The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Firm invests over N4b in Lagos port digital traffic management

    Firm invests over N4b in Lagos port digital traffic management

    No fewer than 3.38 million trucks visited the Lagos Port Complex (LPC), the Tin-Can Island port and its environs in the last 57 months, with over N4 billion invested in the electronic truck call-up project since its inception.

    This was disclosed in Lagos, yesterday, by the Managing Director, Trucks Transit Parks (TTP) Limited, Jama Onwubuariri.

    TTP is Nigeria’s leading tech mobility company and operators of the ‘Eto’ electronic call-up system introduced by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

    NPA introduced “Ètò”, an electronic call-up system, in February 2021 to manage the movement of trucks and address the severe traffic congestion around the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Ports.

    The system has streamlined access to the ports and improved efficiency by scheduling truck movements digitally, eliminating human interference, and eliminated traffic gridlock within and around LPC and Tin-Can Island port.

    Speaking during a Round Table organised by the firm, themed ‘From Gridlock to Growth: Re-Imagining Port logistics in Nigeria,’ Onwubuariri disclosed that the

    company has invested over N4 billion in the electronic call-up project since its inception in 2021.

    READ ALSO: I’ll serve Oyo state people till my last day in office – Makinde

    He explained that before the electronic call-up commenced in February 2021, the firm spent N2.4 billion on the Lillypond Terminal, where the electronic call-up operates from.

    According to Mr. Onwubuariri, “We spent about N4 billion at the beginning in Lillypond Terminal.

    “That was in the course of 20 months to implement the electronic call-up system at Lillypond Terminal. This happened before the call-up system commenced. That was the original investment.

    “I do not have the details here as to how much more has been invested over time, but we know that the e-Tag solution, which we agreed to deploy for free, was to cost about N200 million to deploy.

    “So, in total, I think we have invested up to N4.2 billion across board since inception.”

    On areas of improving the system, the TTP Co-founder added that truckers still duplicate plate numbers, duplicate Terminal Delivery Order (TDO) and involved in stalling along the port access roads.

    He further explained: “On the duplication of plate numbers, it is because of the porous nature of plate number administration in Nigeria. We don’t have a single authority that is responsible for producing number plates.

    “So, some drivers seem to have this ability to go and use either another person’s number plate, or to duplicate their own number plate, or even to produce a number plate that does not exist and use it for the purpose of registering their vehicles or their trucks.

    “One of the things TTP has done to stem this, while waiting for the longer-term solution is to develop what we call the electronic tagging system. This electronic tagging system ensures that each truck has a digital identity that does not change. That digital identity is also tamper-proof.

    “So, we have developed the eTag system, and since 2023, we have been waiting for approval by the regulator for that eTag to be deployed. So, when the eTag is deployed, trucks will no longer be able to change their digital identity, either by using another person’s plate numbers or by faking a plate number and trying to use it to register on the system.

    “Regarding TDO duplication, again, we have developed what is called the E-Call-Up Interchange Transaction Number (EITN). What this digital solution does is that when a terminal operator has called a truck to come into the port, it is mandated under that platform to only service the truck that it invited and not any other truck.

    “So stalling, again, is an enforcement issue. A truck that has either lost its business because another truck that was closer to the port has picked up that cargo on its behalf, or instead of it, will now wait to find another business, thereby clogging the queue.”

    Also speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner of Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said as Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of its transportation and logistics networks, it is at a crucial juncture where innovative ideas and collaborative efforts can create pathways for growth and development, while transforming its port logistics from the challenges of gridlock to the opportunities for prosperity.

    Osiyemi highlighted challenges such as congestion, inefficiency, and a lack of integrated systems that hinder the ports from reaching their full potential, noting that with the right partnerships, investment in technology, and a commitment to reform, the ports can be turned into thriving hubs of commerce that support not only the economy but also the seamless movement of goods across our great nation.

    In his own presentation, the Chairman of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO), Chief Remi Ogungbemi, warned that only people benefiting from the chaos and confusion that plagued the Lagos Port access roads before the electronic call-up implementation will call for the cancellation of the Eto contract.

    “The electronic call-up has revolutionised port access since 2021. There are rooms for improvement, but definitely not a cancellation of the project. The electronic call-up has come to stay,” Ogungbemi stated.

    The Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), Bolaji Sunmola, who was represented by his Vice Chairman, Jean Anishere (SAN), lauded the electronic call-up and called for its sustainability if Nigerian ports must remain competitive and attractive for business.

  • NAICOM insists on Strict Capital Verification

    NAICOM insists on Strict Capital Verification

    The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has declared that transparency and integrity in the ongoing Minimum Capital Requirement (MCR) verification exercise are “non-negotiable.”

    Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, made the position known at the EY Insurance Summit on the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, where he detailed the Commission’s multi-layered reform agenda.

    Omosehin explained that the Commission’s collaboration with global audit firms is central to guaranteeing credibility in the capital verification process. “This is why we are partnering with the Big 4 firms to conduct independent verification of the MCR of all insurance companies,” he said.

    He compared the verification exercise to strict aviation security procedures, saying, “What we are doing is akin to the scanner at airports. Every entity must pass through the scanner to validate compliance with the MCR. Our partnership with the Big 4 firms ensures independent validation of compliance with the MCR in line with extant laws and regulations. This collaboration is a cornerstone of investor confidence and market credibility.”

    READ ALSO; No Boko Haram suspects held in Lagos, CP Jimoh

    The NAICOM chief disclosed that industry operators were responding positively to the process. According to him, “Industry response has been encouraging with a significant number of insurers indicating readiness for capital verification. Boards have approved strategies for fresh capital injection, mergers, and operational restructuring. The Commission has completed reviews of recapitalization plans and issued feedback to institutions.”

    Omosehin stressed that recapitalisation is only the starting point. “Recapitalization is the foundation, not the finish line,” he said, adding that after completing the MCR exercise and issuing licences to compliant firms, the Commission will immediately begin implementing the Risk-Based Capital (RBC) framework.

    According to him, the RBC Framework “is already concluded and will soon be re-exposed for stakeholder comments. The RBC Toolkit for analysis is nearing completion and will be used for RBC computation. RBC will align capital requirements with the risk profile of each institution, encouraging prudent risk management and capital allocation.”

    He also drew attention to emerging regulatory obligations under IFRS 17, stating that the new accounting standard introduces complexities requiring actuarial depth. “The implementation of IFRS 17 introduces new complexities in valuation and reporting. Actuaries will play a critical role in pricing compulsory insurance, assessing liability valuations, supporting RBC computations, and enhancing NAICOM’s regulatory data collection and analytics infrastructure,” he said.

    Omosehin added that the Commission is concluding plans to engage an actuary to strengthen capacity in these areas and support industry-wide actuarial development.

    The NAICOM boss further set out NAICOM’s expectations from insurers, reinsurers, actuaries, auditors, brokers, technology partners, and investors. He said the Commission expects insurance and reinsurance companies to demonstrate full compliance with MCR timelines, adopt transparent reporting practices, invest in technology, entrench sound risk management systems, and prioritise prompt claims settlement. He noted that actuarial professionals must assist companies on IFRS 17 compliance and liability valuation, while audit firms are expected to ensure the integrity and independence of the capital verification exercise. Other stakeholders, including brokers, investors, and technology partners, he said, should drive innovation in distribution, deepen customer engagement, and expand the use of Insurtech solutions to support financial inclusion.

    He reaffirmed the commitment of the current NAICOM management to collaborate with all stakeholders. “The current management of NAICOM is fully committed to working with all stakeholders – insurers, reinsurers, brokers, loss adjusters, actuaries, auditors, and technology partners – to change the narrative of the Nigerian insurance industry. Our shared goal is a sector that is resilient, innovative, and globally competitive.”

    Addressing lingering industry challenges, Omosehin acknowledged concerns around mergers and acquisitions, macroeconomic instability, and capacity gaps. He stated that integration issues in M&A processes must be carefully managed, while inflationary pressures and foreign exchange volatility continue to affect capital mobilisation. He also stressed that financial strength alone is insufficient without strong underwriting expertise and robust risk management frameworks.

    He noted that NAICOM’s regulatory approach is principle-based, offering clarity while creating room for innovation within a safe operating environment.

    Looking beyond compliance, the Commissioner presented the Commission’s broader strategic vision for the sector. He said the long-term goal is to build resilience and competitiveness through digital transformation, AI-enabled fraud detection, the use of IoT for risk prevention, and fully digital insurance platforms. Omosehin also stressed the importance of embedding sustainability principles in underwriting and investment decisions to align with global ESG standards, attract responsible capital, and take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    He added that the future of the industry depends on its capacity to develop local risk models and deepen analytics to tackle new and evolving threats including climate change, cyber risks, and public health emergencies.

    According to him, achieving this vision requires strong balance sheets, cohesive regulation, and unified industry action.

  • Tinubu, Atiku, Akpabio, Barau mourn renowned Muslim leader Dahiru Bauchi

    Tinubu, Atiku, Akpabio, Barau mourn renowned Muslim leader Dahiru Bauchi

    • He was a colossus, exponent of tolerance, says ex-VP

    • State govt declares today public holiday to honour scholar 

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of one of Nigeria’s most revered Islamic scholars and leader of the Tijjaniyya Muslim Brotherhood, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, who died yesterday at the age of 101.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau also expressed sorrow over the passing of the Islamic scholar.

    In a statement in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the late cleric as “a moral compass who dedicated his life to teaching and preaching”.

    He noted that Sheikh Bauchi’s death represents a monumental loss not only to his immediate family and followers but also to the entire nation.

    President Tinubu recalled the spiritual guidance and support he received from the revered scholar, especially during the period leading up to the 2023 presidential election.

    “Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was a teacher, a father and a voice of moderation and reason. As both a preacher and a notable exegete of the Holy Qur’an, he was an advocate of peace and piety. His death has created a huge void,” he said.

    The President extended heartfelt condolences to the Tijjaniyya community across Nigeria and beyond, urging the departed scholar’s followers to honour his memory by upholding the values he espoused.

    He urged the followers to remain steadfast in their relationship with Almighty Allah, promote peaceful coexistence and show kindness to humanity.

    READ ALSO; No Boko Haram suspects held in Lagos, CP Jimoh

    Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, widely respected for his scholarship and spiritual influence, spent decades teaching Islamic jurisprudence, mentoring clerics, and providing guidance to millions of followers.

    President Tinubu prayed for the repose of his soul and urged the nation to draw inspiration from the late cleric’s lifelong commitment to peace, faith, and moral discipline.

    Also, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has declared today a public holiday in honour of the departed Islamic scholar.

    A statement by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, explained that the work-free day is meant to allow government workers, students, followers, and the general public to participate in the funeral prayers and pay their last respects to Sheikh Bauchi.

    The funeral prayer is scheduled to take place today in accordance with Islamic rites.

    “This decision is a mark of respect for the late Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, whose life and legacy in Islamic scholarship, Qur’anic education, spiritual mentorship, and promotion of peace and unity have left a profound impact in Nigeria and beyond,” the statement said.

    Also, Atiku, who is a chieftain of opposition platform, the the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC), described the death of Sheikh Bauchi as a devastating loss not only to the Muslim community in Nigeria but also to Africa.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja by his media office, the former Vice President said the Sheikh’s demise comes at a time his healing voice was badly needed in a country infected by religious division created by demagogues who do not mean well for Nigeria.

    “Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi had frequently lent his wise voice whenever Nigeria had faced challenges of religious divisions,” he said.

    The Waziri Adamawa added: “Dahiru Bauchi would be remembered for years to come because of his immeasurable contributions to the promotion of unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.”

    The ADC chieftain noted that “when it comes to scholarship and learning, the late Bauchi was a colossus whose impact will be indelible in the hearts and minds of the people”.

    Atiku also paid a tribute to the Tijaniyya leader, describing him as “a man who used the pulpit to promote unity and religious harmony at a time some people were busy spreading the seeds of hate and bigotry”.

    He prayed to the Almighty Allah to forgive his sins and grant his soul a peaceful repose.

    Also, Akpabio and Barau sent heartfelt condolences to the people and government of Bauchi State, as well as the Islamic Ummah and the family of the late Sheik Bauchi.

    In a condolence message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, Senator Akpabio described the deceased as an epitome of Islamic scholarship and an embodiment of Islamic intellectual history.

    “On behalf of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, my family and constituents, I wish to extend my deepest condolences to the government and people of Bauchi State, as well as the Islamic Ummah and the family of the late renowned Islamic scholar and supreme leader of the Tijaniyyah Movement, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, OFR.

    “He was a committed Moslem and a custodian of the teachings of the Islamic faith. Indeed, his contributions to Islamic scholarship and leadership in the Tijaniyya Movement in Nigeria have left an indelible mark,” Akpabio said.

    In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Alhaji Ismail Mudashir, Senator Barau described Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s death as “a huge vacuum that will be difficult to fill”,

    The Deputy Senate President extolled the scholar’s decades of unwavering service to Islam, humanity, and the global Muslim community.

    He said: “I mourn the passing of our renowned Islamic scholar and leader, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi — a great icon of Islamic scholarship whose light shone on millions of Muslims across Nigeria and beyond.

    “Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s lifetime of service, his dedication to the Qur’an,  tireless preaching, spiritual leadership over the Tijaniyya movement, and work establishing Qur’anic schools and humanitarian outreach changed lives and strengthened the faith of generations.

    “His scholarship and commitment to advancing Islamic education and moral values were a beacon for millions. He was more than a scholar — he was a father, teacher, and guide to millions,” he said.

  • NAF promotes 57 officers to new ranks

    NAF promotes 57 officers to new ranks

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced the promotion of 57 senior officers to the ranks of Air Vice Marshal and Air Commodore.

    A statement yesterday in Abuja by the NAF’s spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said 27 officers were promoted to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, while 30 were promoted to the rank of Air Commodore.

    Those promoted to Air Vice Marshal are: Air Commodores S. A. Eyoma, G.I. Jibia, A.A. Adebomehin, E.S. Odekina, C.E. Akubue, S.O. Eyekosi, A.O. Akinbuwa, L.I. Kamat, A.G. Akinyimika, A.O. Bamidele, A.K. Famuyiwa, P.J. Edem, S.A. Madaki, O.T. Salami, F.O. Ankeli, M.J. Chidama, J.J. Ijudigal, M. Umar, I.J. Ogbodo, U. Ariahu, A.L. Dakwat, C.E. Akpa, E.C. Ukpong, I.S. Subi, I.M. Yusha’u, S.S. Lazarus and F. Ekpah.

    According to the statement, those promoted to Air Commodore are: Group Captains M.A. Imam, A.A. Komolafe, H.I. Eze, D.U. Edet, M.B. Umar, G.H. Okoh, S.P. Sekegor, P.P. Okonkwo, P.U. Okweugo, A.U. Yahaya, M. Yahaya, I.R. Ubeh, O.K. Cole, E.A. Ifebi, R.K. Olundu, I.O. Akpasa, A.K. Mohammed, H.A. Meshack, S.N. Nwachi, Z.B. Shuwa, E.J. Alabila, S.A. Osoniyi, A.O. Ogunmola, A.J. Arumona, B.I. Jayeoba, C.E. Akuh, N.N. Onuoha-Mba, P.A. Garba, Y.M. Abdullahi, and M. Suleiman.

    READ ALSO: I’ll serve Oyo state people till my last day in office – Makinde

    The statement explained that the promotion cycle reflected a deliberate effort to reinforce high-command leadership, enhance operational expertise, and strengthen the intellectual and strategic backbone of the Service.

    “Each officer was selected following a rigorous evaluation of merit, professional competence, operational experience, loyalty to the Service, and alignment with the strategic objectives of the Nigerian Air Force,” it said.

    According to the statement, the elevation was guided by the need to deepen command responsibility, sharpen operational decision-making, and enhance the NAF’s readiness posture across multiple theatres of operation.

    It said the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, urged the officers to serve with integrity, humility, and operational sharpness “while strengthening synergy with sister services, enhancing intelligence exploitation, mentoring junior personnel, and upholding the highest standards of discipline in all air operations”.  

  • ‘Ibadan to experience development soon’

    ‘Ibadan to experience development soon’

    Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has said Ibadan, Oyo State capital, would soon witness quick and positive economic transformation.

    He spoke while hosting members of the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Association of Oyo State, who were at the Oke Aremo Palace on a visit.

    The monarch noted that it was a more profitable thing to be a manufacturer, rather than distributors, to maximise gains and provide employment opportunities

    He said to alleviate the problems confronting industries in Ibadanland such as electricity, water, roads among others, the Olubadan-in-Council had set up an Economic and Investment Committee to address the challenges.

    READ ALSO: On Ezra Olubi’s nemesis

    The originator of the FMCG Oyo State branch, Mrs Apeke Adeogun, congratulated Oba Ladoja on his ascension to the throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland and prayed for sound health, prosperity and longevity of life for the monarch.

    She assured the Olubadan that FMCG would contribute its quotas to the economic development and progress of Ibadanland.

    The management of JAIZ Bank PLC, Ibadan branch, has also paid a solidarity visit to the Olubadan.

    The Group Head, Mr Ismail Arowolo, pledged the support of the bank for the rapid economic development of Ibadan.

  • Abbas: corruption undermining our growth

    Abbas: corruption undermining our growth

    House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas has said that despite making several laws to deter citizens from acts of malfeasance, corruption has continued to drag the nation’s development backwards.

    Abbas said this at a public hearing on three Bills to strengthen anti-corruption agencies in the country.

    The Speaker, who was represented by Deputy Minority Leader Sani Madaki, stated that corruption has had the most negative impact on our country’s development trajectory since independence in 1960.

    He noted that the ugly trend has persisted despite the existence of legislation that provides for anti-corruption agencies and empowers them to eradicate the scourge from society and ensure that Nigerians enjoy the benefits of their investments in democracy.

    Abbas said the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Offences Commission (ICPC) were established as critical instruments in Nigeria’s fight against corruption and serve as the watchdogs that enforce ethical standards among public officials and ensure that public the office is not used for personal enrichment to the detriment of the citizenry.

    He said: “As our democracy matures and our legal and governance landscape evolves, the enabling framework guiding these institutions must be revisited and strengthened to meet contemporary challenges.

    READ ALSO; Will Sujimoto bounce back?

    “The opportunity provided by this public hearing enables all of us to critically examine the proposed amendments and evaluate them against our collective national interest.

    “As you are aware, corruption has had the most negative impact on our country’s development trajectory since independence in 1960. This is despite the existence of legislation that provided for anti-corruption agencies and empowered them to make every effort to ensure the eradication of this scourge from our society and guarantee that Nigerians enjoyed the benefits of their investments in democracy.

    “This is a vital platform for robust dialogue between the Legislature and stakeholders, including legal experts, civil society, government officials, and members of the public. Your contributions will enrich the legislative process by bringing diverse perspectives, expert insights, and practical recommendations for the creation of effective and just legislation.

    “We must collectively ensure that the amended Act fortifies our anti-corruption architecture, promotes quick and fair adjudication of cases, and sustains public confidence in the institutions mandated to uphold integrity in the public sector. Let us engage and dialogue for the good governance of our country.”

    The Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, Prince Kayode Akiolu, said the CCB, the CCT, and the ICC have long been frontline institutions in Nigeria’s efforts to promote public integrity and accountability.

    He said: “Over time, the legal framework governing these bodies has encountered various challenges that have hindered the effectiveness of their operations and, by extension, the fight against corruption.

    “These Bills to amend the Acts are a necessary and timely response aimed at addressing identified gaps and weaknesses. Our objectives include enhancing the operational independence of these institutions, improving their investigative and adjudicatory powers, and ensuring that due process and fair hearing are respected in the handling of cases involving public officers.

    “As members of the Committee on Anti-Corruption, we are fully aware that the success of this Bill depends largely on a comprehensive and transparent consultative process.

    “That is why we have invited a broad range of stakeholders to share their insights, concerns, and recommendations. We are committed to incorporating your valuable inputs into the final version of the law to ensure that it serves both justice and national interest.”

    According to him, while corruption undermines development, erodes public trust, and weakens democratic institutions, strengthening the CCB, the CBT, and the ICPC is crucial not only for combating corruption in the public sector but also for restoring Nigerians’ faith in governance.

  • Governor sacks EdoGIS boss

    Governor sacks EdoGIS boss

    Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has sacked Managing Director of Edo State Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS), Mr. Tony Ikpasajah.

    Government sources, who confirmed the sack, said Ikpasajah had been issued an official letter relieving him of his appointment.

    The sources said the governor was embarrassed that Ikpasajah misled him to revoke statutory Rights of Occupancy of Presco Oil in Ologbo, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government.

    READ ALSO: On Ezra Olubi’s nemesis

    Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Ikhilor, in a statement, said Ikpasajah acted unilaterally, without authorisation, and in  disregard for established procedures and the actual number of hectares intended for excision from PRESCO PLC’s total landholding.

    The statement said a formal administrative review had been initiated to address the unauthorised actions of the former EDOGIS managing director and to strengthen internal controls and prevent future breaches.

    Ikpasajah could not be reached for comments.

  • Lagos APC lauds Tinubu’s security emergency declaration

    Lagos APC lauds Tinubu’s security emergency declaration

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State yesterday lauded the declaration of security emergency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The chapter also hailed the approval of an additional 20,000 new police recruits – a historic measure that brings the total security intake under his administration to an unprecedented 50,000 new personnel, following the earlier recruitment approval of 30,000 officers.

    Lagos APC Publicity Secretary Seye Oladejo said in a statement: “This is leadership in its purest form – decisive, courageous and unflinchingly focused on restoring peace and stability across Nigeria.”

    He hailed the President’s request for legislative action by asking the National Assembly to urgently review existing laws to empower states to establish state police where necessary.

    Oladejo said:” This is a clear departure from decades of lip-service paid to decentralised policing. President Tinubu is not only confronting insecurity with manpower and resources; he is also restructuring the very foundations of Nigeria’s policing architecture to meet the realities of modern threats.

    ‘’No President in recent history has shown this level of boldness and clarity in tackling long-standing constitutional bottlenecks that have hampered security enforcement at sub-national levels.

    READ ALSO: On Ezra Olubi’s nemesis

    ‘’The recruitment of 20,000 new officers – now totalling 50,000 under Tinubu – signifies: A reinvigorated national security posture. A decisive shift from reactive to offensive operations. A government willing to take hard decisions for the safety of its people

    ‘’While habitual critics trade in alarmism, President Tinubu is expanding capacity, reinforcing intelligence and strengthening the boots-on-ground required to overwhelm criminal cartels and their enablers.

    ‘’This is the type of strategic leadership Nigeria has long needed – and now has.

    Those who left Nigeria vulnerable through negligence, mismanagement and incompetence should be the last to question a President who is doing what they never attempted.

    ‘’They never recruited at this scale.

    They never reformed at this depth.

    They never summoned the courage to push for state policing.

    ‘’President Tinubu is rebuilding what they recklessly dismantled.

    ‘’With a combined intake of 50,000 officers, strengthened intelligence coordination and potential constitutional reform to establish state police, Nigeria is entering a decisive phase in its security evolution.

    ‘’Nigeria is in safe hands. Nigeria is protected by a President who leads with vision and courage. Nigeria is advancing toward a future where security is guaranteed, not gambled with.

    ‘’The Lagos APC proudly stands with President Tinubu as he takes bold, historic steps to secure every Nigerian, in every state, without exception.’’

  • Circular Road: We’ll address property owners’ demands, says committee

    Circular Road: We’ll address property owners’ demands, says committee

    A committee set up by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to look into issues of corridor and setback on Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road has been inaugurated.

    The committee said it would look into the issues before it with a view to finding a solution.

    The committee, which comprises representatives of the residents of communities affected by the project, representatives of the Ibadan Mogaji in the six affected local governments; chairmen of local governments affected by the project; Chairman of local government chairmen in Oyo State, Sikiru Sanda and Executive Adviser to Oyo State Governor on New Towns and Cities Development Authority, Mrs Mofoluke Adebiyi, said the committee was set up to look into the presentations  of residents affected by the Circular Road project.

    Speaking yesterday shortly after the committee’s inaugural meeting at the Conference Room of the New Towns and Cities Development Authority, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, Mrs Adebiyi said the committee would look into the issues surrounding the Circular Road project and the pronouncements made by the governor.

    She said: “We also want to ensure the policies of government are properly driven home, to ensure everybody will smile at the end of the day, particularly residents that are affected.”

    READ ALSO; Will Sujimoto bounce back?

    Recall that Governor Makinde had on Wednesday engaged residents affected by the project, noting that he would set up a committee to work on the recommendations and positions of residents and the plans of the government on the ongoing 110km Senator Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja Circular Road project.

    Adebiyi said the committee had been mandated to ensure policies of the government on the setback and the corridor of the project were followed.

    She assured people that the committee would ensure fairness and justice for all concerned.

    Speaking on behalf of the local governments affected by the ongoing project, the Chairman of Egbeda Local Government, Sanda, appreciated Governor Makinde for keeping to his promise to engage with the property owners and also appreciated the people of the state for their resilience during the period.

    He assured the affected property owners that issues relating to the setback and development of the circular road project corridor would be resolved, as the committee would work with the agency, Ibadan Mogaji and the representatives of the communities affected to ensure critical issues were addressed.

  • Govt to deepen Lagosians’ engagement in governance

    Govt to deepen Lagosians’ engagement in governance

    Lagos State Government has unveiled a three-year Strategic Plan and Communication Strategy (2025-2027) documents in a move to deepen citizens’ participation in governance.

    The documents, which were unveiled in Lagos by the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (OPL&CE), aim to strengthen the bond between government and the people through effective communication of government’s activities to the citizens, thereby allowing them to take active participation in governance.

    Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr Afolabi Abiodun, at the event held in Ikeja, noted that Lagos being a state with people from diverse backgrounds, there was need for people to participate in government policies that could shape their future.

    The documents, he said, would improve public trust and widen opportunities for meaningful engagement between the government and the public.

    “The strategic plan and communication strategy align deeply with the THEMES+ Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration. The plan advances this agenda by fostering transparent communication, enhancing collaboration between the executive and legislature, and ensuring stakeholders, both formal and informal, are fully engaged in the decision-making process.

    READ ALSO; Will Sujimoto bounce back?

    ‘’Ultimately, it serves as the foundation for meaningful engagement. At the core of this plan is a belief that public participation must become a culture, rather than an event. A government that values its people must create continuous avenues for citizens to express themselves, offer opinions and contribute solutions,” Abiodun said.

    He mentioned some of the strategies the office plans to use to achieve its objectives to include strategic dialogues, structured town hall formats, digital feedback platforms, advisory mechanisms and more targeted civic education initiatives.

    The special adviser added that the CitizensGate platform created by the Lagos State Government where Lagosians could communicate with government on issues ‘’is one of the ways the government is building an environment where residents can engage the government without barriers.

    Abiodun asked Lagosians to work with the state government, noting that ‘’governance is a collective responsibility which demands transparency from government and active participation from the people.’’

    The Permanent Secretary, Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Sholabomi Shasore, said traditional rulers, social media influencers, media practitioners, civil society organisations, community development associations and movie directors were part of stakeholders that would drive the implementation of the strategy.

    “Every citizen wants the government to communicate with them. The plan reveals all that we need to do. We want the people to know how the government is run in Nigeria, therefore, your expertise is important in amplifying our message. Our mandate is to ensure citizens are well engaged,” Shasore said.

    A human and gender rights advocate from Yiaga Africa, who was one of the participants, Cynthia Mbamalu, commended OPL&CE and Lagos State Government for the initiative.

    “Civic engagement is key to Nigeria’s democracy. You cannot talk of democracy without citizens participation. Democracy survives on active participation of the people. The strategic documents will identify policies that promote the relationship between government and the people,” she said.