonomy, and others. Notably, however, while federal universities are already benefiting from the new agreement, state universities seem to be operating on discordant terms.

To imagine Lagos State as Nigeria's economic capital, with an internally generated revenue of over ₦1.26 trillion in 2024 according to the National Bureau of Statistics, a Federation Accounts Allocation Committee allocation of ₦55.83 billion as at January 2026, and a contribution estimated at 22%–30% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product, yet not being among the first to implement the newly signed agreement in its public universities calls for concern. The academic staff of Lagos State University (LASU), Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), and Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) are unlikely to exceed 3,000- an indication that the implementation of the new agreement may not have any significant effect on the state’s coffers. Meanwhile, the realities of Lagos, such as the high cost of living, transportation, housing, erratic power supply, and other excruciating factors, make the government’s silence more painful for lecturers. The Lagos State is financially buoyant and structurally capable of paying its lecturers above others in Nigeria, but the political will is lacking. The human cost of delay in the implementation of the ASUU renegotiated agreement for Lagos State public universities is significant and deeply concerning. In academia, quiet quitting is more dangerous than brain drain. While brain drain refers to the exodus of experienced academics to private universities, foreign institutions, or other professions, quiet quitting, more insidious in nature, promotes minimal effort at work, zero dedication, disgruntled individuals, the absence of passion and innovation, tactical withdrawal, and disengagement rather than exit. The effects of quiet quitting on students, service delivery, research output, university rankings, and the future of the country cannot be quantified. It is instructive to note that a quick and total implementation of the new agreement could alleviate the hardship of the staff who were affected by the ‘salary harmonisation’, and rekindle the morale of others. Nothing mirrors the hurtful hearts of the people society calls “professors” like their financial insecurity, which is why most of them retreat to quiet quitting while still in active service.

Dear Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, this is another opportunity for you to lead with compassion. The new pact is meant to be reviewed in three years; more than three months have passed, and the ministry of tertiary education has not done anything despite the submission of the financial implications by the three chapters of ASUU in Lagos State-owned universities. Your action on this matter at this critical period is not merely an obligation, but a legacy. Lagos has always been ahead of others in every developmental stride; this should not be an exception. This is another chance to redefine a generation of Lagos academics and students. This is the governor’s moment on a critical issue affecting Lagos’ human capital development. Mr Governor, as usual, lead by example, as other state governors are watching. It should be noted that the cost of not acting swiftly will surely lead to accumulating arrears that may become politically and financially harder to clear.
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What Are We Asking? Immediate domestication of the renegotiated ASUU agreement for Lagos State-owned universities, payment of the four months' arrears (January-April 2026) without further delay, establishment of a triennial review framework in line with the federal model, and regular structured dialogue between the Lagos State Government and ASUU state chapters. Mr Governor, sir, you may wish to know that there are hundreds of Dr Kosokos in Lagos-owned universities. Their pay and working conditions have reduced them to ‘plug-and-play’ instructors. They care less if the system works, because their passions have taken a walk, not because they don’t love their jobs, but because they cannot be expected to live to work. Mr Governor, there is a strong belief in your leadership; you represent both pride and possibility. Great cities are built by educated people. A Lagos that invests in its university lecturers invests in its own future. We are passionate about our jobs, we love our students, we are proud of Lagos State- and a stitch in time saves nine.

Steven Anu’ Adesemoye, PhD, a narrative and development communicator, writes from Lagos

As the world commemorates World Food Day 2025, the CEO and Team Lead of MedRoyal Food Hub, Princess Akran Medeyonmi Dada, has urged Nigeria to go beyond the conventional quest for food security and begin to build a sustainable and integrated food sovereignty system. Speaking in Lagos, Princess Akran stressed that the nation’s agricultural potential can only be truly harnessed when Nigerians collectively decide how they want their food to be produced, processed, and consumed.


According to her, “Food sovereignty is not merely about having enough to eat; it is about owning our food systems. From the soil that nurtures our crops to the cultural identity expressed in our meals. Considering the agricultural dynamics of our great country, Nigerians deserve more than the abundance of food. We must define and defend how exactly we want our food from the farm to the table.”


The 2025 World Food Day theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” aligns with MedRoyal Food Hub’s long-standing commitment to promoting local agricultural value chains and traditional food systems that empower communities. Princess Akran noted that achieving this year’s goal requires political willingness and policy coherence across all levels of government to support smallholder farmers, local processors, and food entrepreneurs.


“Government at all levels must show genuine political will in harnessing our vast agricultural opportunities,” she said. “We cannot continue to rely on food importation when our local produce can feed the nation and sustain future generations. The time has come for us to prioritise homegrown policies that make farming profitable, food accessible, and nutrition culturally relevant.”


Expanding on the benefits of food sovereignty, Princess Akran explained that it promotes self-reliance, local economic development, and environmental sustainability. She added that when communities control their food systems, they preserve indigenous knowledge, encourage biodiversity, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with imported foods. “It’s also a matter of dignity and identity,” she said, “because what we eat tells the story of who we are and how we value our land and people.”


As part of MedRoyal’s advocacy, the CEO made a passionate case for “ẹwà agoin”, the traditional beans delicacy that remains a staple in many Nigerian households. “Ẹwà agoin is not just food; it is a heritage of resilience and nourishment,” she remarked. “It is high in protein, fibre, and essential minerals, yet deeply rooted in our culinary history. We need to make deliberate efforts to feature such meals more prominently in our daily menus, school feeding programmes, and public health campaigns.”


Princess Akran Medeyonmi Dada reaffirmed MedRoyal Food Hub’s commitment to working “hand in hand” with local farmers, food producers, and nutrition advocates to promote healthier and culturally grounded food systems. She called on Nigerians to take collective responsibility in shaping a food future that is inclusive, equitable, and proudly indigenous.


“When we achieve food sovereignty,” she concluded, “we do not only secure our plates, we secure our future.”


For Media Enquiries:
MedRoyal Food Hub Corporate Communications

08128278892

YourGFsnatcher:
When they are soliciting for donations come and ask again whether it's our business. Robots

How much have you ever donated to Koinonia? 😂

The Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) hosted a send-off ceremony on Thursday, 18th September 2025, in honour of 59 retired members of staff. The event, held at the university podium, recognised employees who concluded their services meritoriously between 2022 and 2025.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olumuyiwa Odusanya, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Abiodun Denloye, described the ceremony as a necessary act of institutional gratitude. He noted that “retirement should never be viewed as an end but as a transition into continued service to humanity,” urging honourees to remain active through mentorship and community engagement.

Professor Odusanya, through his representative, also emphasised the importance of institutional memory, pointing out that “the history of LASUSTECH and the legacy institution, LASPOTECH, is incomplete without the selfless work of those we are celebrating today.” He added that the university owed its stability and growth to the sacrifices of staff who worked through periods of transition.

The Vice-Chancellor further remarked that the occasion underscored LASUSTECH’s culture of respect and sacrifice. “By celebrating our retirees, we reinforce the values of service, integrity, and loyalty which continue to shape this university,” he said. He concluded his message with prayers for the honourees’ health, peace and long life, quoting Ecclesiastes 3:1: “To everything there is a season.”

Mrs Morenike Makinde, representing the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC), centred her remarks on retirement benefits and outlined opportunities for post-service fulfilment. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its retired workforce.

The highlight of the ceremony was the formal presentation of certificates of meritorious service, acknowledging the decades of dedication by the retirees. This moment, according to organisers, symbolised not just closure but also recognition of the individual and collective impact on the university’s development.

In his closing remarks, Registrar Mr David Ogungbe commended the honourees for their loyalty and contribution to academic excellence. He emphasised that their service had left a foundation upon which LASUSTECH must continue to build.

In his response, a honouree, retired Chief Lecturer and member of the Governing Council of the legacy institution, Mr Olasunkanmi Longe, commended the leadership of the university for the kind gesture. “I wish to place on record my profound appreciation to the Management of this esteemed University for the singular honour of organising a most befitting retirement ceremony for us. This unprecedented gesture, being the first of its kind in the history of the Institution, has not only dignified our exit but has also set a noble precedent and enduring legacy for future occasions.”

For the institution, the ceremony was not merely a farewell but a reaffirmation of gratitude and legacy, demonstrating LASUSTECH’s enduring pride in those who have helped shape its progress. The honourees include 36 academic and 23 non-academic staff members.

Lanre Kuye
Director, Information & Public Relations
LASUSTECH

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), LASUSTECH Chapter, held a press conference at the Ikorodu campus of Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), reaffirming its resolute commitment to rescuing Nigeria’s public university system from collapse. Led by Comrade Yisa Oluwatoyin Anthonio, the chapter’s chairperson, the union underscored that its struggle transcends salary disputes, focusing instead on securing the future of higher education as a cornerstone of national development.



Comrade Anthonio articulated that ASUU’s prolonged battle, spanning over a decade, stems from the Federal Government’s failure to implement the 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement. This pivotal accord addresses critical issues, including fair remuneration, adequate funding for research and infrastructure, and the preservation of university autonomy and academic freedom. “Our fight is not merely for personal gain but for the survival of a system that shapes Nigeria’s intellectual and developmental future,” Anthonio declared.



The press conference shed light on the dire consequences of government neglect, with public universities grappling with dilapidated facilities, a scarcity of research resources, and a relentless brain drain. These challenges, Anthonio noted, demoralise lecturers and erode the quality of education, jeopardling a crisis that threatens Nigeria’s global competitiveness. “Without urgent intervention, our universities risk becoming relics in a knowledge-driven world,” he warned.

ASUU LASUSTECH Chapter emphasised that a robust university system is indispensable for fostering innovation, critical thinking, and leadership. The union views universities as crucibles for addressing societal challenges and nurturing human capital essential for sustainable progress. Anthonio passionately argued, “A nation that neglects its universities forsakes its potential for growth and prosperity. We are fighting to ensure Nigeria does not stagnate.”



The union reiterated its call for the full implementation of outstanding agreements, including various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Memoranda of Action (MoAs). These documents, repeatedly sidelined by successive administrations, are critical to restoring dignity to the academic profession and repositioning universities as engines of transformation. The chapter pledged unwavering solidarity with ASUU’s national body, ready to pursue dialogue, engagement, or industrial action if necessary.


Comrade Anthonio appealed to stakeholders, including students, parents, and the public, to support ASUU’s cause, framing it as a collective struggle for Nigeria’s future. “This is a moral imperative to secure quality education and a thriving nation,” he stated.


The LASUSTECH Chapter remains steadfast in its advocacy, vowing to continue the fight until the government honours its commitments. With Nigeria’s public universities at a critical juncture, ASUU’s resolve underscores the urgency of revitalising an education system on the brink, ensuring it remains a beacon of hope and progress for generations to come.

In a landmark step toward boosting digital innovation and learning in tertiary institutions, HUAWEI Nigeria has officially donated a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Laboratory to the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH).

The commissioning, which took place at the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Building on the university’s main campus, attracted dignitaries from government, academia, and the technology sector.

The Vice Chancellor of LASUSTECH, Professor Olumuyiwa Odusanya, expressed immense gratitude during his address, describing the occasion as “a day of joy” and a major milestone in the institution’s journey toward technological excellence.

“This innovation laboratory being commissioned today is a testament to our town and gown initiative as outlined in our IMPACT strategy,” the Vice Chancellor stated. “We are especially thankful to HUAWEI Nigeria for this significant investment in our future. We owe a debt of gratitude and do not take this contribution lightly.”

Professor Odusanya acknowledged that the donation was made possible by the far-reaching impact of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s trip to China, crediting it as the starting point of the collaboration. He also commended the role of the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, led by Honourable Commissioner Olatunbosun Alake, in making the project a reality.

The Vice Chancellor further appealed to HUAWEI to deepen its collaboration with the university by considering the establishment of a Data Centre and other technological projects. He also encouraged students to take advantage of funding and research support from the Lagos State Science Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC), of which he serves as Chairman.

Mr. Andrew Chen, General Manager of HUAWEI Nigeria, expressed his delight at being part of the initiative, stating that the donation is part of the company’s broader mission to equip Nigerian students with essential ICT skills. “We are proud to partner with LASUSTECH. Our hope is that, with the skills acquired in this lab, many students will be employable not just locally, but internationally—even by HUAWEI,” he said.

In his remarks, Honourable Commissioner Olatunbosun Alake highlighted the importance of embracing innovation and technology in today’s world. “Nothing good comes easy,” he told students. “But this lab is a game-changer. Make use of it, develop programs, and take ownership of your learning. You won’t be in the university forever.”

Alake emphasized that the laboratory is not just for the benefit of LASUSTECH but represents a significant contribution to the advancement of Lagos State as a whole. He commissioned the lab with a call for continued excellence, innovation, and responsible usage by the students and staff.

He was accompanied by Engineer Mrs. Ibilola Kasumu, Permanent Secretary, and other senior officials of the ministry.

The newly commissioned lab is expected to serve as a hub for research, software development, and practical ICT training, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.

Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) has secured accreditation for all 25 academic programmes it presented to the National Universities Commission (NUC) during the October/November 2024 Accreditation Exercise. The results, released in a letter addressed to the Vice Chancellor with reference number NUC/ES/412/VOL.14/387 and signed by Engr. Abraham Chundusu, the acting Director of Accreditation, shows impressive outcomes: 22 full accreditations (88.0%) and three interim accreditations (12.0%).

The results showcase meticulous planning, resource allocation, and academic rigour under the Vice Chancellor's leadership. The NUC's rigorous evaluation, which assesses staffing, infrastructure, and academic quality, showcased LASUSTECH's excellence across multiple colleges. Notably, no programme was denied accreditation, a rare achievement for a university still in its formative years.

The College of Applied Social Sciences (CASS), also classified as Administration, led the charge, with all six programmes—Accounting, Business Administration, Marketing, Actuarial Science, Banking and Finance, and Office and Information Management—securing full accreditation. Scores ranged from 86.9% to an outstanding 95.6%, reflecting robust academic standards and faculty expertise.

In the College of Agriculture, programmes such as Animal Science, Crop Science, Agricultural Extension, Fisheries, and Horticulture achieved scores exceeding 80%, securing full accreditation. Agricultural Economics and Farm Management, however, received interim status with an overall score of 80.9%, influenced by a staffing score of 68.6%.

The College of Basic Sciences achieved outstanding results, with Physics with Electronics, Mathematics, Microbiology, and Statistics all scoring above 90%. Physics and Mathematics led the rankings with scores of 96.6% each. Although Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry reported scores exceeding 80%, they were assigned interim status due to staffing challenges.

The Colleges of Environmental Sciences and Social Sciences/Administration shone brightly, with all programmes earning full accreditation. Standouts included Mass Communication (92.7%), Industrial Design (95.6%), and Economics, which led the university with an exceptional 97.4%.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Olumuyiwa Odusanya, on behalf of Management, expresses profound gratitude to all LASUSTECH staff and the Visitor. "As Vice-Chancellor, I remain deeply grateful to all members of staff and students. We dedicate this outstanding achievement to our visitor, Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. We are deeply thankful to the Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr Tolani Sule, and the Governing Council led by Professor Rasheed Kola Ojikutu. We have 14 programmes this year, and we cannot perform lower than this standard."


PROGRAMME BREAKDOWN

S/N
COLLEGE/FACULTY
STATUS
ADMINISTRATION
1
Accounting
Full Accreditation
2
Actuarial Science
Full Accreditation
3
Banking and Finance
Full Accreditation
4
Business Administration
Full Accreditation
5
Marketing
Full Accreditation
6
Office and Information Management
Full Accreditation



ARCHITECTURE
7
Architecture
Full Accreditation



AGRICULTURE
8
Agricultural Economics and Farm Management
Interim Accreditation
9
Agricultural Extension and Rural Development
Full Accreditation
10
Animal Science
Full Accreditation
11
Crop Science
Full Accreditation
12
Horticulture and Landscape Management
Full Accreditation
13
Fisheries and Aquaculture
Full Accreditation



COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA
14
Mass Communication
Full Accreditation



COMPUTING
15
Computer Science
Full Accreditation



ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
16
Industrial Design
Full Accreditation



SCIENCE
17
Botany
Full Accreditation
18
Chemistry
Interim Accreditation
19
Industrial Chemistry
Interim Accreditation
20
Physics with Electronics
Full Accreditation
21
Mathematics
Full Accreditation
22
Microbiology
Full Accreditation
23
Statistics
Full Accreditation
24
Zoology
Full Accreditation



SOCIAL SCIENCE
25
Economics
Full Accreditation


Signed
Lanre Kuye
Director, Information and Public Relations

An experienced education development expert, Dr Saheed Oladapo Ibikunle has urged the Nigerian youths to play a pivotal role and lead the charge for nation-building.

Ibikunle stated this in an address titled "the Role of Nigerian Youth in Nation Building”, delivered at the Ikorodu West Youth and Award Night, last Friday, where he underscored the critical juncture in Nigeria's history which necessitates collective efforts to address dimensional challenges.

He emphasized the need for active youth involvement in nation building and harped on the ideas and innovations crucial for the nation's growth which are predominantly within the youth demographic.

The seasoned educationist identified key areas the youth can take advantage in driving and awakening the potentials that abound in the country. Importantly, he recognized; Education and skill Development, Entrepreneurship and job creation, Technology and Innovation among others.

"Everyone, regardless of your academic or professional accomplishments, you have to embrace a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and creativity, he affirmed”.

Furthermore, he calls for collaboration between the public and private sector in order to drive entrepreneurship spirit.

"There should be a collaboration between government, the private sector, and civil society to create an enabling environment for startups, advocating for mentorship, access to funding, and business development support".

A contractual dispute has erupted in the film industry as award-winning Art Director, Tunji Afolayan, alleges that KAP Productions Limited has breached their agreement in the release of the movie "Ijogbon." The dispute has prompted legal action from Mr. Afolayan, with the law firm Osifowora and Co Legal Practitioners representing his interests.

The controversy centers around a contract that was entered into on January 11th, 2023, between Tunji Afolayan and KAP Productions Limited. The terms of the agreement were meticulously defined, outlining Mr. Afolayan's role as an Art Director and the associated payment details. However, despite the clarity of the agreement, Mr. Afolayan claims that he was never provided with a copy of the contract.

Trouble began when "Ijogbon" was released on Netflix. To his dismay, Tunji Afolayan's name and his crucial role in the movie were noticeably absent from the credits. Instead, Kunle Afolayan was mistakenly attributed as the Art Director, while Mr. Tunji Afolayan's role was erroneously listed as "Set Designer."

In light of these apparent discrepancies, Mr. Tunji Afolayan contends that KAP Productions Limited has violated the terms of their contractual agreement. To address this alleged breach, Osifowora and Co Legal Practitioners, on behalf of Mr. Afolayan, have taken legal action to seek a fair and just resolution. Potential remedies could involve credit corrections, compensation, and other actions deemed appropriate under the law.

Mr. Tunji Afolayan, a respected figure within the film industry and an AMVCA winner, emphasizes the importance of upholding contractual agreements and ensuring that justice is served. He is committed to a lawful and equitable resolution of the matter.

The situation is ongoing, and all involved parties are encouraged to cooperate and engage in an open and transparent process to resolve the contractual dispute in a fair and satisfactory manner. The outcome of this case may set a precedent for the film industry's adherence to contractual obligations and the equitable treatment of its professionals.

For her academic excellence and doggedness, a Transportation and Safety expert based in the United States of America has rewarded Miss Aminat Yusuf with the sum of Five Hundred Thousand (N500,000) as the overall outstanding graduating student of Lagos State University(LASU).

The Nigerian-born philanthropist states, "My humble background fires my passion for lifting indigent and outstanding youths in their different endeavours. This is my unique way of telling God I am grateful and didn't forget where I started. I am giving back to individuals who can turn around things and others".

In a statement released on the university's official Twitter handle @LASUofficial, Aminat Yusuf, a graduating student in the Faculty of Law, was announced as the overall best student for the 2021/2022 academic year with a CGPA of 5.00, a feat said to be the first in the last 40 years of the state university.

Ayodeji's original gesture to Miss Aminat Yusuf was a full scholarship to the Nigerian Law School. But unknowingly, another good Nigerian was said to have taken up the law school needs as an endowment, hence, the need to monetize the reward. However, the initial N500,000 is the tip of the iceberg as more rewarding gestures have been put in place to support the dreams and aspirations of the LASU 26th convocation awardee.

"I am not a politician or holding any political office. I am only passionate about my country and its youths. I also want to give back the little I have to encourage others in the diaspora to emulate the same effort. With sincerity of purpose and dedication, little support like this will encourage other students to be focused and help nurture good talents," He said.

The Ekiti born said his humble intervention for the indigent and outstanding youths would not be a flash in the pan, as he is set to consolidate his efforts with the launch of "Project 50" in primary schools across the 774 local governments of Nigeria.

"Project 50" is a unique intervention targeted at public primary schools and pupils across Nigerian local governments. The pet project would provide school bags, notebooks, and other needed educational materials for the selected pupils.

Steven Anu' Adesemoye
Principal Partner

Ayodeji Arojo, Chief Operating Officer- Madison Metro Transit System, Wisconsin, United States of America

Encouraging creative and innovative thinking of Nigeria's indigent youths can be a great way to help them develop the skills they need to succeed in life. We plan to have a weekly review and select suitably qualified youth(s). This is our plan to encourage the youth. Sometimes the assistance may be collaborative, but success would be the top priority.

The followings are the outlined steps:

1. Provide access to education: Education is the foundation of innovation and creativity. Access to quality education can help indigent youths develop their skills and knowledge, leading to innovative and emerging ideas.

2. Offer mentorship and guidance: Mentors can encourage creativity and innovation among indigent youths. They can provide guidance, support, and advice to help young people develop the needed skill-set and achieve their goals.

3. Create opportunities for experimentation: Indigent youths may not have access to the resources and tools necessary to experiment with new ideas. Access to technology, equipment, laboratories, workshops and materials can help them explore new ideas and develop their creativity.

4. Encourage collaboration and co-creation: Collaboration and co-creation can help to foster creativity and innovation by bringing together youths with different perspectives and ideas. We shall encourage indigent youths to collaborate and co-create on projects and initiatives. And also provide opportunities to network and connect with others in their field.

5. Celebrate success: Celebrating indigent youths' successes can help encourage creativity and innovation. We shall recognize and reward their achievements and provide opportunities for them to showcase their work and share their ideas with the world.

By providing access to education, mentorship, resources, opportunities, encouraging collaboration and celebrating success, we can help foster creativity and innovation among indigent youths- giving hope and abundant life to the disadvantaged.

If you know you are suitably qualified for this intervention, please email;
creativeyouthsnigeria@yahoo.com
creativeyouthsnigeria@gmail.com

Mr Ayodeji Arojo
Public Transportation Professional

-1983 Registered Declaration still subsisting, intact.



The king Kosoko royal family/ Oloja of Lagos chieftaincy family has declared that there is no crisis within the family and that the ascension to stool of Oloja of Lagos is a settled matter.



Kosoko family also stated that the 1983 Registered Declaration guiding the selection of occupant of the Oloja stool is still subsisting and intact.



These were contained in separate statements signed by Alhaja (Chief) Mutiat Ashabi Abimbola Alli - Balogun, Head of the Kosoko Royal family and Prince Sikiru Kosoko, the General Secretary on Friday.



They debunked insinuations contained in an online report that the Lagos State Government is making moves at resolving the crisis surrounding the Oloja of Lagos stool, a first class chieftaincy title in the class of Akarigbere chiefs of Lagos.



The General Secretary of the family, Sikiru Kosoko, who denounced the report, which was based on a purported statement online, declared that only the Olori Ebi, Alhaja Mutiat Ashabi Ali-Balogun or her assigned members of the family has the right to issue statements or engage in official correspondence on behalf of the family.



According to the statement, the purported statement and reports are filled with falsehood and misinformation, adding that contrary to the misinformation in the report, the family, through the Olori Ebi of the entire family and those of the various branches, an Omo Oye, (Oloja of Lagos elect), has been chosen and ratified in the person of Prince Abiola Olojo Kosoko”.





“The attention of the king Kosoko Royal Family of Lagos/ Oloja of Lagos Chieftaincy Family has been drawn to a publication purportedly coming from the family which is not true.



“For the avoidance of doubt, the king Kosoko Royal Family/ Oloja of Lagos chieftaincy family has a strict line of official communication, which is through the Olori Ebi of the family, Alhaja Mutiat Ashabi Ali-Balogun or her assigned member of the family.



“It is also important to note that the Kosoko Royal Family already has an Omo Oye {Oloja of Lagos elect} in the person of Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, whose selection has been ratified by the Olori Ebi of the family and the kingmakers from all other ruling houses in accordance with the 1983 Oloja of Lagos Chieftaincy Declaration”, the family said.



The family scribe further added that the Oloja of Lagos Chieftaincy Declaration of 1983 upon which Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko was selected and ratified, is the authentic law guiding the Oloja of Lagos stool, as it is at the moment the only recognized law.



According to the family, the year 2000 Government View, an offshoot of a tribunal headed by retired Justice Akin Holloway, is merely an observation and still ‘in view’, which is yet to be promulgated into law, thus, without any effect or force of law. The guiding principles still remained in the existing 1983 Declaration”.



“Contrary to the reports making the round, we declare that the 1983 Declaration remains sacrosanct as the year 2000 Government View referred to in the report is a mere view and not law”, the statement said.



“It is also important to note that the cases at the High Court and Court of Appeal referred to in the highly misinforming report were not our cases but issues of the chieftaincy family merely mentioned.



“We are by this statement, informing the general public that there is no crisis in the Kosoko Royal Family of Lagos regarding the filling of the vacant Oloja of Ereko stool as all that is necessary have been done to fill the stool and that those agitating against the choice of the family are mere trouble makers bent of dragging the good and eminent name of the family in the mud.”



Also denouncing a press statement allegedly in circulation calling for the ratification of the Registered Declaration of the family, the Kosoko Royal Family said:





“This is also to call the attention of the authorities and the general public to a letter circulating in the name of the Kosoko Royal Family/Oloja of Lagos Chieftaincy Family calling for ratification of the valid registered declaration, a move contrary to the position of the general family and without the consent of the head of the family.



“The judgment of the High and Appeal Courts being referred to in the said press releases does not in any simple language be mentioned or talk about the registered declaration of 1983.



“The judgement of the Appeal Court directed the litigant to go back to the High Court by setting aside the High Court judgment against the litigant.



“The judges in their judgment did not at any point make mention of the declaration because that was not the substance taken to the High Court and as such the Appeal Court cannot give what you did not seek for.



“It is also on record that there is only one registered declaration regulating the process of ascending the stool of the Oloja of Lagos and there are no court cases of any sort against it till date”, the family stated.



While stating that the litigant voluntarily withdrew from the matter, Kosoko family also affirmed that the entire family unanimously approved Alhaja (Chief) Mutiat Ashabi Abimbola Alli-Balogun as the head ( Olori Ebi ) of the family.



The family also added that based on the 1983 Declaration, the family also conducted the selection of the new Oloja of Lagos and concluded it with Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko as the Oloja – elect.



“The litigant in October 2014 on his own made an official statement not to continue the legal process in the court of law and the report of inquiry”, the family said in the statement.



“The family has an approved and unanimously accepted Alhaja (Chief) Mutiat Ashabi Abimbola Alli-Balogun as the head ( Olori Ebi ) of the family who is saddled with the responsibility to manage the affairs of the family until there is an Oloja of Lagos in place.



“The issue of the Omo oye (Oloja of Lagos Elect) has since been concluded by the king makers, who had rectified the Omo oye presented by the next ruling house (Akinsanya Olojo) as expressed in the only registered declaration dated 1983 in person of Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko from the Akinsanya Olojo Ruling House being declared as the Omo Oye Elect for the stool of the Oloja of Lagos.



"The Olori Ebi, Alhaja Alli-Balogun and the General Secretary of the King Kosoko Royal Family/Oloja of Lagos chieftaincy family, is using this medium to inform the general public and the Lagos State Government of the illegality being put together by some unknown persons to create unrest within the King Kosoko Royal/the Oloja of Lagos Chieftaincy Family and to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere presently enjoyed within the Ereko, Idumota and Balogun area of Lagos Island", Kosoko family warned.

On August 26 and 27, 2022, Alafarika for Studies and Consultancy organized its first virtual symposium titled "Knowledge Creation and Dissemination in Africa", in which researchers in African affairs from Morocco, Nigeria, Mali, Mauritania, Egypt, and the Central African Republic participated. The participants commended this initiative for giving great importance to knowledge, its creation and dissemination, and considering it an initial and basic building block for developing and progressing in Africa.

The two-day session dealt with issues related to influencing African policy and politics with knowledge, the process of knowledge management for development; the role of the media in creating knowledge societies; and the challenges facing academic publishing and potential solutions. It also touched on the relationship between philosophy and human development in the African context and how revolutions and movements demanding change can be directed based on the knowledge that provides answers to the state-building and development that the continent needs in the twenty-first century and the digital age, in addition to the potential of investigative and data journalism to contribute to Africa's prosperity.

With regard to creating knowledge societies and influencing African politics, the speakers revealed that consultancy institutions are one of the means of influencing knowledge creation processes if these institutions are rooted in local issues and are experts in initiatives that touch the needs of the population and citizens. The speakers stressed that civilizations and advanced societies throughout history have depended on knowledge and actors in disseminating human sciences. Despite the lack of interest of some current African governments in knowledge, its means and tools for its dissemination, the history of Africa, its civilizations and kingdoms in different regions confirmed that Africa has rich experience in this regard. What is required today is to study these historical achievements and support the creativity of young people that may limit the brain drain in many African countries, in addition to attaching the utmost importance to educational institutions and their outputs.

Knowledge management is a necessary process for development because it relates to many sensitive areas and is an essential means of successful management. Knowledge management elevates knowledge to the forefront of any government or political system's success by emphasizing the knowledge capabilities of individuals, universities, and research institutions that facilitate access to knowledge, participation in it, distribution, preservation, and retrieval.

The impact of globalization and the rapid technological change in human societies make knowledge the basis of domination and influence. All indicators show that the strength of tomorrow's world will be determined by the interest in human capital and the exploitation of the energies and capabilities of the continent's population in sustainable human development. In terms of knowledge management and development, there is a need to move from theories to real-life applications to meet the challenges of the continent and the rapid transformations in all fields without neglecting data technologies, which collect and categorize information to enable users of knowledge systems and services to access them when necessary. All of this can be achieved through interviews and dialogues with experts and actors in national development policies, humanities, and modern methods that reflect positively on African societies and enable African countries to compete globally.

There are great tasks on the shoulders of African media institutions due to their relationship with the processes of creating knowledge societies at a time when global media ignore the role of Africans in crystallizing global knowledge and the information explosion. Today, digital media plays some of the roles of traditional media, influencing different African societies and stages. However, the role of the media should not be limited to the use of various means to highlight developments and experiences in African countries, their civilizations and history or to publicize their tourism sectors. The relationship between the media and the dissemination of knowledge is a relationship of mutual influence that can be observed in concepts related to human values, the crucible of communication and understanding. The information revolution and technological innovations the continent's youth seize today in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Egypt, and other African countries to develop the financial, agricultural, and health sectors.

The process of scientific research and academic publishing is one of the means of developing and changing society. It is also one of the tools through which sustainable development can be achieved. Thus, creating and influencing knowledge societies requires addressing the challenges facing academic publishing in Africa and the weak governmental attention to the results of research projects and recommendations of conferences and research sessions that may contribute to promoting development.

A noticeable lack of publishing and distribution centres for works, academic books, and scientific journals within Africa is one indicator of the crisis in academic publishing in Africa. At the same time, education curricula and teaching methods in several African countries are rooted in the colonial era and ideas that strengthen Western scientific institutions while weakening African scientific institutions that are already short of the necessary infrastructural resources.

Speakers in the "Knowledge Creation and Dissemination in Africa" symposium also pointed out that African philosophy can help us understand the problems facing the creation of knowledge and enhance the patterns of knowledge production that the continent needs. Furthermore, studying African history and philosophy may determine the African position towards modern science and contemporary issues, especially since knowledge based on African philosophical foundations may transform African societies into freer societies and can provide answers to the most important factors contributing to political, social, and economic inequality.

The COVID-19 crisis has shown the repercussions of the lack of independent and effective scientific research, sufficient scientific and technological resources, and the lack of manufacturing capabilities in the global south in general and Africa in particular. As a result, most African health care systems relied on the so-called "goodwill" of the global north and foreign vaccines.

The recent protests and political transformations in Africa indicated that most movements calling for change were not based on knowledge foundations that meet the state-building processes Africa needs in the twenty-first century. This is despite the fact that between 2005 and 2014, 40 out of 54 countries on the African continent witnessed widespread protests and uprisings in their various forms at the local and national levels. The knowledge equation lies in the repeated mistakes of these movements and that some of these uprisings often exacerbate the situation in the countries where they occur. Knowledge gaps can also be seen in the ideologies and parties that refuse to bring about the continent's desired social and political changes.

In conclusion, the participants praised the role of investigative and data journalism in promoting African prosperity based on knowledge, as data and statistical information should contribute to achieving good governance and revealing corporate and institutional corruption and social injustice, in addition to presenting powerful and influential stories and revealing the truth. Thus, data is a mirror to confirm or deny a particular phenomenon or issue and a means of exploring its direction and foreseeing its future trend.

Hakeem Alade PhD

Stakeholders have continued to oppose what they describe as arbitrary increment in the fees for this year’s West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations (WASSCE) by candidates being organized by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

It was gathered from some private school owners and parents that WAEC’s decision to increase the examination fees was not communicated to schools and parents in good time.

And while many schools and parents were still struggling to pay the new fees, the examination body announced the closure of registration and subsequently imposed N5, 000 as penalty for late registration.

Against school proprietor’s claim that WAEC had set March 28 deadline for the 2022 WASCCE, a letter signed by Dr Adunola Osoba, the Deputy Registrar/Zonal Coordinator, WAEC, dated March 23, school proprietors were told that the registration, which closed midnight March 20, would be reopened on March 21 and closed April 3, with N5000 as penalty for late registration for each candidate.

“However, late registration with a penalty of five thousand naira (N5000) only per candidate commenced on Monday, 21st March, 2022, and will run till midnight of Sunday, 3rd April, 2022", the letter read.

“Those who have purchased pins but failed to upload will also be required to pay the penalty fee”, the letter added.

It was gathered the Lagos State Chapter of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), had formally appeal to WAEC to drop the penalty charges, stating that the registrations exercise was slowed down because most parents and schools were not prepared for the increment in fees.

Many of the parents said that their children and wards may end up not writing the examinations this year because they found it difficult raising the examination fees and the N5,000 penalty slammed on each student whose school for late registration.

By Steven Anu Adesemoye

The world over, academic excellence is typically an offshoot of endogenous and enduring culture that has immunity against compromise, but mutation to classic global best practices. This has always been the benchmark that many universities are struggling to catch up with, while many others have considered this rare feat as a sprint and not a marathon.

The outcome of personal research has shown that, designing an evolving and adaptable academic culture requires critical thinking that is capable of espousing need-oriented courses and robust curricula, 360-degree touchpoint digital automation, technology-driven teaching and learning, versatile and creative administration, qualitative manpower, dynamic policy formulation, collaboration and networking, strict internal and external regulations, adequate and purposive funding, branding and Public Relations for Marketing (PRM) and ultimately the mindset of excellence by all stakeholders.

Now that the transmutation of the Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH) to Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) has been consummated, the next phase of the process should be to take the advantage of starting afresh into laying the foundation of a specialized university that would become the pride of Lagos and Africa at large. It is possible and in our time too.

Considering the peculiarity of the university, starting with the existing programmes of the former polytechnic to keep peoples jobs wont be a bad idea. Looking at the bigger picture, this university will need to do a Skill Gap Assessment what are the industrys first line needs? Skillsets versus current and emerging need sets. The Knowledge Gap Deficiencies (KGD) must give way to a systemic approach in the Productive Science and Technology (PS&T) model that is not only unique but 100% result-oriented. There must also be an environmental scanning of the immediate community to determine the relevant courses and programmes that are community needed. These two needs assessments would help the university to define and develop its core competencies from the beginning. The fourth industrial revolution (industry 4.0) as the current and developing environment for disruptive technologies and trends such as the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI), among others, must be considered. For the community and Lagos as a whole, the university should consider programmes like Ferry Fabrication and Services Technology (Marine Technology); AgriTech and Post-Harvest Processing Technology; Digital Transformation Technology; Integrated Waste Management and Recycling Technology; Alternative/ Renewable Energy Production Technology; Oil and Gas Supports Technology. This is the era of nanotechnology, we can do it.

Automating the whole system, including the management of the new university is key. From admission to graduation, the process must be seamless. One digital solution should connect payments, registration, result processing, administration, information dissemination, library services, etc. No loopholes must be allowed. In this new university, there should not be missing scripts or results. Result, certificate, and transcripts should be ready in less than 72 hours upon request, yes, it is possible. 24/7 internet facilities and handshake with big tech firms would go a long way to position the institution.

Teaching and learning must have a technology interface. This is not a conventional university of marker and board, 70 percent of the learning process must be demonstrated if we must do anything differently. Up to the Ph.D. level (it is the new direction), attention must be given to hands-on practical demonstrations. Only modern and digital laboratories, studios, workshops, and classrooms can deliver the desired results as seen in a well-educated cultured society.

The drivers of LASUSTECH must be able to think like there is no box anywhere. Creativity and ingenuity should guide the administration of the new university. There must be an enduring line of ideation and curation. The principal officers must be fired for excellent development in all forms. In the same vein, if the government is really genuine in setting a standard for this university, the members of the Governing Council must be a mix of blue-chip captains, boardroom technocrats, industry experts, technophiles, philanthropists, and education enthusiasts. This very council should not be made a retirement plan for tired hands. And the university must not be made a dumping ground for the unqualified job-seeking family, friends, and associates. Relying on school fees to undergo a substantial development is no more in vogue, therefore, the business arm of the university must wake up to its responsibility to drive development, while maintenance culture must be entrenched in the core value of the institution.

Skilling, reskilling, upskilling, research, and development are very essential in defining qualitative manpower for the university. Emotional Intelligence (EI) and the excellent mindset of a goal-getter are equally of great importance. Knowledge of what to teach and the skill to teach right would be more appreciated if the lecturers put students at the centre of teaching. Other staff must have a total reorientation to understand that students are customers and kings in their right. To achieve excellence, there must be a systemic adoption of excellent culture across the board.

In making policy, the drivers of the new university may have to borrow some quality templates from the best universities. Policies like the Graduate on Time (GOT) system that guides against lecturer frustrating a student with extra year(s) or unserious student overstaying the period of graduation would be a welcome development. Students accessing lecturers performance and completing progress reports per semester before they (students) can access results is going to improve standards. Digitally monitored compulsory 75 percent attendance and regular use of customized mail/digital wallet would encourage seriousness and dedication. Policies should be made flexible and people-oriented. The Directorate of Students Affairs (DSA) should have a policy document that takes care of the students welfare, sporting activities, complaints, and graduation.


This is the era of collaboration, co-creation, and networking. LASUSTECH needs to stretch the hands of fellowship to partner universities (home & abroad) for students and staff exchange programmes. The university must also be ready to have a strong tie with the industry, foreign embassies, politicians, government at all levels to attract research grants, chairs, endowments, bursary, and donations.


Aside the statutory National University Commission (NUC) accreditation exercise, the internal and external assessment should be carried out regularly and diligently. The Annual Performance Evaluation (APER) must be holistic and watertight. As part of the culture that must be established from now, only journal articles on Scopus Journal Metrics or indexed journals should be allowed. Inventions, Innovations, creations, and ideations should also be considered for promotion. The OSAE visit should go beyond inspection; it should include government accreditation with well-crafted Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).


There should be the immediate design of a brand strategy that must take care of the rebranding, repositioning, and internal /external communication architecture- brand manual. The ergonomics design of the campus must be fascinating. We are in the woke era, issues should not be allowed to snowball into a crisis. Response time to students distress must be swift and effective. Internal communication is as important as external communication, therefore, there must be a structured conflict resolution mechanism, community and government relations.


Lastly, the government must be ready to fund every aspect of the university or give it complete autonomy. It will be easier to partner with firms like Google, Microsoft, among others, to enhance the smooth operation of the university. Apart from the overhead cost, recurrent expenditure, and cost of accreditation, Lagos State Education Trust Fund should aggressively look into infrastructural development, capacity building, research and development, software acquisitions for all Lagos state-owned universities, such as Turnitin, Nvivo, IBM SPSS, ATLAS.ti, RStudio, Orange, Base SAS, OriginPro, TIMI Suite, etc.


As the summary of my piece, I wish to leave stakeholders of the new university with the Times Higher Education for university rankings which, calibrated 13 performance indicators into five areas: Teaching (the learning environment); Research (volume, income, and reputation); Citations (research influence); International outlook (staff, students and research); and Industry income (knowledge transfer).



Steven Anu Adesemoye is a researcher in the Department Of Media and Communications, University of Malaysia.

DISCLAIMER: JOINT PRESS STATEMENT

It is with great dismay that the king kosoko Royal family and the Oloja of Lagos Chieftaincy Family wishes to be detached from the 19th of January 2022 Lagos Island unrest titled "Idumota Vs Kosoko".

It is of importance to state here that the king kosoko royal family is not an organisation but a reputable Royal / Chieftaincy family in Lagos State and three other west Africa countries. And as such does not have anything to do with the 19th of January 2022 Lagos Island unrest orchestrated by some street gangs for selfish reasons,which we believe the Nigerian Police force are still investigating.

We hereby wish to disassociate ourselves from the unrest and we shall appreciate that the general public desist from the claim that kosoko is in anyway part of the unrest.

Signed :

Palace of the Oloja of Lagos : Prince Abiola Olojo-kosoko
Oloja of Lagos (Elect)

King kosoko Royal Family: Alh Mutiat Ashabi Alli-Balogun
Head of Family.

A Senior lecturer at Lagos State Polytechnic, Steven Anu' Adesemoye has advocated for the propagation of Yoruba culture and language through the film industry and aid competition with other indigenous industries across the world.

Speaking at the Dallas International Yoruba Movies Awards official presentation held on April 25 at Ambiance Cafe in Ikeja, Adesemoye bemoaned the backstage role which the culture is subjected to by the film Industry.


He said, “The Yoruba film industry should not see its language of expression as a barrier to greater height. Instead, they should improve on their skill set in filmmaking to project the language and compete with other indigenous films across the globe”

He stated that the film industry has a cogent role to play in the preservation of Yoruba culture as it transcends geographical limitations. As a result, the language must be used appropriately to protect the originality of the culture.

In his words, “The only hope for the Yoruba nation in preserving the language is Yoruba film both home and abroad. People now learn how to speak Yoruba language through what they see in films across the globe.”

“Therefore, the industry players must pay more attention to the effective use of the language. Proverbs, idioms, anecdotes, etc must be constructed and disseminated. If we must protect and project Yoruba culture, the language must first be protected. Language is the key that opens the tradition and culture”, he added.

He frowned against the misconceptions in the usage of the culture. He further advocated for self-promotion of the cultural heritage. He encouraged collaboration and film tourism as tools which can help boost the industry’s impact in promotion of cultural value across the world.

“Gone are the days when foreigners are allowed to tell our stories to their satisfaction. Yoruba filmmakers must rise to the occasion by telling their stories the way they want the world to see them. Èsù is not Satan. Ifá is not an idol. A Pastor is not better than Babalawo. Let there be distinctive demarcations between Onisegun, Adaunse and Babalawo.”

“The world must see our real stories the exact way they should be seen. Thank God for technology that is helping the proliferation of Yoruba films across the globe. It is a 'soft war' as Femi Odugbemi rightly put it and we must take advantage of that to tell our stories and promote the citizen cinema”, he said.

“Collaboration is highly needed to achieve greater feats. All the sectional cliques and caucuses should be dismantled to give way to a formidable front that is capable of putting The Yoruba films on Netflix and award-winning Oscars. That's the type of industry we are expecting and it is achievable in our time. Indians, Chinese, Korea, South Africa, etc have done it in their local languages, Yoruba films can do better.”

“Premium must be placed for Film Tourism. And amongst everything that is sellable to the outside world in the area of tourism, the only and surest commodity is our culture. We can export our culture easily through films. We can attract massive Tourists and earnings to our tradition and culture”.

“You can not sell seas and hills to foreigners because most of them have the same in abundance. But they don't have Egungun, Eyo, Igunnuko, Ifa, Sango, Bata dance, Gangan, Kerikeri, Bata, Agidigbo, Ewi, etc. Yoruba films must start having a redirection to infuse our cultural values and heritage on their Central Dramatic Problems (CDP). That's the new black oil.”

It must be recalled that the DIYMA Awards was previously held virtually on March 6 at Dallas by the popular sitcom couple, Mr. & Mrs. Kogberegbe to recognise the contribution of over 18 screen icons across different categories in the industry.

The unsavoury incidents being sponsored by some unscrupulous state actors involving the former Governor of Imo State, Sen. Rochas Okorocha in recent times show a hint at some parties' thought who see him as a threat to their supposed caliphate. Indeed, it has proven right the Elders’ words which postulate that ‘uneasy lies the head that wears the crown’.
However, the Sage's head still feels uneasy despite leaving office.

Does that still mean Okorocha wears the crown, holds the ace or the nitwits are scared of losing their hegemony to who God has chosen to make Imo prosper again?

This unwarranted battle began after the current Administration was sworn in on 15th January, 2020. It was a public knowledge that the Sage was a constant emotional backup when Uzodinma was struggling for his mandate after the 9th March, 2019 governorship election. Okorocha was among the foremost political figures to congratulate him when he finally triumphed at the Supreme Court. It is now bemusing that this same Governor is having no one to pick as a foe apart from Rochas Okorocha, the man who has been in his shoes and can offer him Fatherly counsel considering how well he fared after occupying the seat for eight years.

Prior to this, there have been silent battles fought underneath but the latest showed how low the current administration's moral has sunk. In my part of the world, the prince does not fight like slaves. You can’t be at the helms of affair and still be ‘terrorising’ your subjects. As a child of necessity, Imolites expect more lease of life from Uzodinma than the current drama that is playing out.

Sen. Rochas Okorocha went to Royal Spring Palm Hotel in the company of his two sons-in-law on 19th February after Governor Hope Uzodinma illegally sealed the hotel.
His intent was simply to inquire the reason behind the sealing and take due protocol as a law-abiding, serving Senator of Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Unfortunately, Chinansa Nwaneri, the Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodinma on Special Duties and Eric Uwakwe saw no need for peace as they led a pool of miscreants and abused public office by using the state's police for their personal gain. The gadgets and equipment necessary for the smooth running of the Resorts were all carted away by the opposing forces. They also attacked Okorocha and his crew violently without provocation

As at now, Uzo Anwuka, one of Okorocha's sons-in-law is currently receiving treatment after being shot at on the spot where the state sponsored violence took place while Okorocha, a serving Senator representing Imo West is currently apprehended, detained and was only released on the order of the Presidency. Just wondering, if the hired thugs had murdered the distinguished senator in the process of that needless fracas, what side of history would Governor Hope Uzodinma be?

Prior to this, Okorocha has silently suffered series of blackmail and name-calling along with destruction of properties belonging to him and his family. This hostility is not unconnected to the influence which he can pull in the state when the 2023 Presidential election come knocking.
However, a threat to life is totally uncalled for as Okorocha's Camp can never engage in do-or-die politics. Destroying the legacy you have built with your sweat is not an option in modern democracy.

It must be mentioned that armed thugs attacked Okorocha's residence at Akachi three days before he went to the sealed hotel belonging to his wife, Nneoma Rochas in Owerri.
It should further be stated here that before this ugly incident, the demolition of the hospital complex belonging to the Okorocha’s family had sent many Imolites to the unemployment market and this is quite disheartening in view of the current state of the nation’s economy.
Irrespective of what anyone may think, it is highly condemnable that a former Governor and sitting Senator could be treated this way by those who see political power as the beginning and end of life.

It is therefore important to call on the general public and Mr. President to ensure the safety of all citizens and curb the abuse of office. The safety of Okorocha is very crucial to political stability of Imo State and any further attack will be regarded as a deliberate assassination attempt upon which proper actions will be taken.

By Smart Oluwole Apejoye- Public Affairs Commentator and Advocate of Good Governance

Unity Necessary To Beat COVID-19 - Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali


As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take its toll on businesses and lives in general, His Royal Majesty, Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, Emugoriade 1, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, assured his people that it is a phase that will pass.




In a message to mark his fourth anniversary as ruler of Igbogbo Kingdom, Oba Semiudeen, stated that in order to stem the COVID-19 pandemic, people need to be united in adhering to the laid down directives by the government and the health bodies. 



According to the monarch, beyond the effort of the government, the people need to observe social distancing, proper hygiene practices, abstain from public gathering, and other such regulations.


“The palace understands the toll the COVID-19 pandemic has taken on businesses, and the way of life of people, that is why we are with them during this time of dire need."


“It is at a time like this I urge all Nigerians to remain united in their day-to-day dealings with one another, irrespective of tribe or religion. Together we can defeat this pandemic and have things return to normalcy,” he said.



Kabiyesi seized the opportunity to commiserate with families of Late  Sen. Adebayo Sikiru Osinowo, Senator, Lagos East Senatorial District and other people that might have lost their beloved ones during this trying period.


The Oba also called on the Federal Government, Lagos State Government and appropriate agencies to take the security of lives and property serious, especially as it relates to his community.


According to him, there is no better time to come together to stem the prevailing incidents of cult related violence and other forms of insecurity than now. The cultists must be treated as 'common enemies' to themselves and the future of our great Igbogbo Kingdom.


He further drew the plight of the government to the state of roads in the community, stating that adequate infrastructure is necessary in ensuring a viable economy and  discourage urban migration.


“Other issues I would like to draw the attention of the government to include that of flooding and how it threatens the lives of my people, as well as the delay in compensating people of Igbogbo Kingdom whose houses were demolished to pave ways for road construction."


"It is enough pain to lose ones ancestral home(s) for the development of our kingdom. It is more disheartening to wait endlessly for compensation that is meant to resettle the heroes/heroines of this noble sacrifice."


While thanking the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr Olufemi Hamzat for their unalloyed support, Oba Semiudeen also used the opportunity to remind Mr Governor of the compensation for his people. 


“My sincere appreciation goes to the Ijaolu family, the council of Obas, my traditional and honourary Chiefs, Baales of communities, iyaloja/babaloja, religious bodies, as well as the Chairman and great staff of Igbogbo Bayeku Local Government for the support they have shown me these past four years." 



"My gratitude will lack substance if I don't specially recognize the elected representatives, political actors and community developers that have been of immense support to the throne."



"I would also like to call on the sons and daughters of Igbogbo as well as the Lagos State Government to come together to ensure the rapid development of the Kingdom,” he added.


While appealing to religious bodies to continue praying for the defeat of the pandemic which has prevented believers from observing prayers in different places of worship, Adeboruwa also commended frontline health workers.


“It is also of great importance that I acknowledge sacrifices made by religious leaders and their congregants that have been unable to worship since the breakout of the COVID 19 pandemic. Also, the Olombas. 


“These people have been unable to celebrate important festivals due to the physical distance measure as stipulated by COVID 19 protocols. I enjoin them to keep praying for the world to overcome the challenges.” 


“I also want to identify with our frontline workers in the State ably led by the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi. Their commitments and dedication to duty made it possible for the state to effectively manage the pandemic at great risk to their own health” Kabiyesi said.



“As we gradually approach Ileya celebration, I wish Muslim community a happy celebration and enjoin them to observe the sallah in peace and harmony."


“They should reflect on the importance of the celebration and pray for the country and its leaders. It is also important that they should adhere strictly to whatever directive that may be issued by the government in this regard.” he said.


Born October 20, 1968, in Lagos, Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali studied Law at the University of Ibadan and graduated in 1997. He thereafter proceeded to the Nigerian Law School and was among the last batch in Lagos, before the opening of the Abuja campus. He equally bagged his LLM from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife.



He joined the Pinheiro & Oguntade Law Firm between 1999 and 2000.



Oba Semiudeen took personal interest in International Relations and Politics and  was very much in love with Political Science and International Relations. 



The ruling house, Ijaolu, presented him as its candidate for the stool of Igbogbo Kingdom in June 2015 amongst the three applicants who made the final list.



Oba Semiudeen voluntarily retired his appointment in the Lagos State Civil Service, Ministry of Justice as a Chief State Counsel, Level14 Officer with work experience spanning fifteen years of selfless and meritorious service.



He is married to Olori Sekinat Omolara Kasali and Olori Kafayat Omobolanle Kasali and is blessed with children.


Signed: 

*Steven Anu’ Adesemoye*

*Media & Publicity Consultant to Adeboruwa of igbogbo Kingdom*

Management has observed with dismay the information going viral on social media that the Rector, Mr. Samuel Oluyinka Sogunro has been directed to step-aside from office.

The Directorate of Information and Public Relations hereby informs the general public that the information is baseless and mischievous.

Mr. Samuel Oluyinka Sogunro remains the Rector of the Lagos State Polytechnic and still functions in his full capacity.

We urge the Polytechnic Community and all well-meaning Nigerians to disregard this rumour because it is mischievous and contains no iota of truth.

Mr. Samuel O. Sogunro remains the Rector of the Lagos State Polytechnic.

Signed
Director, Information and Public Relations

It was all pomp and circumstance today as Lagos State polytechnic matriculated over 2000 full time students.

Mr Samuel Sogunro, Rector of Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), Ikorodu, advised the newly admitted students to shun all forms of vices, examination malpractice, cultism and gambling.

Sogunro gave the advice on Thursday in Lagos at the 2019/2020 Matriculation for full-time National Diploma and Higher National Diploma students.

2,108 National Diploma (ND) and 800 Higher National Diploma (HND) were matriculated into the polytechnic.

Sogunro said that the academic board would not hesitate to take stern disciplinary action against any student found violating the rules and regulations of the institution.

“It is, therefore, in your own interest to avoid anything that might cast aspersion on your integrity or bring your academic career to an abrupt end.

“Please remember that the Oath you have taken today is to be obedient to the constituted authority and to be of good conduct during your stay here in the polytechnic,” the Rector said.

He said that the rich academic culture of the polytechnic was acknowledged both within and outside Nigeria.

“Therefore, I urge you to make the best use of the opportunity of your admission into this great institution by using your time wisely and making academic pursuit your primary concern.

“Please embrace the compulsory Computer Education programme which is a vital part of our academic programmes in the polytechnic, as well as the compulsory Agriculture course,” Sogunro said.


He called on parents and guardians to assist the state government by paying their taxes on time.

“This is because the provision of qualitative education requires a lot of materials and financial resources,” the Rector said.

….Sanwo-Olu: ‘Disengaged Staff Must Submit Appeal Letter Within 7 Days’

...We appreciate the role a strong, dynamic and enlightened academic union is playing in entrenching culture of industrial harmony and development

...We'll Deal With Troublemakers, Governor Warns

Worried by the lingering industrial crisis rocking the Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday, constituted a Visitation Panel with a task to investigate all contentious issues that are setting the staff union of the school against the management.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also ordered members of staff earlier disengaged by the management to forward their letters of appeal to the school’s Governing Council within seven (7) days for a review of the process of their disengagement, but with a condition that the appeal letters get endorsed by the Head of Service to ensure transparency in the review process.

The Governor expressed concern over the effects of the protracted crisis on the wellbeing of the school, noting that the prevailing situation had affected the morale of law-abiding employees of the institution, as well as the academic performance of its students.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said the Government was aware of the humiliation and denigration that the Governing Council and management of the school had endured in the last six months when this impasse began, calling on all stakeholders to keep peace in the interest of the students.

The Governor said: “By the powers conferred on me as Governor of Lagos state, I hereby order the constitution of a Visitation Panel to the Institution to investigate all contentious issues and submit its recommendations for my consideration.

“The State Government, without prejudice to an earlier rebuff of its magnanimous gesture to re-consider the disengagement of some employees of the Institution, is once again asking disengaged Officers who are willing to continue their service in the institution to forward their letters of appeal to the institution’s Governing Council within seven days for a review of their disengagement. Copies of such letters should be duly endorsed to the Head of Service for an unbiased review of the process leading to their disengagement.

“Employees of the institution should note that they are under contractual obligation to perform optimally as stated in the terms of their employment. Any acts that are contrary to this shall be treated in accordance with the Public Service Rules, other extant regulations and the Labour Laws.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration appreciated the role a strong, dynamic and enlightened academic union is playing in entrenching culture of industrial harmony and development, he however said his government would not bend to blackmail and be hoodwinked by “a union that continues to carry out its agitations in a manner that threatens and is becoming inimical to the peace of the state.”

He warned any member of the school bent on breaching the peace in the school, saying such person would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

“For the avoidance of doubt, all acts capable of disrupting academic activities, breaching a conducive working environment and peaceful co-existence in the Institution shall be dealt with in accordance with the Laws,” the Governor said.

The Governor praised students of the school for their “peaceful conduct” in the face of the “needless crisis”, wishing them good luck in their forthcoming examination.
Sanwo-Olu assured that normalcy would be restored and sustained in the institution, while ensuring safety and security of all members of the school during and after the examination.

In a bid to educate people on legal matters, Steven Adesomoye, a teacher, film director and producer, has created a new television programme, ‘Panpe Ofin’, which he said is to enable people know their fundamental human rights and stave off ignorance of the law.

“It’s going to be a small programme,” said the lecturer in the department of mass communication, Lagos State Polytechnic, Ikorodu.

“We will move from Yoruba to pidgin then we can now start talking about enlarging it but the plan is to have a website where we will have a pool of lawyers that will be ready to take up cases for poor people. They don’t have to suffer and die in silence. The first phase is to start the ‘Panpe Ofin’; let people know their rights and how to pursue all these matters legally.”

While Adesomoye admitted he is bearing all the expense of the production, he said he is not bothered. On his strategy, he said he employed the use of his students.



“In shooting Panpe Ofin, from the last person to the director were my students,” he said.

“I involve my students 100 per cent. Being an educator, I want to educate in all ramification.

“At the beginning, I am not expecting money. As a film teacher I have my equipment, then I have built a studio then what I have done is to use my students in handling the cameras, handling editing. That does not mean that I am not going to pay. I will pay for graphics, I will pay editors… It is my own contribution to the society. If eventually money comes, fantastic, if it doesn’t come, no problem. The most important thing is to keep pushing. It will not take me anything to spend half a million from my salary a year to put the programme on air. And in the cause of doing it, if I get people that are willing to be part of this, fantastic. I want to see people change, it is very important to me.”

Adesomoye who has created projects such as ‘Abinibi’, ‘Ajurawalo’, ‘Adehun’, ‘Ise ori ran mi’, ‘Aya rere’, ‘Akomalede’ and ‘Aya rere lodede oko’ is positive about Nollywood, especially in the area of collaborations.

“I see Nollywood having more collaboration from across the globe,” he said.

“I see Nollywood treating more issue based and advocacy films in the next five years. I see Nollywood creating more empowerment and adding more to our GDP in another five years. I see Nollywood creating more film tourism for Nigeria, I see a Nollywood that would have purged itself and become a force to reckon with not only in terms of quantity but in quality, I see a Nollywood that is going to be treating out-of-this-world films that you have never seen before because we have stories that we haven’t told yet.”

Source: The Nation

The Registrar, Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), Mr Shakirudeen Bello, on Tuesday appealed to striking workers of the institution to sheath their swords and embrace dialogue to resolve the ongoing dispute.


Bello made the appeal during a seminar on industrial relations and dispute management organised by LASPOTECH in Ikorodu.

The News Agency Nigeria (NAN) reports that LASPOTECH non-academic staff had embarked on strike since January this year over the dispute on payment of salary migration CONTIS 15.


“The seminar was organised to enlighten our workers on the consequences of embarking on strike and the new dynamics of employee relationship with the management.


“Having understood the lecture, I urge you all to appeal to those who did not attend this seminar to let us come to a round table together and look out for a possible way to resolve the ongoing dispute.

“Due to the ongoing strike promotions are put on hold; however, we will continue to organise this kind of seminar till the matter is resolved,” the registrar said.

Dr Rosemary Danesi, in her lecture, advised the unions to make use of the appropriate method of resolving issues, especially dispute among their members or between them and their employer.


Danesi, Senior Lecturer, University of Lagos, said there was a need to properly orientate and educate the union on ways of resolving the dispute.

“Once a dispute is established, the matter should be resolved through a statutory dispute resolution method,” she said.

Also, Director General (DG) Lagos State Public Staff Development Centre, Dr Ajose Harrison, urged both the union and management to adopt Alternative Dispute Resolution’ option to resolve the lingering dispute.


Ajose-Harrison suggested a review of the condition of service and scheme of service, effective communication, proper information dissemination as well as quarterly meetings between labour and management.

According to him, management should create an information administrator who would not delay dissemination of information and be more proactive in human relations.

“The industrial and labour relation should be used appropriately and both parties should embrace dialogue as a way of resolving an industrial dispute instead of a strike and destroying properties,”

The Management of Lagos State Polytechnic is not in anyway connected to the arrest and subsequent trial of 8 staff members as it is currently being peddled by some people and a session of the media.

To the best of the knowledge of LASPOTECH Management, the affected staff members that are currently facing trial were invited by the Nigeria Police for interrogation and charged to court in line with the dictates of the law.

The suspects were alleged to be involved in assaulting with petrol, two officials of Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and physically attacked and injured the Polytechnic's Director of ICT on Friday, 29th March, 2019 during the preparation for the JAMB CBT mock examination exercise in the Polytechnic

The general public could also recall that, the Registrar of JAMB- Prof. Ishaq Oloyede while reporting the readiness of his Board for the 2019 JAMB examination to the Honourable Minister of Education- Mallam Adamu Adamu on Monday, 1st April, 2019 lamented the attempt to set some of his officials ablaze at LASPOTECH centre and vowed to ensure justice is done.

It would also be recalled that, the affected officials reported the assault at the Shagamu road police station, and the Nigeria police had since taken over the case.

The story making rounds to smear the image of the Polytechnic's Management is a calculated attempt to distract the general public from the heinous act.

The ongoing trial is strictly between the Nigeria Police and the suspects. It has nothing to do with the ongoing trade dispute that is already being attended to by the Lagos State Government.

SIGNED
Olanrewaju K. Kuye
Deputy Registrar ( information & public relations)

The Management of Lagos State Polytechnic has debunked the claim by one its staff that the just concluded first semester 2018/2019 examinations were fraudulent.

The examinations went through the process of best global practices from the internal and external moderation of questions to the conduct of same examinations.

Adequate security and medical services, power supply and all other essential needs were put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the examinations despite the non - academic staff unions' several attempts at disrupting the academic exercise.

It should be on record that Mr Salami Gbenga who granted the interview, casting aspersion on the conduct of the examinations was never a member of the Non Academic staff union talkless of being the spoke person of the said union as he claimed. Rather he was the former vice chairman of the Academic Staff Union of the Polytechnic but of which he was removed from office alongside other executive members of the union for gross misconduct against the members of the union.

It should also be noted that Mr Salami participated fully in the invigilation of the exercise, graded the students scripts and had since submitted his results. There was no time he reported any wrong doing throughout the examination.

It would be recalled that the non academic staff unions addressed a press conference to disrupt the first semester 2018/2019 examinations, and made real their threat by cutting off water supplies, medical services and power supplies, including the generating set. But the Management of the institution thwarted their plans with the support of the security agencies to ensure the smooth conduct of the examinations that started on Monday, 4th March 2019 and lasted for three weeks hitch free.


SIGNED
Olanrewaju K. Kuye
Deputy Registrar ( information & public relations)

The Lagos State Polytechnic Management is aware of the ugly incident of molestation of two JAMB Officials who were on official assignment to the Ikorodu campus of the Polytechnic and the Polytechnic's Director of ICT on Friday, 29th March, 2019 by some non-teaching staff of the Polytechnic.

While the Polytechnic condemns this act of barbarism, we are using this medium to assure the Registrar of JAMB and indeed, the entire Nigerians that the Lagos State Government and the Polytechnic management are already addressing the issue and that the Police is on top of the matter.

All those involved are definitely going to face the full wrath of the law.

We therefore deeply apologise to the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, the Registrar - Prof. Ishaq Oloyede and the attacked officials for this unwarranted assault on innocent staff by the members of the non teaching staff of the Polytechnic.

SIGNED
Olanrewaju K. Kuye
Deputy Registrar ( information & public relations)

The long running rift between the Management of Lagos State Polytechnic and its staff unions took a new turn last Wednesday when the aggrieved Unions stalled activities in the school main campus in Ikorodu shutting down the school gates for several days. Students were seen scaling the school’s fence to find their way out.

However, the case was dredged at the National Industrial Court on Monday when the warring parties appeared before his lordship Hon. Justice E. A. Oji who urged the aggrieved associations to maintain peace and not obstruct the official activities of the school pending when the case will be heard again on June 18th 2019. Below is the officially documented report from that sitting.

mrphysics:
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