The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Police rescue 920 kidnapped victims in three months – Force PRO

    Police rescue 920 kidnapped victims in three months – Force PRO

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), on Friday disclosed that 920 kidnapped victims were rescued within three months.

    The victims were rescued within October and December 2025.

    Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, who gave the statistics, said the police are working round the clock to ensure that peace and adequate security prevail across the country.

    Read Also: Police unmask man behind violent masquerade in Anambra community 

    He said the force will continue to take the battle to kidnappers to stop the menace.

    Recall the Inspector – General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun before the end 2025 met severally with top police officers and Commissioners of Police nationwide on how to secure their states and ensure proactive measures in tackling insecurity.

    Egbetokun had last week effect a major shakeup in the force for effective performance.

  • Police unmask man behind violent masquerade in Anambra community 

    Police unmask man behind violent masquerade in Anambra community 

    Anambra Police Command has unmasked a 28-year-old man, Ifesinachi Ezeolu as the individual behind a violent masquerade that reportedly unleashed fear on residents of Awgbu community in Orumba South local government area of the state 

    The disclosure followed widespread public outrage over alleged cases of assault, intimidation and harassment linked to the masquerade’s recent outing in the community.

    Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement on Saturday stressed that while the Command respects and recognises the rich cultural and traditional practices of the people, no cultural activity should be used as a shield for lawlessness or abuse of citizens’ rights.

    According to Ikenga, masquerade displays, like all public gatherings, must be peaceful and conducted within the limits of the law, adding that any act capable of instilling fear, causing injury or disrupting public order will not be tolerated.

    He said, “The Command wishes to clearly state that the Nigeria Police Force respects and recognises the cultural and traditional practices of the people. 

    “However, no cultural activity or belief system should be used as a cover to harass, assault, intimidate, or violate the fundamental human rights of citizens.

    Read Also: Anambra community signs anti-cultism law

    “The Command also emphasizes that masquerade activities, like all public gatherings, must be conducted peacefully and within the confines of the law. 

    “Therefore, any act capable of causing fear, injury, or public disorder will be promptly addressed. 

    “Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to identify and bring to justice other suspects who are linked to the incident.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu reassures residents that the Command will continue to work with traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to promote peaceful cultural expressions, while ensuring the safety and rights of all individuals.”

  • Why Nigerians in Diaspora reluctant to invest in Nigeria, by Winhomes CEO

    Why Nigerians in Diaspora reluctant to invest in Nigeria, by Winhomes CEO

    The Chief Executive Officer of Winhomes, Engr Stella Okengwu, has explained why many Nigerians in the diaspora are increasingly reluctant to invest in the country, citing policy inconsistency, poor protection of private investments and actions of government officials that undermine investor confidence.

    Speaking in a recent video interview on Arise Tv, Okengwu said her experience as a diaspora investor has been “mixed and at times disappointing,” stressing that public actions and statements by authorities have created fear rather than reassurance for Nigerians seeking to invest back home.

    According to her, despite having all required approvals and documentation, her company’s infrastructure and property were demolished. 

    “We did all the things, we had all our documentation intact. We were not on the 2006 gazetted alignment, and all of a sudden they just came and bamboozled everything, demolishing our infrastructure and property,” she said.

    Okengwu noted that when senior government officials publicly question or misrepresent lawful private investments, it sends a dangerous signal to potential investors.

    She also raised concerns over what she described as a lack of transparency in infrastructure costing, particularly in projects involving difficult terrains such as swampy areas.

    “Building roads through swamp water with bridges and drainage will never cost the same as building on dry land. The failure to clearly explain these costs leaves everyone dumbfounded,” she said.

    On the issue of compensation for demolished properties, the Winhomes CEO accused the authorities of being unclear and politicising the matter, warning that such conduct further damages Nigeria’s image as an investment destination.

    Okengwu revealed that her firm brought in about $250 million in foreign direct investment, rejecting claims that she was involved in any fraudulent activity.

    “How can I be a fraud when you came into our estates and demolished them on your order? Claims about marine cables on land are false. Marine is in the deep sea, not on land,” she said, insisting she has evidence to back her claims.

    She disclosed that she has written to the Senate and the House of Representatives, saying she is determined to exhaust local remedies before seeking international intervention.

    “We want to try Nigeria first before seeking help from the international community,” Okengwu said, adding that she has also engaged with a United States senator for legal guidance on petitioning relevant anti-corruption agencies.

    According to her, restoring confidence among Nigerians in the diaspora will require transparency, respect for due process and genuine protection of lawful private investments.

    “How can we get Nigeria right if people who follow the rules are treated this way?” She queried.

  • Foundation holds annual community outreach, marks one year of Wakati Isegun

    Foundation holds annual community outreach, marks one year of Wakati Isegun

    The V & J Foundation, a subsidiary of Divinity Meets Humanity, recently held its annual community giveaway, bringing together members of the community to receive, give, and celebrate the sovereignty of God through acts of service and compassion.

    The event also served as a moment of reflection and thanksgiving, as participants marked 52 weeks of consistent spiritual engagement through Wakati Isegun (Hour of Victory) — a faith-based platform dedicated to the teaching of God’s Word and the strengthening of believers.

    Since its inception, Wakati Isegun has focused on helping individuals experience spiritual growth, deliverance, and liberation, while encouraging faith, hope, and purposeful living. 

    Over the past year, participants have shared testimonies of transformation, renewed faith, and divine intervention, which organisers describe as evidence of God’s continued work through the platform.

    Beyond spiritual engagement, the annual giveaway underscored the V & J Foundation’s commitment to community upliftment and practical expressions of faith. Through the initiative, the Foundation reinforced its belief that faith should extend beyond words into tangible actions that positively impact lives.

    Attendees at the event described the atmosphere as one of gratitude, unity, and expectation, as individuals from different walks of life gathered to celebrate God’s faithfulness and to support one another. 

    The programme featured moments of thanksgiving, reflection, and community interaction, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility and shared purpose.

    Read Also: 1,000 receives foundation’s health care

    As the initiative enters a new year, organisers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding both the spiritual and humanitarian impact of Wakati Isegun and the V & J Foundation. With a focus on service, faith, and community development, plans are underway to reach more people and deepen engagement across communities.

    Yemisi Wole Akinleye, the convener of Wakati Isegun encouraged attendees to continue sharing the message of faith and hope with their families and friends, while remaining actively engaged with the platform.

    The event concluded on a note of optimism and unity, reflecting a shared conviction that collective effort and faith-driven service can transform lives and communities.

    The V & J Foundation, operating under the banner of Divinity Meets Humanity, remains committed to its core mission: bridging divinity with humanity through faith, service, and compassion. 

  • Kidnapped S’Africa based bizman escapes, rescued in Anambra 

    Kidnapped S’Africa based bizman escapes, rescued in Anambra 

    A South Africa based businessman has been rescued by the police in Anambra state following his abduction in Enugu state.

    The victim, a native of Obinagu–Isikweachi, Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State, was reportedly kidnapped from his hometown on New Year day.

    According to Tochukwu Ikenga, spokesperson for Anambra Police Command, the victim, abducted by gang of six armed men with masked faces, was rescued by joint security operatives following his escape from the kidnappers’ den.

    He added that the victim’s abductors had demanded N40 million ransom from his family before his sudden escape.

    He said: “Police-led joint security operatives attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Aguata, in the early hours of 15th January 2026, while on routine visibility patrol around the Isulo axis of Orumba South Local Government Area, Anambra State, successfully rescued a kidnapped victim.

    Read Also: Two killed in Police, hoodlums’ two-hour gunbattle in Anambra 

    “The victim disclosed that he is a Nigerian citizen and native of Obinagu–Isikweachi, Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State, but is currently based in South Africa. 

    “He was abducted on 1st January 2026, in the evening hours, from his hometown by a gang of six armed men who reportedly covered their faces with masks.

    “The victim further revealed that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of Forty Million Naira (₦40,000,000) from his wife and relatives. 

    “He, however, managed to escape from the kidnappers’ den, leading to his eventual rescue by the joint security operatives.

    “Following his rescue, the victim was properly debriefed and has since been reunited with his family.

    “Meanwhile, the operatives are actively working with actionable intelligence provided by the victim to identify and dislodge the criminal hideout within the area and arrest those responsible.

    “The Anambra State Police Command continues to reiterate its commitment to sustaining proactive policing. Further developments shall be communicated, please.”

  • Hajj 2026: Lagos begins medical screening for intending pilgrims, appoints LGA coordinators

    Hajj 2026: Lagos begins medical screening for intending pilgrims, appoints LGA coordinators

    The Lagos State Government has commenced medical screening for all intending pilgrims from across the state ahead of the 2026 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin.

    He said the screening exercise, barring any unforeseen circumstances, is scheduled to run from Wednesday, January 14, to Saturday, January 24, 2026, across 10 designated centres in the state.

    Ajomagberin explained that the exercise, coordinated by the medical team led by Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, was decentralised to ensure easy accessibility and operational flexibility, with local government areas grouped under specific screening centres and health facilities.

    According to him, Agege and Ifako-Ijaiye LGAs will be screened at the Agege LGA Secretariat and General Hospital, Orile-Agege; Ikeja and Oshodi-Isolo at the Ikeja LGA Secretariat and BT Diagnostic Centre, LASUTH, Ikeja; Shomolu and Mushin at the Mushin LGA Secretariat and Bukyano Medical Diagnostic/BT Diagnostic, LASUTH, Ikeja; Eti-Osa, Epe and Ibeju-Lekki at the General Hospital, Ibeju-Lekki; and Badagry and Ojo at the General Hospital, Badagry.

    Read Also: Kaduna flags off enlightenment programme for 2026 Hajj intending pilgrims 

    Other centres include Amuwo-Odofin, Apapa and Ajeromi-Ifelodun at the Ajeromi LGA Secretariat and Bukyano Medical Diagnostic; Surulere, Lagos Mainland and Lagos Island at the Surulere LGA Secretariat and Bukyano Medical Diagnostic; Ikorodu and Kosofe at the Ikorodu LGA Secretariat and General Hospital, Ikorodu; Alimosho at the Alimosho LGA Secretariat and Bukyano Diagnostic Centre; while government officials will be screened at Adeyemi-Bero and BT Diagnostic Centre, LASUTH, Ikeja.

    The board secretary urged all intending pilgrims to present themselves for the exercise, warning that failure to undergo the mandatory screening would result in denial of entry visa by the Saudi Arabian Embassy.

    Meanwhile, the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has appointed Local Government Schedule Officers to coordinate and oversee the welfare of pilgrims both in Nigeria and in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    Those appointed include Sanusi-Alaka Hajara (Agege); Kadiri Kudirat Oluwatoyin (Ajeromi-Ifelodun); Bello Aminat Yetunde (Alimosho); Oladipupo Sherifat Abeni (Amuwo-Odofin); Mumeen Rabiu Adebayo (Apapa); Gafar Mojeed (Badagry); Gatta Tajudeen Abiola (Epe/Eti-Osa); Adeoye Rohimot (Ifako-Ijaiye); Ige Rasaq Kolade (Ikeja); Murtador Morenikeji Saudat (Officials); Shitta Riskat O. (Ikorodu); Hassan Sikirat Temitope (Kosofe); Lawal Abubakar Abolore (Lagos Island); Muhammed Rukayat (Lagos Mainland); Oshile Mudirat Bukola (Mushin); Akinyemi Suraju (Ojo); Famosa Olabisi Ibironke (Oshodi-Isolo); Coker Esther (Shomolu); Ganiu Ridwan Abiola (Surulere); and Hassan Taofeek (JAIZ/NIA/ROYAL).

    Ajomagberin noted that the appointments were approved by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, during a meeting with the coordinators at the Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, which was also attended by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Mr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe.

    He urged the coordinators to demonstrate commitment and professionalism in the discharge of their duties, assuring that the state government remains committed to providing a conducive environment for pilgrims to fulfil their spiritual obligations, while warning that any acts capable of undermining the exercise would not be tolerated.

  • LASG strengthens mental health support for survivors of gender-based violence

    LASG strengthens mental health support for survivors of gender-based violence

    The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MWAPA), has intensified efforts to provide mental health support for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the state.

    The ministry, through its Domestic Violence Unit (DVU), organised a one-day awareness and sensitisation programme on mental health for survivors of SGBV at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa.

    The programme brought together key stakeholders, professionals, religious leaders and participants to address the growing need for mental health care, healing and resilience for survivors of abuse and violence.

    Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, said the effects of gender-based violence go beyond physical injuries, noting that emotional and psychological trauma often has long-lasting consequences.

    Read Also: LASG charts new path for stronger primary healthcare

    She stressed the need to prioritise mental wellbeing as a critical part of survivors’ recovery and reintegration, adding that the theme of the programme, “Building Resilience and Gaining Access to Services,” aligns with the state’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly in the areas of social inclusion, human capital development and responsive governance.

    Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Rianat Onigbanjo, described the programme as impactful and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening access to mental health support services for survivors of gender-based violence.

    She commended the commissioner for her leadership and policy direction in promoting the protection, empowerment and holistic wellbeing of women and vulnerable persons in Lagos State. 

    Onigbanjo appreciated survivors for their courage in sharing their experiences and assured them of the ministry’s continued support towards healing, recovery and empowerment. She also commended media partners for amplifying awareness on mental health and gender-based violence.

    During the programme, facilitators from the Lagos State Employee and Wellness Centre educated participants on the concept and forms of gender-based violence, including emotional, economic and physical abuse, as well as harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and denial of inheritance rights.

    They also highlighted the mental health implications of gender-based violence, with emphasis on depression, and discussed prevention and management strategies, encouraging self-awareness, healthy boundary-setting, regular exercise and seeking professional help without fear or stigma.

    Participants were further enlightened on trauma management, coping mechanisms, counselling services and available support structures within Lagos State, and were urged to report abuse through designated helplines. 

    The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders to promote a safer, more inclusive and resilient Lagos State where survivors of gender-based violence receive timely care, protection and support.

  • Lagos steps up support for artisans, targets global job opportunities

    Lagos steps up support for artisans, targets global job opportunities

    The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to empower artisans and unemployed youths with skills, certification and job readiness, as it engaged Human Invest Group Africa to strengthen vocational training and open access to local and international employment opportunities.

    The engagement, facilitated by the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, focused on strategies to improve artisans’ earning capacity, workplace safety and competitiveness, including positioning them for job opportunities beyond Nigeria.

    Speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, said the state government remains deliberate in empowering artisans, describing skilled labour as the backbone of essential services and economic growth in Lagos.

    Read Also: Researchers expand climate-resilient support for vulnerable Lagos communities

    He noted that structured training and proper certification would not only enhance artisans’ incomes but also provide recognition for their skills and enable them to access wider job opportunities.

    Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Lolade Aina, underscored the importance of collaboration between the ministry and Human Invest Group Africa, stressing that accurate data, effective regulation and coordinated interventions are critical to achieving sustainable employment outcomes.

    Earlier, the Founder of Human Invest Group Africa, Mrs. Ajibola Ponle, a former Commissioner for Establishment and Training in Lagos State, called for the regulation and licensing of artisans in line with international best practices.

    She advocated the strengthening and harmonisation of the state’s artisans’ database, noting that proper certification would enhance value, ensure quality assurance, protect the nation’s image and create pathways for artisans to access global job opportunities.

  • Armed Forces Remembrance: Ebonyi Legion appeals for government support

    Armed Forces Remembrance: Ebonyi Legion appeals for government support

    The chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Ebonyi State Council, Veteran Ijeagwu Okechukwu, has paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes while commending the federal and Ebonyi State governments for their efforts in sustaining peace and security across the country.

    He made this known during his address at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day held in Ebonyi State on Wednesday, January 15, 2026.

    Speaking before the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, and other distinguished guests, Okechukwu described the occasion as a solemn reminder of the supreme sacrifice made by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the defence of the nation’s unity and territorial integrity.

    According to him, Nigerian troops have not only defended the country but have also made significant contributions to global peace through their participation in various United Nations peacekeeping missions.

    He urged Nigerians to remain grateful to God for the lives of surviving veterans who fought gallantly for peace at home and abroad.

    The Legion chairman expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for the relative peace currently enjoyed in the country, attributing it to the concerted efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies.

    He also lauded Governor Nwifuru for his decisive interventions in curbing communal violence in parts of Ebonyi State, noting that the governor’s investments in peacebuilding and security have ensured the protection of lives and property.

    “We are all here today because His Excellency invested time and resources to bring peace to Ebonyi State,” Okechukwu said.

    Briefly highlighting the history of the Nigerian Legion, he recalled that the body was established in 1962 and formally backed by an Act of Parliament in 1964, with subsequent amendments strengthening its legal framework.

    He noted that the Legion is affiliated with international veterans’ organisations, including the British Commonwealth League of Veterans.

    Okechukwu further disclosed that the Nigerian Legion operates an affiliate security outfit known as the Corps of Commissionaire, sanctioned by the Ministry of Defence.

    He explained that the corps, made up of able-bodied men, supports security operations and traffic control, and is directly supervised by the Ministry of Defence.

    He added that he currently serves as the Commandant of the corps in Ebonyi State.

    The Legion chairman appealed to Governor Nwifuru to consider appointing qualified Legion members to government positions, recalling past appointments of members such as Squadron Leader Okoro and Barrister Clement as Special Technical Advisers, which he said boosted morale among veterans.

    Okechukwu appealed to the governor, as Patron of the Nigerian Legion in the state, to assist in upgrading the Legion’s welfare and operational capacity.

    “My hope and faith are in the love, kindness, and generosity of His Excellency to all, especially the Legion,” he said, while praying for continued peace and divine blessings upon the state and the nation.

    The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour Nigeria’s fallen heroes and appreciate the sacrifices of serving and retired military personnel.

  • LAPO MfB names Aghimien non-executive director

    LAPO MfB names Aghimien non-executive director

    LAPO Microfinance Bank has appointed Mr. Edward Osayomwanbor Aghimien, an economist and marketing expert, as a Non-Executive Director.

    Aghimien brings over four decades of experience spanning fast-moving consumer goods, retail operations and business development. 

    He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Benin and a Diploma in Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, United Kingdom. 

    Read Also: LAPO disburses N140b in first half

    Aghimien has also participated in several executive education programmes.

    He began his career in administrative roles and joined UACN Limited in 1984, where he rose through the ranks to management positions, including Store Manager and Acting Regional Manager. 

    He later moved to Lever Brothers Nigeria, now Unilever Nigeria Plc, where he served as Brand Manager for Vaseline and managed multimillion-naira marketing and advertising portfolios.

    Aghimien is currently the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Esosa Investment Limited, an FMCG-focused firm, where he oversees strategic planning, business development and corporate performance. 

    He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (UK) and the Nigerian Marketing Association.

    Speaking on the appointment, the Managing Director of LAPO Microfinance Bank, Ms. Cynthia Ikponmwosa, said Aghimien’s wealth of experience across diverse industries would add significant value to the bank’s Board.

    She noted that the appointment aligns with the bank’s long-term corporate governance and growth strategy, adding that LAPO MfB remains committed to strengthening its institutional capacity, deepening financial inclusion and expanding access to responsible financial services for low-income households and micro-enterprises nationwide.