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  • Landscape architecture: Solution to unplanned cities, says Williams

    Landscape architecture: Solution to unplanned cities, says Williams

    •    How UNILAG keyed into it
    •      Why the field is highly sought after

    Landscape architecture is a developing field in Nigeria that focuses on integrating human development with nature to address environmental issues like flooding, erosion, and urban heat. Education in the field is growing, as the University of Lagos is set to admit its first set of students into the newly created Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design in 2026. In this engagement with ASSISTANT EDITOR EMMANUEL BADEJO, Dr. Fadera Williams, a lecturer, first home-grown landscape architect, and Vice President, Society of Landscape Architects of Nigeria (SLAN), speaks on sustainable design and the place of landscape architecture in human wellbeing and the built environment.

    Can you share the story of how you became Nigeria’s first home-grown landscape architect?

    In Nigeria, the landscape architecture program started at the University of Lagos and the Ahmadu Bello University around the same time. The way I ended up being the first homegrown landscape architect was interesting. In the class of four students in the Department of Architecture, University of Lagos, by the end of the study session in the 2010/2011 session since 2008/2009 session when we were admitted, I was the only one ready to graduate among my classmates, and the then Head of the Department, Prof. Mike Adebamowo, categorically stated that I must not be held back but allowed to proceed to graduate because I represented 25 percent of the class.

    This was how I emerged as the first homegrown landscape architect at the University of Lagos and consequently in the whole of Nigeria (ABU graduated their first set later) and by extension West Africa, to my knowledge. Other landscape architects in Nigeria, before me, were trained internationally in universities in Western countries.

    What inspired you to choose landscape architecture at a time when the field was almost unknown in Nigeria?

    I was a botany graduate from the University of Ibadan, and at that time, I had developed an interest in a combination of botanical or plant science interests and a concern for the urban environment — climate change, city greening, and practical environmental solutions. In fact, I was practicing as a garden designer, and I then learned of a course known as landscape design from the internet. When I further researched it, I discovered that there was also landscape architecture, and this would help me to have a competitive advantage because I would be able to work with architectural and construction firms.

    After all, since I already had a robust knowledge of plants and garden design, this would now help me to actually be able to interpret construction drawings, offer landscape site plans, and design services.  I also saw landscape architecture as a way to connect science (plants, ecosystems) to cities and people — and to use design to reduce environmental problems like erosion and carbon emissions. However, since I discovered that the course was offered at the Department of Architecture, University of Lagos, I was overjoyed and I enrolled in it.

    Looking back, what has been the most fulfilling aspect of being the first home-grown landscape architect in Nigeria?

    For me, it has been the opportunity to inspire the ones coming after me that it is possible to be successful as a landscape architect, and also the platform for teaching and mentoring. I have served and continue to serve as an associate lecturer in the Department of Architecture, University of Lagos as well as being involved with community environmental program activities such as the EkoGreenDream Initiative as well as several tree-planting, climate ambassadors programs and several other community projects, and being able to influence policy and public awareness — for example serving as an environment ambassador and leading community greening initiatives and influencing policy where Green Skills in Lagos State Technical Colleges are concerned.

    How would you define landscape architecture in simple terms?

    Landscape architecture is the architecture of the outdoors. Just as building architecture or traditional architecture is concerned with the design of indoor spaces and the character of each space can be determined as a place once you venture into the place, so also, the landscape architect is involved in the design and planning of outdoor spaces — parks, streetscapes, gardens and urban green systems — combining ecology, planting, engineering and design to make places that are functional, beautiful, resilient and healthy for people and nature. I like to call landscape architects environmental doctors because, beyond aesthetics and beauty, which is subjective to individual intellection, landscape architecture actually solves environmental problems such as coastal erosion, gully erosion, desertification, land degradation, and so on.

    How does landscape architecture differ from traditional architecture, and why is it essential for Nigeria and West Africa?

    Traditional (building) architecture focuses on structures — the form and function of buildings. Landscape architecture focuses on the outdoor environment around and between buildings: green infrastructure, water management, public spaces, biodiversity, and microclimate.  Because landscape architecture deals with the environment, the international standard for the construction process in the built environment is actually multidisciplinary, involving the landscape architect at the beginning of the process.

    The reason is that the landscape architect knows the climatic conditions and weather patterns of the landscape on which the building construction is to be situated, like the direction of the sun, wind, and how to take advantage of nature to build in a sustainable way that will take advantage of natural light, and so on.

    In Nigeria and West Africa as a whole, this is essential because well-designed landscapes can: reduce urban flooding by managing storm water; lower urban heat through tree canopy and green cover; improve air quality and public health; and provide social and recreational spaces that strengthen communities. Integrating landscape thinking into urban planning helps address both climate and livability challenges.

    How has the field evolved globally, and what lessons can Nigeria and West Africa learn?

    Globally, landscape architecture is clearly about environmental solutions. Unfortunately, many believe that it is all about ornamental gardens. Global trends in landscape architecture reveal that it is highly instrumental in building multifunctional, climate-resilient urban systems (green infrastructure, ecosystem services, climate adaptation).

    Landscape architects today have a seat at every table where environmental discourses are held. The lessons Nigeria and West Africa can learn include the prioritization of multi-purpose green spaces (stormwater + recreation), developing local plant palettes and maintenance models, and embedding landscape thinking into planning and policy rather than treating it as an afterthought. There is a need for country-specific landscape charters and integration of landscape goals into national planning.

    In what ways can landscape architecture address Nigeria’s pressing challenges, such as urban flooding, climate change, and poor city planning?

    As per urban flooding, the use of bioswales, permeable surfaces, retention basins, and thoughtful grading reduces runoff and protects drainage systems. Concerning climate change & heat: tree canopy, green roofs, and strategic planting reduce urban heat islands and sequester carbon. Lastly, in order to improve our approach to city planning, landscape architects can bring a systems view — linking transport, public space, water, and ecosystems — to make cities more livable and resilient. It is important to note that a precautionary approach to planning is very important, and this is the specialty of landscape architecture.

    Can you give examples of projects in Nigeria where landscape architecture has made a clear difference?

    Nigeria actually has some very notable places shaped by landscape architects, though, because the profession was little known until recently, many projects were historically credited only to architects, planners, or engineers. Still, there are landmark cases where landscape architects had a strong hand, especially in tackling erosion, coastal protection, and resort/tourism design. Some of them include Bar Beach / Eko Atlantic, Lagos; Obudu Cattle Ranch & Mountain Resort, Cross River State; UNILAG Campus Landscaping, Lagos; Tinapa Resort, Calabar, Cross River State.

    What will the inauguration of the Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design at UNILAG translate to?

    The new department of Landscape Architecture & Urban Design (University of Lagos)

    On the 26th of August, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, a heartfelt desire of mine and many other landscape architects in Nigeria was fulfilled– The University of Lagos (UNILAG) officially inaugurated its Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design under the newly established Faculty of Architecture, marking a historic step in advancing sustainable design education in Nigeria.

    A journey of several years has now come to fruition. Our very own department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design at the University of Lagos, Nigeria, has been inaugurated. What this means is that we would now have undergraduate courses in landscape architecture and urban design, and we would be able to produce landscape architects with a BLa Degree.

    How do you see this department shaping the future of the profession in Nigeria?

    It will produce more locally trained professionals; foster research relevant to West African contexts (native plants, tropical storm water, maintenance models); and create a critical mass for professional bodies and regulation. Over time, it should improve standards of practice and make landscape input routine in planning and development approvals.

    What role will this department play in equipping the next generation of landscape architects for both local and international relevance?

    By combining local ecological knowledge with international best practice, the department can graduate professionals who understand West African ecosystems, cultural expectations, and infrastructure realities — while also meeting global standards for design, sustainability, and professional practice.

    How can academia and practice collaborate to make the profession more impactful?

    Collaboration ideas (and those reflected in the sector’s calls to action) include: industry placements and internships; joint research on local maintenance and funding models; practitioner-led studios tackling real projects; policy labs to draft landscape charters; and continuing professional development that links graduates to practising firms.

    What advice would you give to young students considering joining this new department?

    I would welcome every young person who loves nature or is curious about how nature can be used to solve environmental problems to join. I would advise them to embrace both science (ecology, horticulture) and design skills. Also, they should attempt to get practical experience early (site work, planting, construction) if possible, and lastly be ready to advocate — the profession still needs public education and policy uptake.

    Why is landscape architecture highly sought after today?

    I like to say that landscape architecture is a profession of the now and a profession of the future. The reason is that the environmental challenges that anthropogenic activities have caused are predicted to cause the greatest impacts in the near future. Also, because cities now need solutions that combine resilient infrastructure, human well-being, biodiversity, and climate adaptation, landscape architects work at that intersection. The profession delivers measurable ecosystem and social benefits, which make it strategically valuable for governments, developers, and communities.

    What are the prospects for young Nigerian and West African professionals entering this field?

    The prospects are encouraging: demand will grow as cities invest in climate adaptation, green infrastructure, and quality public spaces. New academic programmes (like UNILAG’s department), expanding professional societies (SLAN), and regional networks mean more opportunities in practice, consultancy, research, and policy. Success will rely on adaptable skills, local ecological knowledge, and the ability to work across disciplines.

  • Oyo stakeholders seek special welfare scheme for Amotekun operatives

    Oyo stakeholders seek special welfare scheme for Amotekun operatives

    • …as Oyo Assembly holds PLS inquiry on Amotekun law

    Stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, policymakers, and legal practitioners in Oyo State, have urged the state House of Assembly to introduce a Special Welfare Scheme for officers and operatives of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, Amotekun, to enhance effective and efficient service delivery.

    They made the call on Thursday during the Post Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) inquiry on the Oyo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun) Law, 2020, held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan.

    The programme, organised in collaboration with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), focuses on reviewing existing laws through PLS inquiry to determine whether amendments or repeals are necessary to strengthen implementation.

    Representing the Speaker, the Majority Leader, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin, said the PLS platform provides an opportunity to introduce fresh ideas not captured in the existing legislation.

    He assured that all submissions, suggestions, and memoranda by invited stakeholders would be carefully considered in the interest of improving enforcement for the benefit of citizens and residents of the state.

    Read Also: Tinubu orders Matawalle’s relocation to Kebbi over school abduction

    In his presentation, the Chairman of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, AIG Sikiru Akande, commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

    He highlighted the establishment of the Amotekun law and the acquisition of two surveillance aircraft to secure farmlands and forest reserves as clear demonstrations of this commitment.

    Akande noted that the improved relationship between Amotekun and the Nigerian Police Force has enhanced information sharing and intelligence gathering.

    Supporting his position, the agency’s Commandant, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (rtd), appealed to the House of Assembly to approve a 300 per cent severance allowance for operatives who have served between eight and ten years.

    He revealed that the agency has lost 17 officers and proposed a N2.5 million benchmark as death benefits for operatives who die in active service.

    Speaking on behalf of the Soun of Ogbomoso, Aseyin of Iseyin, and Eleruwa of Eruwa, the Abese of Ogbomoso, Chief Kasali Yusuf, applauded late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Governor Seyi Makinde for championing the acceptance of Amotekun across South-West states.

    The monarchs urged the Assembly to adopt the Special Welfare Scheme, saying it would significantly motivate operatives.

    They also called on local government chairmen to provide functional offices to aid effective policing.

    They further appealed to the agency’s leadership to maintain cordial relationships with federal security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering and operational synergy.

    In her remarks, the coordinator of the PLS Unit, Mrs. Aderonke Ogundeji, commended Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin and the lawmakers for establishing the PLS Unit—describing it as the first of its kind in any legislative arm of government in Nigeria.

    She noted that with support from WFD and NILDS, the pilot PLS Unit is ready to share its expertise with other State Assemblies to strengthen law-making and legislative oversight.

    She encouraged continued collaboration with academia, research institutes, and civil society organisations to enrich the inquiry and future reviews.

  • Nigeria leverages zero-piracy record, blue-economy reforms in bid for IMO council seat

    Nigeria leverages zero-piracy record, blue-economy reforms in bid for IMO council seat

    Nigeria has intensified its diplomatic efforts to secure a seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, banking on its four-year zero-piracy record and ongoing blue-economy reforms to gain support ahead of next week’s election.

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, on Thursday made a direct appeal to more than 150 delegations during a high-level diplomatic lunch at the IMO headquarters in London, framing Nigeria’s maritime achievements as central to its Category C bid.

    Oyetola told ambassadors and maritime policymakers that Nigeria’s quest for Category C membership is rooted in measurable contributions to global shipping security and economic stability.

    He stressed that the country’s transformation of the Gulf of Guinea—once regarded as a global piracy hotspot—now stands as one of the world’s most notable maritime security turnarounds.

    “Nigeria is not just a contender but a country whose actions in maritime security, environmental responsibility, and blue-economy reforms have directly advanced global seaborne trade,” he said, adding that the nation’s candidature rests on “tangible achievements rather than promises.”

    Citing International Maritime Bureau data, the minister reaffirmed that Nigeria has recorded zero piracy incidents in its waters in the last four years.

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    He credited the milestone to regional cooperation and the Deep Blue Project, which he described as decisive in curbing maritime crime, safeguarding international shipping, and boosting confidence among seafarers, insurers, and investors.

    Maritime analysts say Nigeria’s improved security profile has already led to reduced insurance premiums, increased investor confidence, and a gradual rise in shipping traffic—benefits the country hopes to expand with a seat on the IMO Council.

    Oyetola assured IMO delegates that Nigeria’s policies align with the organisation’s long-term priorities, particularly in port efficiency, sustainable ocean industries, and enhanced environmental safeguards.

    He emphasised that Nigeria’s bid “seeks to strengthen partnerships rather than prestige,” acknowledging the IMO’s role in shaping fair and predictable global shipping rules.

    The minister urged member states to grant Nigeria their “trust, friendship, and votes,” noting that the country is committed to advancing safety, security, environmental stewardship, and maritime development on the global stage.

    “The seas unite us far more than they divide us,” he told delegates.

    The minister also used the platform to express solidarity with countries recently affected by hurricanes and natural disasters in the Caribbean and the Philippines, stressing that global maritime cooperation “must be underpinned by compassion and unity.”

    With broad goodwill reportedly building around Nigeria’s campaign, expectations are rising ahead of the Friday, 28 November vote, where the country hopes to return to the IMO Council and strengthen its influence in global maritime governance.

  • Tinubu, Ooni, Sanwo-Olu to grace Ewi of Ado-Ekiti’s 35th coronation

    Tinubu, Ooni, Sanwo-Olu to grace Ewi of Ado-Ekiti’s 35th coronation

    President Bola Tinubu, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, are among the dignitaries expected at the 35th coronation anniversary and 80th birthday celebration of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe.

    Speaking at a news conference at the Ewi’s Palace, the Global President of the Ado Progressive Union, Prince Segun Famuagun, announced that Governor Sanwo-Olu will serve as chief launcher, while Senator Ibikunle Amosun will act as co-launcher. The Ooni of Ife will attend as the Royal Father of the Day.

    Prince Famuagun said the week-long celebration will include the disbursement of N100,000 bursaries to 50 indigent students of Ekiti origin.

    He noted that the five-day programme is designed to highlight the monarch’s contributions to the growth of Ado-Ekiti and the development of Ekiti State.

    Activities lined up include homage by groups and chiefs, a football match on Wednesday, and a Thursday colloquium themed “The Impact of Royal Fathers in Ado Community.” The event will also feature scholarship presentations.

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    According to him, academics from Ekiti State University will speak on the history of Ado-Ekiti and the impact of Oba Adejugbe’s 35-year reign.

    He added that scholarship recipients were selected through a rigorous process conducted in partnership with the Ekiti State Scholarship Board. Outstanding WAEC and GCE candidates, as well as winners of the essay competition, will also be honoured on Thursday.

    The festivities will begin with a Jumat service at the central mosque, followed by a photo exhibition and a drama presentation at the palace. The drama will chronicle the monarch’s life from ascension to the throne to his development over the years.

    On Saturday, the monarch’s royal book will be launched, alongside the conferment of chieftaincy titles on distinguished sons, daughters, and friends of Ado-Ekiti.

    The celebration will climax on Sunday with a thanksgiving service at St. Emmanuel’s Cathedral, Okesha, followed by a grand reception at the palace.

  • TBS management set to foster tourism, uphold heritage

    TBS management set to foster tourism, uphold heritage

    The Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Management Board is set to foster tourism and uphold Nigeria’s heritage with the completion of the restoration and beautification of the Independence Memorial Obelisk in Lagos.

    During the unveiling of the restored monument, the Managing Director of TBS, Mrs Lucia Shittu, said the initiative was inspired by concerns raised by visitors over the absence of the Nigerian flag at the iconic site where the nation declared independence in 1960.

    “Tafawa Balewa Square has been a historic symbol of Nigeria’s independence and democracy, being the location where the Union Jack was lowered and the Nigerian flag was first hoisted. An obelisk adorned with carvings of the pioneer leaders proudly stands on this site. Furthermore, the square hosts the annual memorial service honouring the sacrifices of our armed forces,” she said.

    Mrs Shittu said that the restoration aligns with the Federal Government’s broader development goals.

    “Under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have prioritised the restoration of this site, aligning with Agenda 7 of the 8-point agenda to accelerate diversification through industrialisation, digitisation, creative arts, manufacturing, and innovation,” she said.

    She added that the project was made possible through a partnership with Lafarge Africa, which contributed to the initiative as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts.

    “With the successful completion of the park’s first development phase, we are looking forward to the Remembrance Arcade’s redevelopment, set for completion in the first quarter of 2026,” she said.

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    Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Olajumoke Oduwole, said the Presidency remains committed to preserving national heritage as part of efforts to strengthen social cohesion.

    She said the administration’s focus on heritage restoration reflects its broader commitment to stability and unity.

    “Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria’s long and storied history. This is symbolic because through this we are restoring what put us together as a nation,” she said.

  • Cole Palmer suffers new injury, set to miss three matches

    Cole Palmer suffers new injury, set to miss three matches

    Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer has broken a toe in an accident at home, sidelining him for the club’s next three fixtures against Burnley, Barcelona and Arsenal.

    The England midfielder had been nearing a return from the groin injury he sustained in September. 

    However, on Friday, head coach Enzo Maresca revealed that Palmer has now suffered an unexpected setback due to the freak incident. 

    Read Also: EPL: Cole Palmer scores four as Chelsea beat Brighton

    “Unfortunately, he had an accident at home where he hit his toe but it is nothing important – but he won’t be back in the next week,” Maresca said.

    When asked how long Palmer could now be missing, Maresca added: “We don’t know. [His toe] It’s fractured.

    “The only thing we know: he is not available for this week and next week.”

  • Report uncovers leadership gaps, seeks 35% women’s representation

    Report uncovers leadership gaps, seeks 35% women’s representation

    WILAN Global has raised fresh concerns over the state of women’s inclusion in governance and corporate leadership following the release of its maiden State of Women’s Leadership in Nigeria report.

    Unveiled alongside the next phase of the organisation’s MsRepresented advocacy campaign, the report presents a stark picture of persistent gender imbalance across public and private institutions, despite long-standing commitments under the National Gender Policy.

    Speaking at the launch, Founder and Executive Director of WILAN Global, Abosede George-Ogan, described Nigeria’s leadership landscape as “a study in contrasts,” noting that while women drive growth in families, communities, and key sectors, they remain largely absent from decision-making spaces.

    “Women are powering households, businesses, and frontline services, yet they are missing where decisions are shaped. The issue is not capability; it is the systems that restrict access,” she said.

    Of the 469 members of the 10th National Assembly, only 21 are women—just 4.5 per cent, one of the lowest rates in Africa. Cabinet figures follow the same pattern, with eight women among 48 ministers and 10 women out of 34 presidential advisers, far below the 35 per cent benchmark Nigeria committed to.

    Across the 36 states, women occupy 49 of 988 seats in state assemblies. While some states, such as Kwara—where women make up 46 per cent of the cabinet—along with Ekiti, Oyo, Taraba, Anambra, and Kaduna, show progress, most remain in single digits.

    Fifteen states currently have female Chief Judges, in addition to a woman serving as the Chief Justice of Nigeria. Women also hold nearly a third of positions at the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal.

    Out of 811 local government chairpersons nationwide, only 41 are women. In councillorship positions, women hold just 604 of 8,773 seats. Southern states such as Akwa Ibom and Cross River perform better, while some northern states have no female councillors at all.

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    Women hold 31 per cent of board seats across the top 50 companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), yet only five of these firms have female board chairs. Financial institutions lead due to regulatory pressure, while sectors like oil and gas, technology, and utilities continue to lag.

    The report also highlights stark disparities in health and education, where women dominate frontline roles but remain excluded from senior leadership as cultural norms, entrenched biases, and structural barriers persist.

    WILAN Board Member, Nafisa Atiku-Adejuwon, said the data should spur urgent reforms.

    “Women are not underperforming; they are underrepresented. The data gives leaders a benchmark to act decisively,” she said.

    WILAN Global urged federal and state governments, private sector leaders, and political actors to treat the 35 per cent quota as a minimum requirement to strengthen inclusion and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s female population.

  • Norrenberger Pensions grows client base to 164,619, revenue hits ₦2.5b

    Norrenberger Pensions grows client base to 164,619, revenue hits ₦2.5b

    Norrenberger Pensions Limited has announced its financial performance for the 2024 financial year.

    It has expanded its Retirement Savings Account (RSA) client base to 164,619 and recorded a 31 per cent rise in total income, which reached ₦2.51 billion.

    The company stated that the results underscore its resilience and sustained market growth, despite Nigeria’s challenging macroeconomic conditions.

    Speaking at the company’s 13th Annual General Meeting, Chairman of the Board Ibrahim Aliyu Bala said that 2024 was shaped by global inflationary pressures, tight monetary conditions, and geopolitical uncertainties, while Nigeria continued to adjust to the removal of fuel subsidies and ongoing foreign exchange reforms.

    Despite this tough operating environment, he said Norrenberger Pensions closed the year with an 18.54 per cent increase in Assets Under Management (AUM).

    Bala added that the company’s rebranded Personal Pension Plan (PPP) would be a major growth driver going forward, particularly in expanding pension penetration in the informal sector.

    He expressed appreciation to shareholders, regulators, clients, and staff, stating that their collective commitment continues to reinforce the firm’s long-term growth trajectory.

    Managing Director/CEO of Norrenberger Pensions, Mrs. Bolanle Onotu, described the 2024 financial year as one that tested the company’s resilience, citing inflationary pressures, currency volatility, and rising operating costs.

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    Nonetheless, she said the company delivered measurable improvements in key indicators.

    Operating expenses grew by only 6 per cent—from ₦1.67 billion to ₦1.77 billion—due to deliberate cost-optimisation measures.

    This efficiency supported a sharp rise in profitability, with Profit Before Tax (PBT) surging by 209 per cent to ₦741 million, from ₦240 million recorded in 2023.

    Mrs. Onotu highlighted increased investments in technology and staff capacity-building, including the deployment of a modern 3CX call centre, upgraded cybersecurity systems, enhancements to the mobile app, and internal automation projects.

    She commended the regulatory reforms introduced by the new PenCom Director-General, who assumed office in July 2024, describing the reforms as crucial to industry stability and operational clarity.

    Looking ahead, she said 2025 offers new opportunities, particularly through the rebranded PPP aimed at expanding pension adoption in the informal and semi-formal sectors.

    She thanked the Board, management, regulators, and clients, noting that the company is well-positioned to sustain growth and contribute to Nigeria’s evolving pension landscape.

    In his remarks, the Managing Director/CEO of Norrenberger Financial Group, Tony Edeh, expressed appreciation to the company’s regulators and auditors for what he described as invaluable collaboration and oversight.

    He said their guidance has strengthened governance structures and improved operational quality.

    Edeh also commended staff across the organisation, praising their dedication and professionalism.

    He reaffirmed the group’s continued support for Norrenberger Pensions’ long-term strategic direction, adding that the collective efforts of the team continue to drive the company’s growth and its ability to deliver on its mandate to clients.

  • Family Booster Ministry holds Lagos singles, married conference Nov 30

    Family Booster Ministry holds Lagos singles, married conference Nov 30

    Family Booster Ministry will hold this year’s Lagos Singles and Married Conference (LSMC) on Sunday, November 30 at the Basketball Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

      The Conference, which is targeted at singles and married, has as its theme: ‘Kingdom marriage.’

    According to the convener, Pastor Bisi Adewale, it is another time to rejuvenate relationships and marriages, stressing that some unions are on the verge of collapsing.

    He noted that the economic situations in the country have affected marriages, where both husbands and wives are unable to meet the family needs.

    Adewale however said this year’s conference will beam search light on the sustainability of marriages and relationships, especially at this time.

    Read Also: Adeboye to pray for singles, waiting mothers, families

    He said sound doctrinal messages needed for this period would be released into the lives of participants.

    He informed that several ministers of the gospel, including him, have been lined up to bless participants. 

    Other expected ministers include gospel artists such as Tosin Bee; Kemi Arowojolu and Pastor Yomi Adewale, among others.

      Adewale urged participants to come with expectations of receiving directions from God on their lives.

      The programme starts by 2pm while the red carpet begin by 1pm.

  • Lagos showcases climate leadership, investment outcomes at COP30 in Brazil

    Lagos showcases climate leadership, investment outcomes at COP30 in Brazil

    The Lagos State Government, through the Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE), has reaffirmed its position as a continental leader in climate action following a successful series of high-level engagements at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in São Paulo, Brazil.

    Across three impactful sessions from November 6 to 8, Lagos showcased its flagship initiatives like the 80 Million Clean Cookstoves Initiative, LAMATA’s e-Mobility Programme, demonstrating how subnational governments can attract global capital to drive inclusive, measurable climate progress.

    Speaking on Lagos State’s agenda and outcomes, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titi Oshodi, emphasised the State’s catalytic leadership.

    “Lagos went to COP30 to demonstrate what true subnational leadership looks like. We are proving that African cities can build bankable climate solutions at scale—solutions that are inclusive, investable, and capable of transforming millions of lives. The world is looking for climate ambition backed by action, and Lagos is stepping forward with both.

    “Lagos’ active presence at COP30 strengthened global partnerships, deepened investor confidence, and positioned the State as a model for how African cities can translate climate vision into bankable, people-centred projects,” she said.

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    Oshodi also disclosed that “The Lagos Private Roundtable, themed Financing Urban Climate Solutions for a Just and Inclusive Transition, brought together development finance institutions, philanthropic organizations, and private-sector investors.

    “Discussions focused on co-financing pathways, de-risking instruments, and innovative financing structures that can scale Lagos’ green investments.

    “Key investment outcomes from Lagos’ COP30 participation include commitments to advance feasibility and financing discussions for clean cooking projects, interest in co-developing e-mobility pilot corridors with private investors, and exploratory talks with international partners on green bond issuances under the Lagos Climate Finance Framework.”

    The Africa Innovation Forum, co-curated by OCCE and Climate Action, spotlighted Lagos as a leading voice among African cities advancing climate innovation. Panelists, including Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titi Oshodi; Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, President and CEO of Oando Clean Energy, Demola Ogunbanjo, and Senior Manager, Climate Business Department at International Finance Corporation, Diep Nguyen-van Houtte, shared insights on subnational financing of State-Determined Contributions (SDCs) and the emerging role of African cities as investment-ready climate champions. The panel was moderated, Climate Entrepreneurship & Ecosystems, Climate KIC, Christian Daube.

    At the Dealroom Session, Lagos connected its ambitious project pipeline to global investors and development partners. The session generated strong expressions of interest from financiers focused on scalable clean energy and circular economy solutions.

    Under the visionary leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Lagos continues to set the pace for African cities in aligning climate ambition with investment readiness. Speaking after the sessions, Mrs. Titi Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, emphasised Lagos’ role as a pioneer in Africa’s just transition movement.