Category: City Beats

  • Family, friends celebrate Aikhomú’s wife at 85

    Family, friends celebrate Aikhomú’s wife at 85

    Despite the downpour yesterday morning, family members and well-wishers converged on the Church of Pentecost, Anglican Communion in FESTAC Town, Lagos to celebrate the 85th birthday the wife of the late military Vice President, Admiral Augustus Aikhomu, Mrs Rebecca Aikhomu

    Admiral Aikhomu, who died in 2011, served as deputy to Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.

    At the special service  Mrs.  Aikhomu, some members of the congregation described her as a virtuous woman with a big heart towards humanity.

    According to guests, she has remained a shining light, touching so many people in remarkable ways.

    In his homily, the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, Rev James Olusola Odedeji, said Mrs. Aikhomu has been a selfless woman who found fulfillment in making positive impacts in the lives of others.

    Wishing her long life in good health, the Bishop urged the Matriarch to continue to lead a good life with heaven as her focus.

    The clergyman while commending Dame Aikhomu for her good works including being a benefactor to the church, advised that she remains steadfast in the service to God and humanity.

    Read Also: Aikhomu’s wife, others bag honour

    He advised those at the gathering to emulate the celebrator and lead worthy lives.

    One of Mrs. Aikhomu’s daughters, Benita Nimmyel, while thanking God for keeping her alive, said it was a joyous day for the family.

    “It’s a thing of joy. She’s had a few challenges- losing her husband and her son- and then being here today of sound mind…it’s a wonderful celebration for all of us.

    “I was a bit skeptical about the service being on a Monday morning but seeing the turnout of people here in spite of the rain is a testament of the kind of person she is.

    “She is a mother to all of us and so, we’re very thankful for today and we bless God for his hand of faithfulness over her life.

    “My mother has a big heart. She has a heart for everybody. She’s patient beyond measure. I am still a work in progress. That patience is one thing I haven’t inherited yet and I am hoping God will give me the grace to have the kind of patience he blessed her with,” she added.

    Appreciating those who honoured her, the octogenarian admonished them to be God-fearing and be in Christ, adding that the Lord sees everything.

    The security chiefs in Lagos, including Police Commissioner (CP) Olohundare Jimoh, Commander 9 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Olawale Oyekola and Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, Commodore Paul Nimmyel, were among guests at the service.

  • FCTA PHCs now operate 24 hours, says Health Mandate secretary

    FCTA PHCs now operate 24 hours, says Health Mandate secretary

    • ’Renewable energy to become main source of power supply soon’

    Primary Health Care (PHC) centres in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) now operate 24 hours following the construction of twin semi-detached one-bedroom bungalows in the facilities by the Nyesom Wike-led FCT Administration.

    Mandate Secretary (Commissioner) of Health Services & Environment in the FCT, Adedolapo Fasawe, made this known in a statement at the weekend.

    Fasawe, who also said renewable energy would soon become the main energy source in the FCTA-owned hospitals, said the FCT Renewed Hope Missions in Kuje and Bwari area councils treated over 10,000 patients and performed 225 free surgeries.

    According to the mandate secretary, the health infrastructure upgrade, including the provision of fully functional oxygen plants in FCTA  hospitals in Maitama, Asokoro, Bwari and Abaji is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.She listed the establishment of a  20-bed Vesico-Vaginal Fistula Centre at Gwarinpa Hospital and tripling of FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) annual health insurance enrolment as other achievements of the FCTA. She said: ‘’The building of several twin semi-detached One-bedroom bungalows in Primary Health Care facilities has led to these PHC facilities to now operate for 24 hours per day.“Efforts are ongoing to make renewable energy the main electric power source for the FCTA-owned hospitals and other health establishments.  “After the assessment of   FCT health managers, staff changes were made. These changes yielded outstanding results. The FHIS tripled the yearly enrolment in health insurance.

    “By clearing billions of naira in outstanding debt to health insurance providers, the Wike-led FCT administration has restored confidence in the system and ensured the continuity of services.

    “Also, massive awareness drives for more insurance enrolment are being conducted.

    “The FCT administration has made available funds to provide free enrolment for the vulnerable.”

    Read Also: Brain drain in health sector driven by poor remuneration, working conditions – Fidson MD Felis Ayebae

    “The Presidential Priorities Ministerial deliverable of achieving 25,000 new Health Insurance enrollees annually was surpassed by 85 per cent, thus significantly increasing the population that has access to quality health care.”

    According to her,  the enrolment of pregnant women and indigents into the    FHIS,   coupled with the distribution of delivery kits, nets and nutritional packs to people living with HIV/AIDS, underscores the administration’s commitment to maternal and child health as well as HIV/AIDS care.

    Fasawe said the FCT exceeded its target by 40,000 in the nationwide project of 10 million that screened for abnormal blood sugar and pressure readings.

    According to her, the leadership of Wike in the Renewed Hope Medical Palliative Initiative at Gwarinpa Hospital provided free drugs and essential commodities, thus bringing relief to 1,200 vulnerable patients.

    She added, “The renovation and furnishing of 43 call rooms have made working after office hours (call duty) by health workers more conducive,” she added.

    The Health Mandate Secretary stated that the establishment of a public health emergency operations centre had enhanced the FCT’s preparedness to control disease outbreaks and epidemics.

    “Procurement of trolleys for Accident and Emergency Units and repair and replacement of hospital equipment have all contributed to a more efficient and responsive healthcare system,” she stated.

    Her words:  “Efforts in dispensing over 2,000 free reading glasses during World Sight Day and Medical Missions have improved the quality of life for many.

    “The reorganisation of the Primary Health Care Board, funding their activities, securing second place and winning $400,000 in the PHC Leadership Challenge 2024, has resulted in improved service delivery, such as the increase of the fully immunised child rate from 41  to 46 per cent.

    “On completion of the renovation and upgrade of the House Officers’ Quarters at Garki Hospital, it will be the critical step to get accreditation to increase the House officers’ training slots from 60 to 120.

      “The completion of the process that elevated the FCT School of Nursing and Midwifery to a College of Nursing, which included equipment and infrastructural upgrade, has led to the improved quality and standard of learning and education for the students.

    “Strengthening of the Medical Residency training, with recruitment of resident doctors and payment of residency training fund, has led to outstanding performance in the residency examinations with a 60% increase in pass rate and winning awards as best candidates.”

    She said as part of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, FCTA   cleared three to six months’ salary arrears of health workers engaged in 2023.

    According to her,  new resident doctors have been engaged, adding that Wike approved the recruitment of 315 health workers in the first tranche.

     Fasawe added, “Ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects have improved accessibility to health facilities. The administration is also conducting medical missions in rural areas to serve vulnerable populations.“All FCT-owned hospitals now have electronic medical record systems. Revenue collection is also electronic.”

  • Gunmen abduct AAUA faculty staff in Ondo

    Gunmen abduct AAUA faculty staff in Ondo

    A staff member of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Mr. Omoniyi Eleyinmi has been reportedly abducted by gunmen at his residence in Supare-Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

     Eleyinmi, who serves as the Faculty Officer in the Faculty of Education and member of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), was kidnapped on Monday evening shortly after returning from work.

    According to a Save-Our-Soul message shared by a senior lecturer of the institution, who requested anonymity, the gunmen stormed Eleyinmi’s residence along the Akungba-Supare road around 7:00 p.m., shooting sporadically to scare away residents before abducting him. 

    “One of our SSANU members, Mr. Omoniyi Eleyinmi was kidnapped at his residence this evening at Supare-Akoko. He had just returned from work when the incident occurred,” the lecturer stated.

    Read Also: AAUA: Police to extend school protection squad to Ondo tertiary institutions

    The victim’s wife, who narrowly escaped the attack, said her husband was not at home when the assailants initially arrived in commando style. 

    She revealed that the kidnappers were still at the premises, firing gunshots, when Eleyinmi returned, only to be seized and taken away immediately.

    Spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, Olayinka Ayanlade, when contacted via phone, said he could not immediately confirm the incident but promised to get back over the development. 

    Ayanlade, a deputy superintendent of police, was yet to get back as of the time of going to bed with the report. 

  • Women’s rights group decries Sowore’s attack on female cops

    Women’s rights group decries Sowore’s attack on female cops

    Women’s advocacy group, HerRights Watch, has condemned what it described as “a calculated, misogynistic and false campaign” by SaharaReporters Publisher, Omoyele Sowore, to demonise women in the Nigeria Police Force, especially those serving in the office of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

    The group described the article recently published by SaharaReporters, which sought to scandalise female officers, especially ACP Bukola Kuti and DSP David Victoria, as “a shameless, sexist smear built on malicious gossip rather than credible journalism.”

    The Convener of HerRights Watch, Onyinye Eze, in a strongly worded statement, expressed dismay at the choice of Sowore to turn what is essentially an institutional issue of police promotions, which is even overwhelmingly skewed towards male officers, into a personal attack on a few women who have distinguished themselves in service just because he seeks to impress his paymasters who have enlisted him to attack the IGP consistently.

    “Is Sowore suggesting that women have no right to serve in sensitive positions or be recognised for their exceptional work and contributions to society? Is he implying that a woman’s competence and progress can only come through illicit means? That line of thinking is not only deeply offensive but also regressive and dangerous,” Eze said.

    “The criteria for accelerated promotion are well-established; for instance, any officer who wins the Police Service Merit Award on two occasions automatically qualifies. The lady in question followed the same process because she merited it. Furthermore, contrary to the misleading claims in the article, she has been in service for well over 10 years. Can anyone reasonably claim that the same IGP has been responsible for all her promotions over the years when she has only worked with him for less than two years?

    “As further proof of Sowore’s malicious intent, the report falsely alleged that the promotion list was skewed in favour of officers from the South West. However, a thorough review of the list shows that officers from the North Central were, in fact, the top beneficiaries of the exercise.”

    Read Also: JUST IN: Sowore leads protest of retired officers over pension entitlements

    Eze pointed out that although the majority of officers promoted by the Police Service Commission in the referenced list were men, Sowore chose to build his entire narrative around a handful of women, dragging their names in the mud without presenting verifiable facts.

    “This is not investigative journalism; this is misogyny wrapped in a failing attempt to undermine the leadership of the police by targeting women as easy scapegoats and collateral damage,” she said.

    She further challenged the credibility of the so-called “sources” relied on by SaharaReporters, noting that the article dripped with innuendos, insinuations and stereotypes that demean the dignity of women in uniform, adding that “You cannot claim to be fighting for justice or accountability when your own report is a textbook example of character assassination and gender profiling.”

    Eze called on Nigerians to reject the attempt to turn women into scapegoats in institutional controversies, adding that if the promotions in the Nigeria Police Force are flawed, the process can be addressed without maligning hardworking and deserving women who are caught in the web. She added that if male officers were promoted without merit, would Sowore insinuate they got there through sexual favours?

    In any case, it is on record IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has refused every attempt to encourage indiscriminate special accelerated promotion in spite of the humongous pressure from every quarter. Hence, he set up criteria, guidelines and a process for qualifying for a special promotion which was strictly adhered to on this matter.

    She advised other journalists and media platforms to be responsible and gender-sensitive in their reporting, calling on media regulatory bodies, the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian communication Commission and human rights institutions to investigate the defamatory content of the SaharaReporters article and protect women in public service from malicious attacks based on their gender.

    “We cannot allow this kind of journalistic recklessness to go unchallenged. It breeds a hostile environment for women and reinforces the culture of impunity, where men can say and write anything against women without consequences. Enough is enough,” she declared.

  • ‘Avoid what will lead you to jail,’ Justice Adejumo urges court support staff 

    ‘Avoid what will lead you to jail,’ Justice Adejumo urges court support staff 

    The Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI) and former President of the National Industrial Court (NIC) Justice Babatunde Adejumo (retired) has urged court support staff to avoid conduct that could earn them imprisonment.

    Justice Adejumo, who wondered why a court official would elect to trade the integrity of the judicial system for material gains, said it was more rewarding for judicial staff to remain faithful to the system.

    He spoke in Abuja during the opening ceremony of the 2025 hybrid national workshop on court process management for court support staff across the country.

    The week-long workshop, with the theme: “Building a stronger Judiciary through effectiveness,” is being attended by registrars, commissioners for oath, clerks, bailiffs, confidential secretaries, protocol and information officers, public relations officers, and all other administrative staff.

    Justice Adejumo, who noted that the event was his first official outing as the Administrator of the NJI, recalled past instances when court support staff were penalised for compromising the system.

    He said: “You must constantly bear in mind that the impression you create in the discharge of your duties, is often the first and lasting one that court users will continue to carry with them, and which will invariably shape their perception of the justice system. 

    “Hence, as vital enablers of justice, it behooves you to be diligent and to maintain a high standard of professionalism at all times. 

    “I must highlight the fundamental role that ethical conduct plays in bolstering public trust in the Judiciary. 

    “Thus, any form of impropriety, unethical conduct, or lapses in your behavior can have far-reaching consequences. 

    “To this end, you must consistently demonstrate integrity and desist from engaging in activities that may bring the Judiciary to disrepute. 

    “Also, as custodians of sensitive information and processes, you must consciously place a premium on accountability and confidentiality,” he said.

    Read Also: Court restrains Aiyedatiwa from appointing, installing monarch in Ondo community

    Justice Adejumo stressed the need for court support staff to be digital literate in view of the growing importance of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in court’s administration.

    The NJI Administrator noted that “more than ever before, the demands of modern justice administration require that you embrace innovation, maintain ethical standards, and deliver services with a keen sense of responsibility. 

    “Furthermore, you must recognize that digital transformation is rapidly redefining the landscape of judicial administration. 

    “From case tracking systems to electronic filing and record management, technology is now integral to judicial effectiveness.

    “Consequently, I encourage you to be receptive to these tools and to utilize them in enhancing your functions. 

    “In light of the foregoing, the programme for this Workshop has been carefully curated to include topics that deal with some of the germane issues raised above.

    “Over the next few days, seasoned Moderators and Resource Persons will be sharing their expertise and invaluable insights on Managing Court Calendars and Scheduling Hearings and Trials; Supporting Remote Hearings and Virtual Courtrooms; E-filing and Digital Record Keeping; the Code of Conduct for Court Employees of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and other key issues that are related to your functionalities. 

    “I therefore urge all participants, including those joining us virtually, to approach this engagement with purpose. 

    “Contribute actively, ask questions, exchange ideas and take full advantage of the knowledge being shared,” Justice Adejumo said.

  • Group urges FG to probe water resources ministry

    Group urges FG to probe water resources ministry

    The Civil Rights Advocates Network (CRAN) has urged the federal government to carry out forensic audits into the finances of the federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.

    Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Monday, the President of the group, Emmanuel Davidson, expressed concern over the reports alleging corruption in the ministry.

    He also urged a probe into the contract awarding process of the ministry, wondering why many critical water and sanitation projects are either abandoned or substandard.

    Read Also: Veterans barricade finance ministry over non-payment of entitlements

    “It is our solemn responsibility to ensure that every Nigerian is made aware of what is being done in their name—and with their resources—by individuals who ought to be agents of national transformation.

    “We call on the anti-corruption agencies, especially the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), to, as a matter of urgency, launch a full-scale forensic audit of the ministry.

    “Additionally, the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation must be mobilised to conduct a parallel audit of the Ministry’s books, while whistleblower protections must be activated to encourage more insiders to come forward with evidence of the rot festering under this administration.

  • Enugu CP vows crackdown on criminals, decorates 28 newly promoted officers

    Enugu CP vows crackdown on criminals, decorates 28 newly promoted officers

    The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has reiterated the command’s resolve to make the state a “no hiding place” for unrepentant criminals, stressing its commitment to proactive and strategic policing.

    Speaking on Monday, August 4, during the command’s monthly Strategic Policing Conference at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess, Agbani Road, Enugu, CP Giwa urged officers to redouble their efforts in ensuring public safety—especially as the “ember months” approach, a period often linked with rising criminal activities.

    The conference brought together top-ranking officers, including deputy and assistant commissioners, divisional police officers, and heads of tactical units.

    CP Giwa warned against negligence and unprofessional conduct, insisting that high standards of discipline and accountability must be upheld across all units.

    Read Also: 2027: Enugu and Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

    A major highlight of the event was the decoration of 28 newly promoted officers. Among them, David Adio Alalade was elevated from Assistant Commissioner to Deputy Commissioner of Police, while Bonny Odufu moved from Superintendent to Chief Superintendent. Four officers were promoted from Deputy Superintendent to Superintendent, and 22 were elevated from Inspector to Assistant Superintendent of Police.

    While congratulating the newly decorated officers, CP Giwa described their promotions as both a reward for excellence and a call to greater responsibility.

    “You will now be judged not just by your performance, but by the character and conduct you uphold,” he said.

    Speaking on behalf of the promoted officers, DCP Alalade thanked the Inspector-General of Police and the Police Service Commission for the opportunity, and expressed gratitude to the commissioner for his exemplary leadership. 

    He pledged that they would remain committed to the core values of the Nigeria Police Force and serve with integrity and renewed zeal.

  • Family, friends celebrate Aikhomu’s wife at 85

    Family, friends celebrate Aikhomu’s wife at 85

    Despite the heavy downpour on Monday morning, family members and well-wishers converged on the Church of Pentecost, Anglican Communion in FESTAC Town to celebrate the 85th birthday of the wife of late Admiral Augustus Aikhomu, a former vice president.

    Admiral Aikhomu, who died in 2011, served as deputy under military ruler Ibrahim Babangida.

    At the special church service organised to celebrate his wife, Mrs. Rebecca Aikhomu, attendees described her as a virtuous woman with a big heart towards humanity.

    According to guests, she has remained a shining light, touching so many people in remarkable ways.

    In his homily, the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, Rev James Olusola Odedeji, said Mrs. Aikhomu has been a selfless woman who found fulfilment in making positive impacts in the lives of others.

    Wishing her long life in good health, the Bishop urged the Matriarch to continue to lead a good life with heaven as her focus.

    The clergyman, while commending Dame Aikhomu for her good works, including being a benefactor to the church, advised that she remain steadfast in the service to God and humanity.

    He advised those at the gathering to emulate the celebrant and lead worthy lives.

    One of Mrs. Aikhomu’s daughters, Benita Nimmyel, while thanking God for keeping her alive, said it was a joyous day for the family.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails Dele Cole at 85, celebrates legacy in journalism, diplomacy

    “It’s a thing of joy. She’s had a few challenges- losing her husband and her son- and then being here today of sound mind…it’s a wonderful celebration for all of us.

    “I was a bit skeptical about the service being on a Monday morning, but seeing the turnout of people here in spite of the rain is a testament to the kind of person she is.

    “She is a mother to all of us, and so, we’re very thankful for today, and we bless God for his hand of faithfulness over her life.

    “My mother has a big heart. She has a heart for everybody. She’s patient beyond measure. I am still a work in progress. That patience is one thing I haven’t inherited yet, and I am hoping God will give me the grace to have the kind of patience he blessed her with,” she added.

    Appreciating all those who honoured her with their visit, the octogenarian admonished them to be God fearing and be in Christ, adding that the Lord sees everything.

    The Nation reports that security chiefs in Lagos, including Police Commissioner (CP) Olohundare Jimoh, Commander 9Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Olawale Oyekola and Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, Commodore Paul Nimmyel were among the guests at the thanksgiving service.

  • Foundation clears N600,000 hospital bill for twins of blind father in Imo

    Foundation clears N600,000 hospital bill for twins of blind father in Imo

     …rescues family after two months

    In a touching act of compassion, the Stand For Humanity Foundation has come to the aid of a blind father, Ndubuisi Duruaku, and his wife, Chiamaka, by settling a N600,000 hospital bill for the birth of their twin daughters.

    The couple had been stranded at TotalCare Hospital in Akwakuma, Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, for two months after being unable to pay for the Caesarean section through which the babies were delivered on June 1.

    Despite being medically discharged, the family remained in the hospital until August 1, when the foundation, led by journalist and philanthropist Chidiebube Okeoma, stepped in and raised the funds within 48 hours with the help of well-meaning Nigerians.

    Read Also: Foundation sensitises to Parkinson’s disease awareness, care

    Speaking to The Nation at the hospital, Okeoma described the family’s condition as heartbreaking but expressed gratitude that the situation ended in joy.

    “We are happy to announce that two-month-old twin girls, Akuyoma and Nwakaego Duruaku, held at TotalCare Hospital because of an outstanding delivery bill of N600,000, have been taken home by our organisation,” he said.

    In addition to settling the bill, the foundation provided the family with food supplies, baby formula, diapers, other provisions, and cash support. Okeoma also praised the hospital management for their patience and care, noting that the mother and babies had required eight units of blood following the surgery.

    The foundation further pledged to continue supporting the twins’ welfare, including their education. “When it is time for them to go to school, they will go to school,” Okeoma assured.

  • Efe Tommy marks 40th birthday, launches Kidney for Life Relief Foundation

    Efe Tommy marks 40th birthday, launches Kidney for Life Relief Foundation

    In a rare blend of elegance and meaning, renowned media personality and culture curator Efemena Adabamu, popularly known as Efe Tommy, marked his 40th birthday with more than a celebration.

    At the celebration held in Lagos, he officially launched The Kidney for Life Relief Foundation, a movement aimed at impacting the lives of people living with kidney issues.

    The foundation, shaped by his personal journey through kidney failure and a life-changing transplant, was the emotional highlight of the evening.

    Efe’s story is one to inspire after struggling with kidney issues for two years before a successful transplant at St. Nicholas’ Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria.

    This led to a celebration quickly and a powerful moment of reflection, a reminder of life’s fragility, resilience and the urgent need for support in Nigeria’s kidney health ecosystem.

     “The process of creating this foundation has been shaped by my own journey and a deep drive to make an impactful difference,” Efe Tommy shared during an emotional address to guests. “This isn’t just about me turning 40 alone; it is about using my story to spark something bigger than myself.”

    Lagos’ influential voices gathered at The Delborough Hotel, Lagos, to honour a milestone deeply rooted in survival, gratitude and purpose: the official unveiling of the Kidney For Life Relief Foundation.

    The event brought together a distinguished guest list of friends, collaborators, medical professionals, creatives and supporters like Hero Daniels as the event host alongside Konye Nwabogor (Editor in Chief, Thisday Style); Ozinna Anumudu; Helen Prest Ajayi; Osaze Ebueku (SM Sponsorship and Promotion, MTN); Dr Bruce (Skinetics Nig); Elohor Isiorho (Future Face/Prive Luxe Events); Shina Peller; Timini Egbuson; Adewunmi Segun aka Apilifestyle; Tamar Awobutu and Folakemi Olaosebikan among others, all of whom witnessed his journey firsthand.

    Read Also: Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano sends birthday goodwill to Blessing Pondi

    From a heartfelt documentary screening to a compelling keynote on kidney health by Dr Ebun Bamgboye, ably represented by Mrs Shaki, the lead consultant at St Nicholas Hospital, Nigeria, every moment was designed to inform, inspire and ignite.

    Other highlights of the night included a reflective narration of Efe’s health battle, a symbolic unveiling of the foundation and a fundraising segment that saw pledges and donations roll in, affirming the community’s belief in the foundation’s vision.

    Guests were treated to a warm, elegant evening marked by live music, meaningful conversations and a renewed sense of shared purpose.

    The Kidney For Life Relief Foundation is set to drive awareness, support kidney health advocacy and provide relief-based interventions to individuals facing kidney challenges across Nigeria.

    With this launch, Efe Tommy steps into a new decade not just as a celebrated media figure but as a passionate advocate for life, using his platform to give others a second chance at theirs.