The Federal Government said it was banking on funding support to the tune of $150 million from the World Bank for the implementation of the Africa Centres of Excellence (ACE) Innovate Project.
The innovate project is aimed at sustaining cutting-edge research and innovation in Nigerian universities, and is the next phase of the World Bank-funded ACE project.
Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof Abdullahi Ribadu, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja, during the official launch of the ACE Alliance and the unveiling of a four-volume Compendium of Key Achievements and Impacts of the ACE project in Nigeria.
Ribadu said the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, had formally written to the Federal Ministry of Finance to engage the World Bank for the funding, which would drive the next phase of the ACE initiative.
According to him, the request for $150 million in new World Bank support, signals Nigeria’s determination to consolidate the gains of the ACE Project and institutionalise excellence in research, innovation, and postgraduate education.
The NUC chief noted that the ACE Project represents one of the most transformative initiatives in the history of higher education in sub-Saharan Africa as over the past decade, 17 Nigerian universities, hosting 20 Centres of Excellence have produced world-class research, postgraduate training, and innovations that address national and regional development priorities in health, agriculture, ICT, education, and engineering.
Ribadu added that the new ACE Innovate Project would build on these achievements while expanding collaboration with other development partners, including the African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, to ensure sustainability beyond donor cycles.
He stated: “We will continue to engage other development partners to explore new collaborative frameworks that can build on the lessons of the ACE Project and the NUC’s goal of ensuring a university system that is at par with its contemporaries globally.
“Some of these partners we are currently in talks with include the African Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa. This is important because we aim to sustain excellence, expand opportunities, and ensure that the structures and systems established under ACE continue to thrive beyond the project’s lifecycle.
“We also remain committed to institutionalising the ACEs within their host universities, ensuring they remain engines of innovation, policy influence, and capacity building for generations to come.”
The NUC boss also inaugurated an interim steering committee for the newly formed ACE Alliance, chaired by Prof. Emenike Ejiogu of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to drive collaboration, research exchange, and policy engagement among Nigeria’s Centres of Excellence.
He expressed confidence that the project will deepen research collaboration, and advance Nigeria’s competitiveness in higher education.
Also speaking, the Minister of Education, Alausa, noted that the ACE Project, funded by the World Bank and co-financed by the French Development Agency, AFD, has significantly strengthened Nigeria’s position as a leader in African higher education, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises education as the bedrock of national development.
The minister said recognising the immense impact of the ACE Project to the Nigerian University System (NUS) he did not hesitate when NUC requested for approval to approach key development partners such as the African Development Bank, AfDB, the Islamic Development Bank, IsDB, and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, BADEA, to mobilise additional support for the Blueprint for the Rapid Revitalisation of University Education in Nigeria.
On the Compendium of key achievements of the ACE projects, a landmark documentation of the ACE journey, the minister said it captures over 2,000 peer-reviewed publications, a directory of scholars and equipment, and a comprehensive record of innovations achieved by Nigerian universities under the World Bank-supported project.
He noted that with the ACE Alliance and the Innovate Project, Nigeria is poised to transform its universities into engines of growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
Alausa said: “One of the most remarkable achievements of the ACE Project is its contribution to the internationalisation of education. From the report before me, the Nigerian ACEs have attracted students and faculty from across Africa, fostering cross-border knowledge exchange and positioning Nigeria as a regional hub for excellence.
“This aligns with our broader agenda to integrate Nigeria into global education data systems, ensuring that our institutions are recognised and ranked among the best worldwide. The ACE Project has, therefore, positioned Nigeria not only as a consumer but also as a provider of high-quality transnational education, and through the ACE Alliance, our Centres can continue to forge stronger partnerships with leading institutions worldwide, promoting joint degrees, faculty exchanges, and collaborative research that benefit students and faculty alike.
“To remain competitive, however, we must continue to benchmark our systems against global standards, leveraging robust data to guide policy, planning, and performance improvement.”
He also stated that by fostering excellence in research, teaching, and innovation, the ACEs are helping to shape the skilled workforce and knowledge base our nation needs to compete in a dynamic global economy.
National Coordinator of the ACE Project in Nigeria, Dr Joshua Atah, described the launch of the ACE Alliance Project as “a celebration of visionary investment, innovation, partnership, and transformation” that has reshaped the nation’s higher education landscape since the project’s inception in 2014.
Atah noted that Nigeria has led the continent in the implementation of the project under ACE I, in 2014, with 10 Centres of Excellence, and later under ACE Impact, in 2019, with 17 Centres supported by the World Bank and Agence Française de Développement, AFD.
“Over the past decade, Nigeria’s ACEs have evolved into engines of innovation and excellence. Collectively, they have attracted over $145 million in performance-based funding and mobilised additional resources exceeding N3.9 billion, $46 million, €1.78 million, and £2.6 million from diverse sources, all reinvested into research, infrastructure, and capacity building,” he said.
According to him, the Centres have enrolled more than 45,000 students, including participants from over 15 African countries, and produced over 6,600 graduates, among them 1,596 PhDs.
He added that their faculty and students have published more than 4,200 peer-reviewed papers and established over 625 partnerships with industries and research institutions across the world.
Apart from the figures, Atah said, the impact of the ACEs is evident in their response to real-world challenges.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, two Nigerian Centres were designated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as testing laboratories—a testament to the relevance of their research infrastructure,” he stated.
He explained that ACE Alliance represents the next phase of the initiative, a bold step toward sustainability and a collaborative platform to consolidate the gains of the past decade, deepen partnerships, influence policy, and attract new investments for innovation and regional development.
“As we look ahead, the ACE story is proof that with vision, partnership, and persistence, African universities can compete globally and contribute meaningfully to the continent’s transformation,” he said.
Every Lagosian both loves and hates Lagos. The lived reality of the romance and pain of being Lagosian transcends socio-spatial binaries. A city at war with itself, and in open, silent rebellion against its nation.[1] Lagos is both a haven for the imprisoned in search of liberation, and a coffin for free spirits seeking expression. Every man for himself, and God for all of us. The city of Lagos, the Center of Excellence, Nigeria’s pride and shame. In a place where law is merely implied and selectively enforced, order is achieved only through organized chaos, and public infrastructure is utilized against the schemes of the government, the question ‘who is in control?’ becomes a curious one.
Satellite Image of Lagos featuring Tafawa Balewa Square. Source: Google Earth 2023
The city of Lagos has expanded colossally since Nigeria gained its independence from the British in 1960, and few infrastructural legacies of the city’s colonial heritage remain. Tafawa Balewa Square, locally referred to by its acronym “TBS” is one of those sites. In its former life, the square was known as “The Lagos Racecourse”. A sports field which was built on land provided to colonial authorities by Oba Dosunmu. Dosunmu was the first Eleko of Eko, the traditional ruler of Lagos, to be appointed by the British consulate. [2] The Lagos Racecourse served as the site of British “Empire Day Parades” until Nigeria gained its independence in 1960. After which, the course, which had been a symbol and site for the enactment of colonial imperialism, was re-developed to celebrate the lowering of the Union Jack over Nigeria.[3]
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Featured with Queen Elizabeth 1956 (Center), John F. Kennedy 1961 (Right). Sources: Nigerian Government, African History Archives, JFK Library Archives.
Tafawa Balewa Square was named after the first and only prime minister of Nigeria, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. His rule, like the Square, transcended colonialism. Beginning with his appointment in 1957 and ending with his assassination in 1966.[4] The song of hope and aspiration, crushed by greed and corruption, tells the story of Lagos and Nigeria. The first republic which ended with the coup of January 1966, gave way to military dictatorship which persevered until the brief respite of the Second Republic that lasted four years, before another coup d’état returned Nigeria to military rule, which lasted until the dawn of the millennium.[5]
The Lagos Racecourse. Source: Lagospedia
At the directive of Yakubu Gowan, the military dictator who masterminded the countercoup that wrestled Nigeria from the insurgents who ended the first republic, the racecourse was re-built and renamed. The redeveloped Tafawa Balewa Square retained the façade of the original Racecourse. Post-colonial government in Nigeria has retained the extractive and oppressive qualities of colonial rule. Like the Square, deterioration and decay is hidden behind an exterior that aspires to become more than. The 26 story “independence building” which was constructed as part of the initial redevelopment of the Racecourse was also retained. Today, in addition to a 50,000-capacity plaza, TBS houses public amenities that include a shopping complex, a travel agency, restaurants, paid parking lots, and a major bus terminal.[6] The square hosts multiple state and private events throughout each year, including music concerts, traditional masquerade festivals, Independence Day parades and other political rallies.
The firm responsible for the present rendition of Tafawa Balewa Square is Build Hope Services International Limited (BHS). In 2007, BHS was appointed by the Nigerian federal government, through the infrastructure concession regulatory commission (ICRC), during the tenure of President Olusegun Obasanjo, as the private concessionaire of Tafawa Balewa Square, following a competitive bidding process. The concession requirements as outlined by the ICRC were, to efficiently maintain the complex for a period of thirty years, and to develop additional infrastructures that would improve the use of the complex for the general public.[7] The CEO of BHS, Otunba Olu Adenodi, in an interview with The Nation newspaper given in 2015, expressed that prior to BHS taking over management of TBS, the square provided a haven for “street urchins, miscreants and hoodlums” who “used the site as a hideout to perpetrate various social vices”. This was his way of saying that the square was an uncommodified chill spot for public school students, young adults, and artisans during their work breaks. Despite the deteriorating infrastructure of the square seven years into their contract, Adenodi maintained that the firm had been upgrading the plaza’s facilities and providing jobs for Nigerians in the process. He described the company’s vision to transform the square into a “world class” city center, modelled after the Dubai trade center.[8]
In 2014, through the federal ministry of industry, trade and investment, the federal government during the tenure of Goodluck E. Jonathan, commenced plans for the redevelopment of independence building, into a National Trade and International Business Centre (NTIBC). Following a competitive bid procurement process, The Infrastructure Bank plc (TIB), was appointed as transaction advisor. At the time of appointment, the managing director of TIB explained that the services provided by the bank would be broad and include the selection of a third party, who would provide technical and financial solutions through a public-private partnership. The aim being to transform the building into an ultra-modern, high rise, mixed used complex that will facilitate trade and investments.[9]
Independence Building. Source (Right) Nairaland. (Left) Rethinking the Future.TBS Bus Terminal. Source: The Guardian Nigeria.
Although the public private partnership model is not an uncommon approach to stewarding national assets in Nigeria, Tafawa Balewa Square presents quite a unique case study. Built on land that should undisputedly belong to the indigenes of Lagos, the Ownership of the land and all infrastructures subsequently developed on it, fell under federal jurisdiction at a time when Lagos was the capital of Nigeria. The relocation of the federal capital to Abuja in 1991, removed governance of the square, which was built on indigenous Eko land, from the direct influence of Lagos State, and relegated it to being an afterthought of a national monument, despite its historical pedigree. The indigenous people of Lagos to whom TBS holds the greatest cultural and social significance, have been forced to witness the steady deterioration of the complex over thirty years of neglect. Many of the original decorative and architectural components of the site have been lost to decay, including the iconic wrought iron gates which have been progressively replaced by steel bars under the stewardship of BHS. Loitering, hawking and petty trading, are the uses of the square outside of formally organized events. The mis-aligned interests of the people, state, and capital have on multiple occasions caused the future of Tafawa Balewa Square, to be very precarious.[10]
Figure 8: The Original Brass Gates, TBS. Source: Owlcation.
Disinvestment in national infrastructures located in Lagos State by the federal government, has been prevalent since the relocation of Nigeria’s capital to Abuja, leading to the deterioration of the most treasured historical sites in Lagos, and often creating open disputes between the state and the federal government. The power of land trustee vested in the state government under the Nigerian constitution, provides leverage for negotiations between both parties in deciding the future of national buildings and complexes located in Lagos state.[11] Public-private partnerships often emerge as the compromise made between the Federal Government, who reduce sites such as Tafawa Balewa to assets on a spreadsheet that may be liquidated to mitigate the nations dire finances, and the State of Lagos whose urban aspirations are inspired by world-class ideals and aesthetics.
TBS, Iron bar gates. Source: The Punch Newspaper.
Across the city from TBS, At the end of Ozumba Mbadiwe street, at the point where Victoria Island meets Lekki Phase 1, and on a longitudinal, in-between old Ikoyi and Oniru, a different kind of urban center is situated. The Admiralty Circle Plaza is a vehicular toll gate on Lekki-Epe express way that exacts a fare on motorists travelling on either side of the highway. The toll gate which is owned and operated by a public-private partnership between Lagos state and the Lekki Concession Company (LCC), was funded by the African Development Bank, and commenced operations in 2011. Its name “Admiralty Circle Plaza” was given by state planning officials, who aspired to create a landmark of what was at the time, one of the most capital-intensive urban re-development projects in the city of Lagos. However, despite political propaganda to romanticize and endear the project to Lagosians, the Lekki Toll gate has been a site of contestation and discord since it’s inauguration.[12]
Satellite Image of Lagos featuring Admiralty Circle plaza. Source: Google Earth 2023
Resentment towards the toll gate stemmed from multiple factors, one being the initial lack of alternative routes for motorists who did not wish to pay a fare, making the toll a mandatory imposition on state residents for whom the expressway was a primary commute route. Further resentment stemmed from the intensification of vehicular traffic caused by the toll gate, in a part of the city that already had notoriously intense traffic congestions. [13] Another source of resentment was the notion that Lagos State, Nigeria’s economic capital, could not afford to pay the reported eighty-five million dollars that it cost to re-develop the expressway without imposing tolls on citizens to pay for the project, especially at a time when the state government was cracking down on civilian taxes.[14]
A lesser but not insignificant cause for resentment was the perceived part ownership of the toll gate by Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, former governor of Lagos state and current president of Nigeria. These allegations have been openly rejected by President Bola Tinubu himself, who publicly claimed to have no investment in the Lekki Concession Company.[15] The billboards splashed across all LCC operated toll gates, are acknowledged to be owned and operated by Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Tinubu, through is media company, Loatsad Promo media LTD.[16] However true or false the allegations may be, the real ownership of the Lekki Concession Company remained shrouded in mystery, and abstract claims of international partnerships, until the company was taken over by the state government in 2021.[17]
Admiralty Circle Plaza. Source: Nairaland
A distrust has historically existed between the governed and the government in Lagos State, owing to a lack of transparency in affairs of governance, and the administration of the state budget. This is also owed to the propensity of the state government to utilize police and military force in imposing its ordinances on civilians, as was the case at the initial commencement of tolling at Admiralty Circle Plaza, leaving residents of the area who came out to protest the imposition, in need of urgent medical care.[18] Their lawsuits against the state, as with other lawsuits that were filed to contest tolling at the site, have gone unacknowledged and unaccounted for by the state.[19]
Admiralty Circle Plaza. Source: P.M. Express
To quell public resentment, and to address increased traffic congestion caused by the bottle neck created at the plaza, the Lekki Concession Company transitioned to digitized modes of payment in the form of prepaid toll cards or vehicle tags, an alternative to cash payments. These digital modes of payments ultimately became another mandatory imposition on all motorists passing through the toll gate, after their initial partial usage failed to decongest traffic.[20] Efforts made by LCC to manage public relations have had tepid effect on public sentiment, owing to the multiple toll fare increments that have been implemented since the launch of the toll gate.[21]
End SARS Protest. Source: Nora Awolowo
In October 2020 while the city of Lagos was easing out of COVID-19 lockdown, The Admiralty circle plaza became the primary site of demonstration for the End SARS protests. End SARS was a decentralized civilian movement that was conceived on twitter, and birthed in Lagos State, championed by Gen Z and millennial Nigerians in protest of police brutality at the hands of the now defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), which was a specialized division of the Nigerian police department. The demands of the crowd funded movement to end SARS expanded to included justice for victims of police brutality, and improved salaries for policemen across the nation in order to circumvent their extortions and harassments of civilians. The End SARS movement found expression in the form of peaceful protests which happened across Nigeria and were echoed internationally.[22]
In Lagos state, occupation of Admiralty Circle Plaza was employed as a tactic to gain the attention of the government. During the twelve-day occupation which transformed the toll road into the public plaza that it aspired to be, the public utilized the site for a range of activates including but not limited to sleeping, dining, communing, worshipping, workshopping, strategizing and of course, protesting. The highway became a church and a mosque, a canteen, a bedroom, a board room, an office and more.[23] In the evening of October 20th, 2020, all streetlights around the plaza were turned off. The digital billboard splashed across the toll gate which had depicted advertisements campaigning the cause of the movement, paid for by supporters of End SARS, were also turned off, plunging the plaza into darkness. The only light sources were the phones and candles held by protesters. Subsequently, the miliary arrived, opening fire on the peaceful protesters, many of whom were on their knees singing the national anthem and waving Nigeria’s flag.[24]
Following the massacre, the outraged public demanded questions. The federal government commented that reports of shootings and killings were fake news. The state government said that it did not have the authority to deploy the Nigerian military. The Lekki Concession Company maintained that it turned off its billboards and CCTV cameras at the instruction of the state government.[25] The state government did not comment on this but staged a walkthrough of the plaza where a CCVT camera alleged to have evidence on it, was conveniently discovered three weeks after the toll gates had been burnt down.[26] Under growing demands for comment, the President at the time, Muhamad Buhari, a former military dictator of Nigeria from 1983-1985, came out of reclusion to acknowledge the allegations in an infamous speech that left Nigerians speechless.[27]
Tafawa Balewa Square and Admiralty Circle Plaza are separated by regimes, and while there are obvious differences between both sites, there are also significant parallels. As discussed, public space cannot be separated from politics in Lagos State. One site, born under colonialism and nurtured by dictatorship, still endures as place of social and cultural intersection. In a city where public conduct is prescribed and regulated by the government, the act of loitering itself becomes a form of protest. The other site, conceived with aspirations for publicness far grander what it’s infrastructure can accommodate, becomes a crude expression of the relationship between the state and its public. The choreography of payment and extraction becomes an event.
The extent to which the government is willing to permit chaos or disruption to either site before intervening, corresponds directly to the impact of such activities on the state’s revenue. The loiterers may make use of TBS, if their activities do not disrupt paid events. The people may make use of Admiralty circle plaza if their activities do not disrupt tolling. Excessive deviation from the status quo elicits a firm reminder that democracy is only theoretical. This is of course a critique of the plaza which is designed solely for vehicles and not for people, giving the plaza a few things to learn from TBS, accessible for informal recreational and commercial use, however criminalized, and formal events that are in some cases freely accessible to the public and in most, accessible for a fee.
Oréoluwa is a guest columnist at the Nation Newspaper. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) from the Pratt Institute School of Architecture and a Master of Science in Architecture and Urban Design (STEM-designated) from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation (GSAPP).
She is a Project Management Professional (PMP), a Certified Passive House Designer (CPHD), and a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) and a WELL Accredited Professional (WELL AP). Her professional experiences span three continents and a broad range of scales—from detailed interior and building design, to complex urban and regional planning.
Oréoluwa has worked on a diverse array of projects in both the public and private sectors, including commercial, educational, industrial, hospitality and automotive developments.
A published researcher and educator, Oréoluwa has taught as an Adjunct Associate at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, where she is also a regular guest critic. Additionally, she has served as a juror and critic for various architectural design competitions.
References
1. “#endsars Movement: From Twitter to Nigerian Streets.” Amnesty International, July 29, 2021. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/campaigns/2021/02/nigeria-end-impunity-for-police-violence-by-sars-endsars/.
2. Anaba, Innocent. “Lekki Toll Gate: Residents Sue Lagos Govt, Police, LCC, Others over Alleged Beating.” Vanguard News, January 3, 2012. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2012/01/lekki-toll-gate-residents-sue-lagos-govt-police-lcc-others-over-alleged-beating/.
3. Augoye, Jayne. Premium Times – Nigeria leading newspaper for News, investigations. Accessed May 8, 2023. https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/ssouth-west/256956-lcc-increase-lekki-ikoyi-toll-fares.html.
4. Chocomilo, Sodiq Adewale. “I Have No Investment in Lekki Tollgate, Says Tinubu.” WITHIN NIGERIA, October 26, 2020. https://www.withinnigeria.com/2020/10/26/i-have-no-investment-in-lekki-tollgate-says-tinubu/.
5. “Christians and Muslims Pray Together at Lekki Toll Gate – Video.” Christians and Muslims pray together at Lekki Toll Gate – Video – Opera News. Accessed May 9, 2023. https://ng.opera.news/ng/en/religion/73c06dfeff153586ef17fb016ad92b8d.
6. Debe, Idonosan, and Rosemary Opara. “‘prove That Seyi Tinubu Does Not Own Lekki Toll Gate’ – Bode George.” The Lagos Today, February 19, 2021. https://thelagostoday.com/prove-that-seyi-tinubu-does-not-own-lekki-toll-gate-bode-george/.
7. Elumoye, Deji, Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale, and Emmanuel Addeh. “Buhari in Deafening Silence over Lekki Shootings, Urges End to Protests.” THISDAYLIVE Buhari in Deafening Silence over Lekki Shootings Urges End to Protests Comments. Accessed May 9, 2023. https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2020/10/23/buhari-in-deafening-silence-over-lekki-shootings-urges-end-to-protests/.
8. Erezi, Dennis. “Lagos Judicial Panel Member Tackles Fashola over Camera Discovery at Lekki Toll Gate.” The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News, October 26, 2020. https://guardian.ng/news/lagos-judicial-panel-member-tackles-fashola-over-camera-discovery-at-lekki-toll-gate/.
9. Eribake, Akintayo. “Tension as Lagos Govt Insists on Toll Collection.” Vanguard News, December 16, 2011. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2011/12/tension-as-lagos-govt-insists-on-toll-collection/.
10. “How We Were Brutalised at Tollgate –Protesters.” Daily Post Nigeria, December 19, 2011. https://dailypost.ng/2011/12/19/how-we-were-brutalised-at-tollgate-%E2%80%93protesters/.
11. Ifeoluwa Akandea, Edikan M. Okonb, Oke Teminijesuc, Atirolaoluwa D. Olanrewajud , “Evaluation of Building Maintenance Strategies in Public Buildings: A Case of Onikan Area of Lagos State Nigeria,” International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews Vol 2, no 11 (2021), pp 20-29, www.ijrpr.com ISSN 2582-7421
12. Inyang, Ifreke. “Lekki Toll Gate Shooting: Seyi Tinubu’s Firm Explains Why Billboard Lights Were Switched Off.” Daily Post Nigeria, October 21, 2020. https://dailypost.ng/2020/10/21/lekki-toll-gate-shooting-seyi-tinubus-firm-explains-why-billboard-lights-were-switched-off/.
13. LAURENT FOURCHARD, “Lagos, Koolhaas and Partisan Politics in Nigeria,” International Journal of Urban and Regional Research 35, no. 1 (2010): pp. 40-56, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2427.2010.00938.x, 40-41.
14. “Lekki Expressway Toll Plaza, Lagosians Suffer 3 Months after Commencement of Shady Concession.” Sahara Reporters. Accessed May 8, 2023. https://saharareporters.com/2012/03/15/lekki-expressway-toll-plaza-lagosians-suffer-3-months-after-commencement-shady-concession.
16. Nan. “Lagos Assembly Approves Full Takeover of Lekki Concession Company.” The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News, August 9, 2021. https://guardian.ng/news/lagos-assembly-approves-full-takeover-of-lekki-concession-company/.
17. Natio, The. “Lagos’ll Reclaim TBS, Says Fashola.” The Nation Newspaper, September 23, 2015. https://thenationonlineng.net/lagosll-reclaim-tbs-says-fashola/.
18. “Nigeria: The Lekki Toll Gate Massacre – New Investigative Timeline.” Amnesty International, September 6, 2022. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2020/10/nigeria-the-lekki-toll-gate-massacre-new-investigative-timeline/.
19. Nwelih, Dominic. “‘“why We Want Lekki-Epe Expressway Concession Deal Reviewed.”’” Sahara Reporters. Accessed May 8, 2023. https://saharareporters.com/2010/09/01/%E2%80%98%E2%80%99why-we-want-lekki-epe-expressway-concession-deal-reviewed%E2%80%99%E2%80%99.
20. Oghifo, Bennett. Nigeria: Toll collection begins on Lekki Road – allafrica.com. Accessed May 7, 2023. https://allafrica.com/stories/201012160351.html.
21. Ogundeji, Josephine. “Tafawa Balewa Square: Years after Concession, World-Class Tourist Site Dream Fades.” Head Topics, March 23, 2023. https://headtopics.com/ng/tafawa-balewa-square-years-after-concession-world-class-tourist-site-dream-fades-37024735.
22. Ogundeji, Josephine. “Tafawa Balewa Square: Years after Concession, World-Class Tourist Site Dream Fades.” Punch Newspapers, March 22, 2023. https://punchng.com/tafawa-balewa-square-years-after-concession-world-class-tourist-site-dream-fades/?utm_source=headtopics&utm_medium=news&utm_campaign=2023-03-23.
23. Ojo, Jide. “June 12, Nass and Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.” Punch Newspapers, June 12, 2019. https://punchng.com/june-12-nass-and-nigerias-fourth-republic/.
24. Report, Agency. “Cash Payment to End at Lekki Toll Plaza -Concessionaire.” Punch Newspapers, December 3, 2019. https://punchng.com/no-more-cash-payment-at-lekki-toll-plaza-concessionaire/.
25. Robert Sydney Smith, The Lagos Consulate, 1851-1861 (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2022).
[1] LAURENT FOURCHARD, “Lagos, Koolhaas and Partisan Politics in Nigeria,” International Journal of Urban and Regional Research 35, no. 1 (2010): pp. 40-56, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2427.2010.00938.x, 40-41.
[2] Robert Sydney Smith, The Lagos Consulate, 1851-1861 (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2022), 55.
[3] Ifeoluwa Akandea, Edikan M. Okonb, Oke Teminijesuc, Atirolaoluwa D. Olanrewajud , “Evaluation of Building Maintenance Strategies in Public Buildings: A Case of Onikan Area of Lagos State Nigeria,” International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews Vol 2, no 11 (2021), pp 20-29, www.ijrpr.com ISSN 2582-7421
[4] McKenna, Amy. “Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. Accessed May 7, 2023. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Abubakar-Tafawa-Balewa.
[5] Ojo, Jide. “June 12, Nass and Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.” Punch Newspapers, June 12, 2019. https://punchng.com/june-12-nass-and-nigerias-fourth-republic/.
[6] Ifeoluwa Akandea, Edikan M. Okonb, Oke Teminijesuc, Atirolaoluwa D. Olanrewajud , “Evaluation of Building Maintenance Strategies in Public Buildings: A Case of Onikan Area of Lagos State Nigeria,” International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews Vol 2, no 11 (2021), pp 20-29, www.ijrpr.com ISSN 2582-7421
[8] “’Tafawa Balewa Square Leased, Not Sold’.” The Nation Newspaper, June 8, 2015. https://thenationonlineng.net/tafawa-balewa-square-leased-not-sold/.
[9] Eribake, Akintayo. “Independence Building: FG Appoints Tib Advisor.” Vanguard News. Vanguard Media limited, October 30, 2014. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/10/independence-building-fg-appoints-tib-advisor/.
[10] Ogundeji, Josephine. “Tafawa Balewa Square: Years after Concession, World-Class Tourist Site Dream Fades.” Punch Newspapers, March 22, 2023. https://punchng.com/tafawa-balewa-square-years-after-concession-world-class-tourist-site-dream-fades/?utm_source=headtopics&utm_medium=news&utm_campaign=2023-03-23.
[11] Natio, The. “Lagos’ll Reclaim TBS, Says Fashola.” The Nation Newspaper, September 23, 2015. https://thenationonlineng.net/lagosll-reclaim-tbs-says-fashola/.
[12]Eribake, Akintayo. “Tension as Lagos Govt Insists on Toll Collection.” Vanguard News, December 16, 2011. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2011/12/tension-as-lagos-govt-insists-on-toll-collection/.
[13] “Lekki Expressway Toll Plaza, Lagosians Suffer 3 Months after Commencement of Shady Concession.” Sahara Reporters. Accessed May 8, 2023. https://saharareporters.com/2012/03/15/lekki-expressway-toll-plaza-lagosians-suffer-3-months-after-commencement-shady-concession.
[14] Nwelih, Dominic. “”Why We Want Lekki-Epe Expressway Concession Deal Reviewed”.” Sahara Reporters. Accessed May 8, 2023. https://saharareporters.com/2010/09/01/‘’why-we-want-lekki-epe-expressway-concession-deal-reviewed’’
[15] Chocomilo, Sodiq Adewale. “I Have No Investment in Lekki Tollgate, Says Tinubu.” WITHIN NIGERIA, October 26, 2020. https://www.withinnigeria.com/2020/10/26/i-have-no-investment-in-lekki-tollgate-says-tinubu/.
[16] Debe, Idonosan, and Rosemary Opara. “‘prove That Seyi Tinubu Does Not Own Lekki Toll Gate’ – Bode George.” The Lagos Today, February 19, 2021. https://thelagostoday.com/prove-that-seyi-tinubu-does-not-own-lekki-toll-gate-bode-george/.
[17] Nan. “Lagos Assembly Approves Full Takeover of Lekki Concession Company.” The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News, August 9, 2021. https://guardian.ng/news/lagos-assembly-approves-full-takeover-of-lekki-concession-company/.
[18] “How We Were Brutalised at Tollgate –Protesters.” Daily Post Nigeria, December 19, 2011. https://dailypost.ng/2011/12/19/how-we-were-brutalised-at-tollgate-–protesters/
[19] Anaba, Innocent. “Lekki Toll Gate: Residents Sue Lagos Govt, Police, LCC, Others over Alleged Beating.” Vanguard News, January 3, 2012. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2012/01/lekki-toll-gate-residents-sue-lagos-govt-police-lcc-others-over-alleged-beating/.
[20] Report, Agency. “Cash Payment to End at Lekki Toll Plaza -Concessionaire.” Punch Newspapers, December 3, 2019. https://punchng.com/no-more-cash-payment-at-lekki-toll-plaza-concessionaire/.
[21] Augoye, Jayne. Premium Times – Nigeria leading newspaper for News, investigations. Accessed May 8, 2023. https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/ssouth-west/256956-lcc-increase-lekki-ikoyi-toll-fares.html.
[22] “#endsars Movement: From Twitter to Nigerian Streets.” Amnesty International, July 29, 2021. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/campaigns/2021/02/nigeria-end-impunity-for-police-violence-by-sars-endsars/.
[23] “Christians and Muslims Pray Together at Lekki Toll Gate – Video.” Christians and Muslims pray together at Lekki Toll Gate – Video – Opera News. Accessed May 9, 2023. https://ng.opera.news/ng/en/religion/73c06dfeff153586ef17fb016ad92b8d.
[24] “Nigeria: The Lekki Toll Gate Massacre – New Investigative Timeline.” Amnesty International, September 6, 2022. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2020/10/nigeria-the-lekki-toll-gate-massacre-new-investigative-timeline/.
[25] Inyang, Ifreke. “Lekki Toll Gate Shooting: Seyi Tinubu’s Firm Explains Why Billboard Lights Were Switched Off.” Daily Post Nigeria, October 21, 2020. https://dailypost.ng/2020/10/21/lekki-toll-gate-shooting-seyi-tinubus-firm-explains-why-billboard-lights-were-switched-off/.
[26] Erezi, Dennis. “Lagos Judicial Panel Member Tackles Fashola over Camera Discovery at Lekki Toll Gate.” The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News, October 26, 2020. https://guardian.ng/news/lagos-judicial-panel-member-tackles-fashola-over-camera-discovery-at-lekki-toll-gate/.
[27] Elumoye, Deji, Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale, and Emmanuel Addeh. “Buhari in Deafening Silence over Lekki Shootings, Urges End to Protests.” THISDAYLIVE Buhari in Deafening Silence over Lekki Shootings Urges End to Protests Comments. Accessed May 9, 2023. https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2020/10/23/buhari-in-deafening-silence-over-lekki-shootings-urges-end-to-protests/.
Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on National Assembly Matters, Ibrahim Olarenwaju, has lauded Ekiti Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on his induction into the Ekiti State University (EKSU) Alumni Hall of Fame.
In a statement in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, Olarenwaju described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of Governor Oyebanji’s unwavering commitment to education and immense contributions to the growth and development of his alma mater.
The former federal lawmaker noted that the Governor’s investiture into the EKSU alumni Hall of Fame was particularly symbolic, as he is the first alumnus of the university to become the state’s governor.
Olarenwaju added that the recognition underscores the governor’s uncommon dedication and support to the growth of the institution and his impressive record of service to Ekiti State.
He said: “The accolades poured on the governor by the Chancellor and the Vice-Chancellor, particularly, citing the over 100% increment in the subvention to Ekiti State University and his consistent support, serve as a powerful testament to the Governor’s deep connection to his alma mater and his dedication to its growth.”
He praised the Governor for his visionary leadership, describing him as a shining example of quality of leaders nurtured by the university.
Olarenwaju noted that the Governor has continued to make the EKSU alumni community proud through his people-focused governance and commitment to excellence
“Governor Oyebanji is a shining example of the quality of leaders nurtured by the Preston Ekiti University. “His impressive performance in office is matched by his demonstrable passion for development of the university, proving that he has not forgotten his roots.
“This honour is an historic celebration of his exceptional leadership, visionary governance, and his success in making the alumni body profoundly proud. We celebrate this unique achievement with His Excellency and look forward to even greater strides in his continued service to Ekiti State and the nation,” he added.
He added further that the investiture has solidified Governor Oyebanji’s legacy as an outstanding alumnus and visionary leader whose impact would continue to resonate beyond the state and serve as an inspiration to future generations of EKSU graduates.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has said the Federal Government’s student loan scheme has crossed one million applications on its official portal.
The organisation said this marked one of the biggest uptake levels for a government-backed social scheme since the start of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
A statement yesterday in Abuja by its Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, said the milestone comes barely one year after the programme’s launch on May 24, 2024.
The statement described the development as proof that the student loan initiative is gaining strong national traction and public trust.
It stated that over N116 billion has so far been disbursed to students across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Nigeria, covering institutional charges and upkeep allowances.
The agency’s Managing Director, Akintunde Sawyerr, said the development reflected the impact of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope policy drive on access to higher education.
The statement said: “Crossing the one-million mark represents more than data; it represents renewed hope for a generation of Nigerians determined to rise above financial barriers to education.
“It is a testament to visionary leadership, sound policy design, and the collective efforts of all stakeholders driving this transformative agenda.”
NELFUND reiterated that it is committed to continuous process improvement to make sure “every qualified Nigerian student, regardless of background or location, can access education funding with transparency, efficiency, and dignity”.
The agency described the programme as non-discriminatory, stressing that it benefits Nigerians across religions and ethnic backgrounds, and helps to unify national aspirations through equal learning opportunities.
NELFUND said it remained focused on ensuring “no Nigerian is denied the opportunity to learn, grow or contribute to national progress because of financial limitations”.
Seven outstanding pupils have qualified to represent the Enugu Region in the grand finale of the 2025 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee competition scheduled to hold later this year in Lagos.
The finalists emerged on Saturday during the Enugu Regional Finals of the competition held at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu, which brought together top young spellers from the Southeast and South-South regions.
Out of over 500 pupils initially screened from the two regions, 20 qualified for the regional contest from which the final seven: Nelson Ede Chidibem, Praise Ihionu, Emeke Nwokeocha Samuel, Treasure Oyibosu, Mitchel Atanu Ufedo, Munachimso Onyemaechi, and Oyingba Douglas-Naingba, emerged to fly the region’s flag at the national stage.
MTN’s Regional Operations Manager (East), Callima Inino, expressed delight at the students’ performance and commended their resilience.
He noted that the mPulse Spelling Bee has continued to serve as a platform to nurture literacy, confidence, and ambition among young Nigerians.
“For us to have the top seven pupils going to represent the Enugu Region is a great thing for me, their parents, their schools, and the pupils themselves.
“This is the seventh edition and we’re doing everything to sustain the project. Every year, there’s an icing on the cake. This is our first regional competition, and next year, maybe something even greater,” Inino said.
He further announced that the overall winner of the competition would receive a ₦5 million education grant, a smartphone, and a laptop, and would serve as the MTN CEO for a day as well as the mPulse Face of the Year.
He added that the winner’s teacher will receive ₦500,000, while the winner’s school will be awarded 10 laptops, 10 routers, and a ₦10 million development grant.
Temilolu Salako, MTN’s Senior Manager for Youth Development, said the competition was more than a spelling challenge but a platform for nurturing dreams.
“We’re not only here to spell words; we’re here to nurture dreams. Remember, every letter you spell today represents your future,” He told the contestants.
He commended the pupils for their dedication and urged them to aim higher as they prepare for the national finals, where the ultimate winner will go home with ₦5 million in prizes.
The Master Speller, Mr. Titus Bankole, encouraged participants to view the competition as a learning experience and to continue honing their pronunciation and vocabulary skills ahead of the finals.
“This is the beginning of a memorable chapter in your life,” he said. “Don’t take it as losing out; competitions inspire you to do greater things in life.”
Paul Obe Okechukwu, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Mobilisation, lauded MTN for its continued investment in education and youth development.
“This initiative is not only empowering our kids but sharpening their brains and encouraging them to read. I urge the winners to keep excelling, and those who didn’t make it should not lose hope because there’s always another time,” he said.
The event was marked by excitement and applause as pupils, teachers, and parents celebrated the seven finalists who will now represent the Enugu Region at the national mPulse Spelling Bee finale in Lagos.
Students of the Ondo State-owned Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), have protested the upward review of their tuition by the institution’s management.
It was learnt over the weekend that the university increased the school fees, particularly for freshers (newly admitted students), ahead of the 2025/2026 academic session.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Students’ Union Government (SUG) expressed displeasure over the hike, describing it as “sudden and inconsiderate.”
The statement, jointly signed by the SUG President, Salami Akeem, General Secretary, Bakare Jamiu Abiodun, and Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mosadoluwa Ajidaba, said the increment has thrown many students especially those who are self-sponsored – into “fear and dismay.”
“It is pertinent to inform the student populace that we are not unconscious of the increment in school fees, which has left many in fear and dismay, especially those who sponsor themselves.
“While we understand that not all of us are born with silver spoons, rigorous efforts and consultations are ongoing to seek a reduction in the highly increased fee.
“Students, especially the newly admitted ones, are strongly advised not to make any payment or proceed with registration until our engagements with management yield positive results,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the university management has announced that academic activities for the 2025/2026 session will commence on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
In a separate statement signed by the Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, the institution directed all fresh and returning students to resume as scheduled, noting that registration and lectures will follow a phased calendar.
According to the statement, online screening and registration for fresh students – as well as registration for returning students – will take place between November 9 and 15, while physical resumption and faculty-based course exposition are slated for November 16 to 22.
It added that lectures are expected to begin on November 23, 2025.
The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has reinforced its resolve to transform tertiary education landscape with the commissioning of five major infrastructure projects worth over ₦1.06 billion at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu.
The projects, completed through TETFund’s special intervention programme, were unveiled on Friday in a colourful ceremony that attracted government officials, representatives of the academic community, and stakeholders from across the Southeast.
Representing the TETFund Board of Trustees, Mrs. Esther Onyinyechukwu Ukachukwu, lauded IMT’s management for its resilience and accountability in ensuring timely completion despite economic challenges.
“The completion of these projects is not just an achievement for IMT, but a reflection of what transparency and determination can achieve in our public tertiary institutions.
“Out of ₦7.24 billion allocated to IMT for infrastructural development over the years, the school has successfully accessed ₦6.22 billion and delivered on key projects that are transforming its learning environment,” Ukachukwu said.
She commended the Enugu State Government for its continued support to IMT and assured that TETFund would sustain interventions that drive innovation, particularly in digital learning and artificial intelligence.
TETFund Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny S. T. Echono, praised IMT’s management for its prudence and efficient project execution amid harsh economic realities.
“Institutions like IMT have demonstrated that with integrity and good management, public funds can achieve their purpose. Even with fluctuating market conditions, they have remained focused and delivered results,” Echono stated.
He informed the TETFund Board had approved additional allocations to assist institutions with stalled or distressed projects, noting that such interventions were already yielding visible results nationwide.
Echono, however, emphasized the importance of maintenance culture, urging IMT to preserve the newly commissioned structures to ensure long-term value.
IMT Rector, Professor Gozie Ogbodo, assured that the institution remained committed to maintaining all TETFund-supported facilities.
“We take maintenance seriously. Every project you see today has been freshly painted and refurbished. Our aim is to create a modern and functional learning environment that inspires students and staff alike,” Ogbodo said.
Billionaire businessman and Chancellor of Augustine University, Femi Otedola, has announced a N4 billion donation to fund the construction of a new Electrical and Electronics Engineering block on the university’s campus.
The facility marks the second phase of the Dame Doja Otedola Faculty of Engineering, named in honour of Otedola’s mother.
In a statement on X, Otedola described the donation as a tribute to his mother and a commitment to advancing education.
He wrote: “As Chancellor of Augustine University, I am proud to present my ₦4 billion donation for the construction of a new Electrical and Electronics Engineering block.
“This marks the second phase of the Dame Doja Otedola Faculty of Engineering a tribute to my beloved mother and to the power of education to transform lives.
“Nigeria’s future depends on the brilliance of its young people, and we must continue to invest in the institutions that shape them… F.Ote”.
The new block will expand the university’s capacity to train engineers in critical disciplines, addressing a national need for skilled technical professionals.
Organiser of “Believers Talent Competition”, Modupeola Awofolaju, has urged government to create more enabling environment for youth development programmes, rather than imposing restrictions.
She said there is need for collective efforts to nurture next generation of talented Nigerians.
Speaking in Ibadan during an event tagged ‘Believers Talent Competition’, with the theme “Evolve and Thrive,” Awofolaju called on government agencies, parents, and private organisations to collaborate in empowering young people with skills and purpose.
According to her, engaging teenagers in their early life’s is crucial in preventing them from channelling their energy into negative pursuits.
She said: “We’ve been running vocational clubs in public schools since 2017, and this outreach started last year. Our goal was to engaged teenagers early, if we don’t, they will channelled their energy elsewhere. We want to catch them young and help them discover their purpose.”
While commending schools and students in attendance, Awofolaju decried bureaucratic and religious restrictions that often hinder outreach programmes from reaching more schools, particularly public institutions.
“We sometimes face resistance from government agencies because of concerns over religion. But this isn’t about religion, it’s about the future of our children. We have talented young people; the sky is not their limit”.
Pastor Tayo Ogunleye of Harvesters Church, Ibadan, challenged educators and policymakers to reviewed Nigeria’s outdated school curriculum to accommodate creativity and practical skill development.
He said, “Our schools still use decades-old curriculums that don’t reflect current realities. We need to start looking at the potential of each child beyond academics. If we don’t, we’ll keep reproducing old failures.”
He urged parents to balance education of their children with talent discovery.
Highlight of the competition include scholarship award to Usman Mariam of Angels College after winning in Art Category.
The award winner described her experience as both humbling and inspiring.
She said: “My victory shows that my talent means a lot and I can do better. I feel proud and want my colleagues to also follow in my footsteps.”
The event, which featured public presentation of Mrs. Awofolaju’s new book titled “DISTRACTION — Overcoming the Subtle War Against Focus”, also showcased creativity across art, music, and dance, featured spirited performances from Angels College, Living Stone College, J Nissi College, and Akobo Baptist Church Teenagers Fellowship.
In the Art Category, Angels College took the first position, followed by J Nissi College and Akobo Baptist Church in third place. Living Stone College won the Music Category.
History was made at the Choice De Immaculate Demonstration School (CIDS), Obosi in Idemili North LGA, Anambra State following emergence of Miss Saka Aliyat as the overall best graduating student of the school.
Aliyat, an indigene of Osun State, bagged awards in multiple subjects, including Igbo language, English, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Economics and Marketing.
The Yoruba girl, who smiled home with several gifts, received additional awards of Best Student in Neatest/Complete Uniform, Affinity to Students, Most Hardworking Student, Most Disciplined and Most Punctual.
Speaking during the 15th Valedictory/Sendforth Ceremony & Prize Giving Day of the school, Aliyat advised her fellow pupils to focus on their studies with more interest, enthusiasm, dedication, diligence and hardwork.
She urged them to follow the instructions of both the school teachers and that of the Director who she described as her mentor if they intended to also come out in flying colors.
Earlier, Director of the school, Solomy Ochokwu, advised the graduating students to be courageous, resilient and embrace integrity and work ethics as they join the larger society.
He urged them to always reflect on the times they spent in the school where they were taught to become the best students in the world.
He said, “We are confident that as you embark on your next chapter, you will do so with boldness and purpose. As you step into the world, I urge you to be courageous.
“Wear the armour of resilience because the world will test you. And when it does, fight back. Fight with integrity, with honesty in all your dealings, and with a relentless work ethic.
“We hope you hold fast to the values and morals that have been instilled in you during your time here. I assure you, if you persist in these virtues, success will surely come your way.
“Remember to look back with gratitude, especially to your parents, who supported you throughout your education. Honour them, and your blessings will be unending,” she said.
