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  • My stewardship as Lagos AG, by Pedro

    My stewardship as Lagos AG, by Pedro

    Lagos State Ministry of Justice has held its annual ministerial briefing to commemorate the first year of the second term of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu Administration, reports ADEBISI ONANUGA

    Lagos State Ministry of Justice, has over time, dedicated itself to ensuring an effective and efficient justice, promoting human rights and access to justice and providing quality legal advice and representation to other agencies of the government. It is also not in doubt that the state is blazing the trail for other state governments, including the Federal Government in justice administration.

    The interest of the people of the state and government are protected through easy access to justice, law reforms and adherence to the rule of law.

    Last week, the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN) gave an account of his stewardship in the last one year to the people of the state at a Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa Ikeja.

    Judgment secured by the state

    Pedro disclosed that the state government, through  its agencies and departments, secured over 410 judgments from the various courts during the year under review.

    Office of the Public Defender (OPD)

    A break down of the judgments showed that the Office of the Public Defender (OPD) secured over 320 judgments in various courts across the state and also approved 100 Plea Bargains in the last one year.

    He said the OPD  in  addition tothis received a total of 4,272 petitions and 1,788 court cases (family, industrial, civil, and criminal court cases) across seven of its office locations, including six outstation offices, and OPD headquarters, or through the courts,” he disclosed.

    The Attorney-General also revealed that the OPD handled 1,812 child-related cases, 316 domestic violence-related cases, and 29 rescue missions, adding that the agency further received a total of 1,988 cases via court and correctional centres (Criminal, Industrial, Civil, and Family related cases), out of which 448 had been successfully concluded, with the Office receiving the total sum of N59,326,549 on behalf of its clients and beneficiaries.

    Public Prosecution (DPP)

    Pedro disclosed that the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) on the other hand obtained 40 judgments in courts and 11 Plea Bargains, with seven cases struck out and four others discharged in the last one year, adding that the directorate also received 377 files for legal advice, out of which it issued 229 advice, with 148 files pending.

    Read Also: EYN charges Nigerians to support govt

    The commissioner also said that 158 Plea Bargain applications were received by the Directorate, out of which 100 were approved, two declined and 56 pending.

    Notable cases

    He listed some of the notable cases handled by the DPP in public interest to include suite LD/20598C/2022- The state of Lagos Vs ASP Drambi Vandi charged with the offence of murder of a lawyer, Mrs Bolanle Raheem. The incident occurred at Jubilee bridge, Ajah on December 25, 2022. ASP Vandi was pronounced guilty as charged before the court and was sentenced to death by hanging.

    There was also the case of Osibanjo Oluwaseun, charge ID/21468C/23. The defendant was a state government staff bus driver accused of driving his bus in a reckless manner and colliding with a moving train on March 9, 2023 resulting in the death of some of his passengers. The prosecution has called some witnesses and more are expected to testify before closing its case.

    There was also the coroner inquest into the death of Sylvester Oromoni Jnr. of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos alleged to have been beaten by some senior boys and forced to drink an unknown substance. On April 15, 2024, based on testimonies and evidences, the coroner concluded that the boy’s death was due to negligence on the part of the deceased parents and family doctor.

    Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA)

    Aside from securing 50 judgments, the Attorney-General revealed that the agency handled 4,641 adult domestic violence cases and 2,976 children cases, with 118 rape cases and rescued 64 people in the last one year, adding that the agency obtained over 50 judgments in courts, 36 restraining order, handled 652 social welfare cases, concluded mediation in 107 cases and reached over 800,000 people in the community through advocacy and sensitisation.

    Landmark Judgment

    One of the DSVA landmark judgment was that of the rape case involving Bishop Oluwafeyiropo Daniels of I-Reign Church and Ministry, Lekki and some church members. The embattled bishop was arraigned on April, 2023 and was convicted on January 26, 2024. The cleric was sentenced to life imprisonment by the trial judge, Justice Rahman Oshodi of an Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, Ikeja.

    DSVA programmes

    These include Kings and Queens Club in schools, Club mentorship, training of SGBV Desk Officers at Police Stations, the Hidden Crime Initiative, Special Healing and Therapy Session, Empowerment and Psychological Support services to survivors and perpetrators of SGBV among others.

    Civil Litigation

    In addition, Pedro said the Directorate of Civil Litigation responsible for representing the state in all civil matters involving the state government, its Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) during the period under review, received a contingent liability in terms of Claims in Court to the tune of N1, 602, 430, 012, 517.71, explaining that this is in addition to the contingent liability in favour of the state government which has increased to N95, 644,801,659.71.

    Directorate for Citizens’ Rights

    The Attorney-General said that  the Directorate for Citizens’ Rights in the period under review received 755 petitions on family matters, 131 petitions on employee/employer matters and 744 tenancy matters, out of which 539 (family matters), 80 (employee/employer) and 577 (tenancy matters) were resolved respectively.

    The directorate also obtained two judgments in favour of the state government. During the period under review, the directorate collected a total sum of N7.3 million on behalf of complainants  out of which N3 million was awarded by the court on behalf of a petitioner.  

    Citizens’ Mediation Centre (CMC)

    He said the Citizens’ Mediation Centre (CMC) in the period under review received a total number of 35,655 matters for mediation, out of which 20,691 were treated and resolved, adding that 14,964 matters were undecided as a result of non-attendance of concerned parties at mediation sessions.

    “Based on the agency’s guiding principles and core values that justice is delivered irrespective of status or socio-economic background, the agency received the sum of N183,721,134 on behalf of parties being the settlement of debt related matters,” he noted.

    Special Offences (Mobile) Court

    Pedro also disclosed that a total number of 10,266 offenders were arrested, arraigned and convicted for various minor offences by the Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court, saying that the actions of the court had been able to reduce criminal activities of miscreant by charging them to court and ensuring custodial sentencing.

    Special Taskforce on Landgrabbers

    The Attorney-General added that the Lagos State Special Taskforce on Landgrabbers in the period under review received 582 petitions out  of which 120 were concluded, saying that other notable achievements included 71 enforcement approvals and 33 inscription approvals.

    He said to protect the right to possession and occupation of any property in Lagos State and guide against the use of force, the taskforce obtained nine judgments in favour of the state government, disclosing  that there are currently 35  land grabbing cases in court.

    Administrator-General and Public Trustee

    The agency obtain letters of administration in respect of estates under its management, recover assets of the estate and settle justified claims against the estate of deceased persons. The agency reseal letter of administration where the deceased has properties located outside then state and manage same in the interest of the beneficiaries.

    The agency also act as receivers or administrators during pendency of court cases to preserve estates from going into waste, verify and disburse death benefits to next of kin of civil servants who die in active service.

    During the period under review, the office resolved 46 death benefit  cases, received 245 petitions, 253 probate/court processes and has 74 existing court matters.

    In addition, the office took over 604 estates via court orders, renovated 20 estates and obtained 32 letters of administration to ensure clarity, control and reduction in potential disputes among family members or other interested parties. The agency in addition received N250,887,419.78 as death and insurance benefits while it disbursed N186,668,00.49 to beneficiaries of estates while it received N4,306,781,253.47 from rent.            

    Lagos Criminal Information System (LCIS)

    Pedro further said during the period under review, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice spearheaded the expansion of the Lagos Criminal Information System (LCIS), significantly enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of criminal justice administration.

    He explained that this initiative involved the integration of advanced technology to create a comprehensive and accessible database of criminal records, stating that key features included real-time data entry, improved case tracking, and seamless information sharing among law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the judiciary.

    “The scaling up of LCIS aims to reduce case backlogs, ensure accurate and timely access to criminal records, and foster greater transparency and accountability within the criminal justice system. This strategic enhancement not only streamlines operations but also strengthens public trust and safety in Lagos. The LCIS has recorded a total of 62,117 cases/inmates between 2018 and May 9th, 2024,” he said.

  • Why Lagos tourism is going digital, by commissioner

    Why Lagos tourism is going digital, by commissioner

    Lagos is digitising registration of hospitality processes to make the industry data-driven,  Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka has said.

    She spoke with stakeholders in the hospitality sector  at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island. Key players in tourism and hospitality discussed issues, trends, and opportunities.

     Benson-Awoyinka stressed the vital role of the sector in development of Lagos State, noting its contribution to employment and its role as a showcase for the rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. “We are aware of challenges our industry faces,” said the commissioner, referencing impacts of COVID-19, evolving customer expectations, and increased competition.

    ‘’This is an opportunity to address these challenges and adapt to the changing landscape by embracing technologies and sustainable practice.”

     Benson-Awoyinka outlined trends reshaping the sector, including digital transformation, eco-tourism, and personalised customer experiences.

    She stressed importance of staying ahead to remain competitive and relevant.

     She reaffirmed the state’s commitment to creating enabling environment for the sector, including review of policy to support growth, innovation, and sustainability, as well as improvement in infrastructure and security.

     “We are digitising our registration processes to make the sector data-driven,” she said.

     “This supports growth and expansion and enhances securityin and around hospitality establishments. We seek your cooperation in this exercise.”

    Highlighting the importance of collaboration, Mrs  Benson-Awoyinka called for unified efforts across the entire value chain, from local artisans to hoteliers, travel agencies, and transport providers.

    “By working together, we can create a seamless and memorable experience for tourists, enhancing Lagos as a prime destination.”

    She also addressed the need to curb drugs, vices, and environmental nuisances to maintain a safe and attractive environment for visitors.

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     The event featured expert panel discussions focusing on critical topics such as “Enhancing Compliance in the Hospitality Sector” and “Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthening Collaborative Efforts.”

     These sessions provided a platform for practitioners to engage with government officials and industry leaders, sharing insights and exploring new partnerships. In her concluding remarks, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka encouraged active participation in the discussions and underscored the value of feedback in shaping the future of tourism in Lagos State.

     “Together, we can overcome the challenges, harness the opportunities, and set new benchmarks for excellence.”

    She called for a continued dedication and commitment to the growth and success of Lagos State’s vibrant hospitality sector.

  • Lagos moves to curb multiple taxes

    Lagos moves to curb multiple taxes

    Lagos State government has assured stakeholders in the tourism sector that it will harmonise tax payment to ease tax burden on them and Lagosians generally.

    Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Special Adviser to the governor on Tax AbdulKabir Ogungbo; Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Ayodele Subair, and others, gave the assurance at a stakeholders’ engagement with operators in the hospitality sector.

    The commissioner said the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for the hospitality sector to thrive because the sector plays a vital role in the state’s economic development.

    She called for cooperation as the ministry review its policy frameworks to make the industry data driven through technology and new innovation.

    Read Also: Lagos must think out of the box

    Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka, who affirmed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to develop the sector, said: “Our policy frameworks are being continually reviewed to ensure they support growth, innovation, and sustainability. We are also focused on improving infrastructure, enhancing security, and promoting Lagos as a prime tourist destination”.

    Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola; General Manager of the Lagos State Parking Authority, Mrs. Olabisi Adelabu, Special Adviser to the governor on Transport, Sola Giwa and others, who discussed ‘Enhancing Compliance in the Hospitality Sector’, harped on corporation among stakeholders.

  • Lagos must think out of the box

    Lagos must think out of the box

    Quite honestly, I am going to leave my speech and speak to you from the heart. Having listened to the man from Singapore, Gregory Vijayendren, former President, Law Society of Singapore, I think if there is nothing else and if indeed we are serious and sincere about making change in this country, there is something we need to take away from here. Singapore, like he said, is a tiny dot on the world map; you hardly know where it is, but like he said it is a city state that has earned its place in the world. Lagos, by sheer coincidence, also is like a dot in the country; it’s less than 0.4 % of the size of this country.

    So, technically, it also can be a dot and of that 0.4 %, 1/3 (one third) of it is water. But, by sheer coincidence, it is the commercial, economic nerve centre of the country. Singapore holds its place too as a major economic hub worldwide today. Lagos is home to so many things – our international businesses, a lot of start-ups businesses that are all the best names we have in Africa today, all the unicorns, the creative industry, the entertainment industry; they are all sitting here in Lagos and, by some coincidence, we have also acknowledged that Lagos also is taking a lead in the judicial sector reforms and access to justice. But guess what, Singapore that is a tiny little country have also done so, but they have done it more. So, we have gotten good comment from the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation. Everybody has spoken well about Lagos, but I am not satisfied yet. Lagos now needs to take this to an international scale. We cannot sit back and expect that because we are the best in our country that equates us to being one of the best in the world. Singapore is less than five million people, maybe six million today and we are 224 million.

    They don’t have two heads. They don’t have the kind of the minds and strength we have in this state and this country. The question is, what is wrong with us? The man said to us that the three big pictures are: the rule of law (there is no nation that wants to earn its beef anywhere and does not have rule of law as one of the beacons for deciding how it engages). They were small and there is a likelihood that they can get extinct. Guess what, Lagos is also small, Lagos indeed is very small and so we need to be able to think out of the box.

    They have no resources, we have no resources as well, but we have said we are the commercial, economic nerve centre, but we cannot sit back and hope that is the best we can do. Because in 1965, less than 60 years ago, the per capita of Singapore was about $500; now the man says it is $88,000. Where was Lagos and where are we now? Where is our country? Are we just going to be the giant of Africa for nothing? Do we just want to take that accolade that says we are the largest black nation; in what sphere? He mentioned to us that Singapore is what it is today because one: ease of doing business. You can register a business in less than 30 minutes. Maybe we have improved a little bit; it used to be like two-three months. Maybe we can do it in three days now in Nigeria. They clear a container in Singapore in seven hours. In Nigeria, it used to be three-four months. Now maybe it has reduced to a month or three weeks now, but we are not near where it should be.

    They have one seaport, we have two seaports; now we have a deep seaport, but they have several. And one of the other things they have also done, they ensure that the very best of their citizens work in the public service. All the best that go to Oxford, Harvard in Singapore find themselves in the Public Service. We also have a Public Service that we can be proud of in Lagos, but we need to be able to raise the bar, we need to be able to do a lot more than where we are today. Maybe the only thing that Singapore have over us, which they have the bragging right and we don’t is that they are a Sovereign State and we are a subnational. We are constricted and restricted by a bigger name called Nigeria and so maybe we cannot fly as high as we want to; so maybe we cannot walk as fast as we want to, maybe we cannot think as quick as we want to but that cannot be an excuse for us. And that is why when we come to summits like this we need to ask ourselves, “do we just want to make it a rhetoric or we want to change a life and the opportunity God has given to us for the better?”

    Leadership is all about what you put in your heart and the sense of purpose that you bring to it and by sheer coincidence this Government has given the opportunity, in less than five years I have appointed 24 new Justices into Lagos State Judiciary, the highest ever and, later in the week, we are going to add additional 13 to it. From 63, we are going to go to 76. It’s not the clap; it is how you use the opportunity that has been given to us; it is how we bake the cake to be big enough for everyone to share. Of course, there are issues; of course, there are challenges, but guess what, the man that we brought here to be the guest speaker has challenges. Singapore was just a fishing village.

    The colony of Lagos had been in existence in the 19th century. There was a tram in Lagos in the 19th century; there was a tram on Lagos Island. So, what is wrong with us? Maybe some people constricted us to reduce our level of growth, but that cannot be an excuse; that cannot be a reason for us not to be able to fly high, think out of the box, and do things quicker, faster and smarter. The man left us with a few actions; he said to us that Singapore has one of the best judicial systems in the world, a tiny country. They are respected internationally on issues around mediation and dispute resolutions. Yes, we have them; thankfully, we can clap for ourselves; we have Office of the Public Defender, Citizens Mediation Centre; we have Alternative Resolution. Yes we do; how well can it compete globally? As your governor, it is not just to be a local leader. They say he is a king in a country, city or community of the blind he who has one eye. But now our eyes are opened, we even have glasses. So, there are four that we have. We need to be able to think local but act global. The global space is available for us to pick. To my Lord Justices, it’s not about excuses; it’s about what are the core that we need to do here today? It’s about the bench and the bar. How do we collaborate? How do we ensure that the opportunity that this space has given to us, all of us are using it to the best of our capacity because I am not sure we are driving at that capacity well enough? And he left us with some unique features – there has to be collaboration with the government, which is where I stand; the Bench, the Bar; it’s not by lip service. We need to understand that there is a clear separation of power; we need to respect each other, but everybody has to bring something to the table. He says to us that we need to think fast; we need to move very quickly; we need to be able to tweak things; meaning we need to think out of the box, challenge the status quo and ask ourselves, “is this the best that we can get?”

     The best you can get does not necessarily have to be like my brother the President of the Nigerian Bar Association said in road construction and the rest of it. The best can be in our intellectual property, in our capacity to think and do things right. And, of course, he also said to us that technology is a strong enabler and yes, we also can pride ourselves that during that very difficult time of COVID, we were able to use Zoom like other people. Our cabinet was able to do a lot of things virtually. Yes, we have a lot of those things, but my take this morning is the fact that we have gone to a territory.

    Read Also: Lagos is digitizing registration processes for hospitality sector, says commissioner

    We’ve gone to a territory that needs to challenge us. Singapore is a tiny city State and that is why I am comparing it with Lagos, I don’t want to use Nigeria as a big excuse. I do like for like and we need to be able to raise the bar. And the things that we can do are not so far off. And that is why I am not touching the speech that the Attorney-General has prepared. We all know it, we are this and that; we are doing this, No! Constitutional things. We want State Police; we have been on this conversation for how long? Just as simple as what we all swore to, the protection of life and property. And how do we need to do it? What are the things that must be in place for us to do that? Decentralize these things, let us have State Police. We are still making politics about it; we are making it political; it is right, it is not right. Everybody is just being careful in today’s age, and you can curb all the criminal excesses that we see. It is not rocket science. And by the way, even when we get the State police, how prepared are we? How many correctional facilities do we have? How well have we also unbundled that to ensure that even the Justices and Milords that are working. I know that it is filled up. How well have we unbundled to ensure that we can actually build more correctional facilities; rehabilitation centres, because that’s a part of the rule of Law? If there is meant to be a punishment, there is need for a facility where it will be addressed. I am not learned so I will be very careful, just educated. I know too well that there is a wide difference between access to justice and implementation of it, but I know clearly that when we come to engagements like this, sessions like this, it shouldn’t just be talk shop; it should be an opportunity for us to challenge ourselves to speak truth to power, to push ourselves so we can make the best of it and we can leave here a lot better. As a government, what are the kind of things that we also are doing to see if we can catch up with the likes of Singapore?

    For example, we are planning to make Lagos an International Financial Centre, where Lagos can be a destination for investments, a safe haven for investments worldwide, but for us to do that we need a strong judicial system. That will be one of the strongest points that anybody will be looking for; that will be one of the strongest protection that will be required and will be needed. How well do we ensure that people who do not have access to justice still have a fair hearing and the belief that the Judiciary is the last hope; how well? And how well, even me as a leader, political leader or whatever it is that I am called, do I use my office to the best to ensure that the greatest good is always for the greatest number? This, for me, are the pertinent questions that we need to ask ourselves as a country. And this morning, the conversation is still about you, the Judiciary, like Mr. President said yesterday, “Oba di meji ni ilu kan”. I won’t talk much. Now everybody is waiting for a legal interpretation of who should be the Emir or not. The buck stops right at your desk again. Everybody will be pulling you here and there and that is why fairness, equity must come to play. And it is very interesting, because even in the news today, the Honourable Attorney- General of the Federation sued all the 36 States because we are not giving autonomy to the third tier of government. Though the only mistake is that some of us are in compliance. So, the Honourable Attorney-General’s Office should have done due diligence to know which States are not in compliance so that you don’t carry all the 36 States, and be able to show example that out of the 36 States, four, three, two are exempted; it’s 31 that I am taking to the Supreme Court, and that is part of the back work that we need to do. You can see that the conversation is about you today, Judiciary, because those are the two principal conversations that are out in the news today. You are the last hope of the poor man, middleman and rich man. Let’s use this engagement to really be able to reform this sector.

    • Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke extempore at the Justice Reform Summit 2024 with the theme: “Enhancing the Administration of Justice for Growth, Investment Protection and Security in Lagos State” on May 27 at Marriott Hotel, Ikeja
    • Read In Touch on Page 28. It returns to this page next week.
  • How election polarised Lagos PFN

    How election polarised Lagos PFN

    After two years of unending ‘cold war’ within the leadership fold of the Lagos State Chapter of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), an election into the office of the PFN Chairman was conducted during the week to the amazement of a lot of stakeholders within the fellowship, ADEOLA OGUNLADE, in this write-up looks at the feud, and the future of the Christian body

    The PFN, Lagos Chapter, had its election during the week, the Founding Pastor of Global Impact Churches, Ogudu, Lagos, Rev Yemi Davis, won with 10 votes; Pastor Esosa Ize-Iyamu had 8 votes; and the Senior Pastor of the Foundation of Truth, Rev Yomi Kasali, came third with 7 votes while other officers elected unopposed, including the General Overseer Abundant Life Gospel Churches, Rev. (Mrs.) Janet Onaolapo as Deputy Chairman; Rev. Udo of the Foursquare Gospel Church as the Secretary; and Pastor Sola Osunmakinde as Treasurer.

    The election of Rev Davis as the new chair of the Lagos PFN has not gone down well with some of the members of the Christian body.

    An indication that all was not well within the Lagos PFN was the sudden resignation during the week of the National Vice President (Southwest), Archbishop Alagbala Bishop Osa Oni.

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    It will be recalled that the National President of the Fellowship, Bishop Wale Oke who has papal oversight over all the state chapters, gave an order in February 2024 to the ex-Vice President of the fellowship, South West, Archbishop Alagbala John Osa-Oni, to appoint a new chairman for the chapter.

    Osa-oni took up the challenge; he fell back to an 11-member advisory committee that has been in existence for years in the fellowship to carry out the assignment.

    On the 8th of February, an election was conducted, and the Senior Pastor of Agape Generation International Church, Rev Toyin Kehinde, emerged as the winner. Sixty percent of the members that made up the State Advisory Council (SAC) were present during the February 8th poll.

    It was reported that four candidates contested the election, including the Rev. Dr. Toyin Kehinde; The Senior Pastor of Foundation of Truth Assembly, Rev. Yomi Kasali; Pastor Femi Paul, and the incumbent PFN Chairman, Apostle Eyinnaya Okwuonu.

    The election that produced Rev Kehinde as the chairman came with a lot of flaks, one of those who was alleged to have been a contestant in the election, Rev Kasali, reacting to an online report, publicly denied participating in the then February 8 PFN Lagos State chairmanship election.

    He said, “I never participated in the just concluded PFN election as reported by some online publications.”

    Rev Kehinde’s victory in the election was short-lived; a few weeks after Bishop Wale Oke canceled the election.

    Bishop Oke in a letter annulling the February 8 election, said another election had been slated for  June 30 with an expanded SAC, and will be conducted by the National Publicity Secretary of the Fellowship, Bishop Emmah lsong.

    But a source in the fellowship said the May 28 election which produced Rev Davis as the chairman of PFN Lagos State,  had the nod of the National President, Bishop Wale Oke.  This was against the earlier announced date of June 30th.

     “How Davis came into the race is still a surprise to many,” a source within the fold said.

    The source stated further that Davis was not known to have shown any interest in the PFN leadership before then. “He was just by the side-line running his ministry,” another source said.

    Davis is known within the hierarchy of the PFN as a protégé of Bishop Wale Oke.

    This confirmed the insinuations that it was Bishop Oke who prevailed on Davis to take up the challenge.

    To confirm the undercurrent politics and realignment within the PFN, during the 17th National Biennial Conference of the PFN held last year in Bayelsa, Rev Davis and another popular pastor in Surulere, Lagos, were very visible, and played major roles in the programme.

    “While the idea of election is a great one that should be encouraged, it seems the handling of the exercise itself is a big distraction and a recipe for ungodly politicking,’ a source said.

    The Nation gathered that out of the 11 State Advisory Council of PFN in Lagos, three persons representing areas like Epe, and Ikorodu were removed without any proof of committing any infractions that would have warranted their removal.

    Three members of the SAC were removed a few days before the May 28 election. The act has caused disaffection within the fellowship.

    The 8-member panel was later expanded to 33 and conducted the election that produced Rev Davis.

    The May 28 election result was ratified and confirmed by Bishop Oke in a statement issued on May 30 by the National PFN.

    While Davis deserves to be cheered and encouraged to take up the task of leading the Lagos PFN, there are signs that the election has left mutual suspicion among leaders of the fellowship.

    Speaking with The Nation, one of the contestants said that he was angry, and he had made his position on the election known to the leadership of the fellowship. “I am angry, I can talk now. I will talk at the right time”.

    It was reported that 3- members of the committee that presided over the Lagos State election were drawn from the Southsouth (Bishop Emma Isong); North Central (Bishop Bakare); with the PFN National President Chief of Staff (Ogun State) as the Committee Secretary.

    This may have angered the ex-vice President of PFN, Archbishop Osa Oni who felt slighted as against the run of play within the fellowship.

    Osa-Oni, as the then Vice President had the statutory duty to conduct the election into State chairmanship positions of the PFN in all the six Southwest States in Nigeria.

    Speaking with The Nation, the General Superintendent of Holy Spirit Mission (The Happy Family) Bishop Charles Ighele appealed to all members of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria in Lagos  to put their differences aside and see how unity and peace can be pursued. Bishop Charles Ighele made reference to Ist Corinthians 10:23 where Apostle Paul wrote “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient; all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not”.

    He pleaded with all aggrieved persons to work towards obeying the scriptures and work with the national president of PFN Bishop Wale Oke and the PFN leadership in Lagos state so that the Lagos State PFN can be edified.

  • How Lagos Innovation bill will incentivise businesses –Alake

    How Lagos Innovation bill will incentivise businesses –Alake

    The Honorable Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology (MIST), Olatubosun Alake has revealed that the proposed Lagos Innovation Policy will spur economic renaissance and corporate-startup synergies, among other benefits.

    The Honourable Commissioner said this while fielding questions from journalists at the end of the stakeholder engagement with different stakeholders including government agencies, the organized private sector among others, at the Eko Innovation Centre, Ikoyi, Lagos.

    Among the stakeholders present at the occasion are Adaora Ikenze – Director, Public Policy, Meta; Prof. Peter Bankole – COO, Pan Atlantic University and LASRIC Member; Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho – Founder, Futuresoft; LASRIC and Alex-Adedipe Adeleke – DOA Law, among others.

    Shedding more light on the key elements of the proposed Lagos Innovation Bill, which aims to serve as a catalyst for innovation across all sectors, from startups to established corporations, he remarked, “The Lagos Innovation Bill is a two-pronged approach. Firstly, it localizes the federal government’s Startup Act, tailoring it to the unique needs and dynamics of Lagos State. Secondly, and perhaps more significantly, it goes beyond just nurturing startups by actively encouraging innovation within large companies and small businesses alike.”

    Read Also: Stakeholders seek solution to SRHR barriers in Nigeria 

    The Commissioner emphasised that the bill’s inclusive nature is a strategic move to create a vibrant and interconnected innovation ecosystem, where startups and established players can collaborate, learn from each other, and drive collective growth.

    “Imagine a situation where a startup’s innovative solution is adopted and supported by a major corporation like MTN or Airtel,” Alake posited.

    “Or a situation where our universities are driving a thriving entrepreneurial culture, spinning off ten new companies each year, supported by the resources and mentorship of industry giants. This is the future we are working tirelessly to manifest through the Lagos Innovation Bill.”

    To incentivize large corporations to actively participate in this ecosystem, the bill proposes a range of measures, including tax incentives, fee waivers, advocacy support, patent assistance, and incentives for driving research and development initiatives within universities.

    Alake highlighted the role of universities in this innovation renaissance, recognising them as fertile grounds for cutting-edge research and entrepreneurial talent. “Our universities are crucial to this process,” he asserted. “In creating stronger collaborations between academia and industry, we can accelerate the translation of research into tangible products, services, and economic opportunities.”

    When questioned about the potential impact of the Innovation Bill on the state’s budget allocation for science and technology, currently hovering around 9%, Commissioner Alake expressed confidence that the bill would catalyse a significant increase.

    Earlier in his welcome address, Victor Afolabi, Chief Executive Officer of the Eko Innovation Centre emphasised the significance of the stakeholder engagement as a co-creation event, where collective deliberation would shape the regulatory incentives and create an inclusive innovation ecosystem. He commended the commissioner’s vision and commitment to advancing innovation in Lagos State, describing the state as the innovation engine room of the country and a globally recognized hub for innovation.

  • Lagos leads as 70, 603 write common entrance exam into unity colleges

    Lagos leads as 70, 603 write common entrance exam into unity colleges

    A total of 70,603 candidates, on Saturday, sat for the 2024 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) conducted by the National Examinations Council (NECO) into the unity colleges nationwide.

    Registrar of NECO, Prof Dantani Wushishi, disclosed this while monitoring the exercise on Saturday at Model Secondary School, Maitama and Government Day Secondary School, Wuse 2 Abuja.

    He stated that the examination was conducted in 599 centres across the country.

    Wushishi said 33,335 males registered for the 2024 NCEE, while 37,268 females registered for the exercise totalling 70,603.

    He lamented that the 2024 registration was lower than that of 2023 which had 34,064 males and 38,801 females, totalling 72,865.

    Lagos State had the highest number of applicants with 17,751, while Federal Capital Territory (FCT) came second with 10,209 applicants and Anambra came third place with 4,972 applicants 

    Bayelsa, Borno and Gombe had the least number of candidates participating in the exercise, after registering only 133, 138 and 174 candidates respectively.

    The NECO boss attributed the low registration in 2024 to economic factors as the exam body had slightly raised the registration fee and parents, who are grappling with the effect of the economy, were responsible for sponsoring candidates at this level.

    Wushishi said: “For the males and females, last year’s registration was higher than this year’s registration. This could be attributed to so many factors; economic factor is the most prevalent factor that could hinder this large registration.”

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    He refuted claims of NECO registering underage children for the National Common Entrance Examination, clarifying that students participating in the examination were either 10 years old or left with a month or two to be 10.

    Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, expressed satisfaction with what NECO has put in place to ensure a smooth and seamless exercise.

    Walson-Jack disclosed that there were 55 centres writing the NCE in the FCT, stating that everything went on smoothly and students were placed in conducive examination halls to sit for the exercise.

    The Chairman, Senate Committee on Education, Basic and Secondary, Sen. Lawal Adamu called on National Assembly members to provide an educational foundation for every child in their constituencies.

    He lauded NECO for the smooth conduct of the exercise.

  • Atewogboye  rewards  21 winners at Lagos Skating Championship

    Atewogboye  rewards  21 winners at Lagos Skating Championship

    By Sherifdeen Amusa

    Segun Oyetade of Ogun state and Deborah Franklin of Benue state have emerged champions of the Lagos State Skate championship 2024 final under 18yrs+ male and 11-17yrs female category respectively.

    The programme was organised by the office of the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon.  Adebanji Atewogboye popularly known as Skibanj in collaboration with Lagos State Sport Commission.

    According to Atewogboye, he said the programme was organised in line with Governor  Sanwo-Olu T.H.E.M.E.S-PLUS agenda.

    “With a vision of the office to promote and develop grassroots sports across the LCDA in the state and to promote a healthy lifestyle through my office.”

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    The event held to celebrate the children’s day, saw  Oyetade  in first position in the male category  while Olusanjo Adeoluwa of Oyo state took second and Abdulazeez Habeeb from Ondo state took third place Meanwhile,  Deborah Franklin and Abosede Adepoju Osun State took first and second place respectively while Enitan Babatunde from Lagos state took third place in the female under 17 category.

    Other winners in different categories included; Isaac Isaac with tag no 142 (Skate Brothers Category), Remi Mineruini tag no 129, Emmanuel Akporoloko with tag no 019 (11-17yrs male category), Smart Olamide tagged 116 (5-7yrs male category) and Babatunde Esther with tag no 085 (5-7yrs female category).

    Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Lagos Roller Sports Association (LRSA), Phillip Oyede who led some coaches to the event, including the Big Heart Skaters’ coach, Kingsley Nkisa, and Young Qualities International Skaters Club’s coach, Mike Awom, said the skating competition in Lagos has never had it in massive scene with cash prizes for skaters except under the present Gov. Sanwo-Olu’s administration adding that he expects the next edition of the competition to be bigger.

    He, however, urged the Lagos state government to consider the association as part of the Lagos State Sports Commission Association.

    The Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Health, Hon. (Dr.) Oluwatoni Adeyemi acknowledged the significance of the initiative by SKIBANJ, adding that the competition would promote physical fitness and mental wellness on the athletes.

    Her counterpart, Hon. Damilare Orimoloye, the Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Sports, gave a stern warning to some skaters who are fond of chasing moving vehicles along roads in Lagos to desist from the habits, assuring that Lagos State is bringing sanity and professionalism to the sport.

    First prizes were given thirty thousand naira each while second prizes were give twenty thousand each and third prizes were given ten thousand respectively.

    The winners appreciated Atewogboye for organizing the championship and for his kind gesture

  • Lagos, Caverton partner on locally-built ferries

    Lagos, Caverton partner on locally-built ferries

    By Emmanuel Oladesu

    Lagos State and Caverton Marine have inaugurated 15 local OMIBUS FRP 40-passenger ferries to revolutionise and enhance waterways transportation and address  traffic congestion.

      The project is a public private partnership to advance  transport infrastructure, provide reliable, safe, and efficient transportation in conformity with global sustainable development goals (SDG).

      Speaking at the ceremony yesterday at Caverton Marine Ship yard at Badore-Ajah, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said with 22 per cent of the landmass covered by water and waterways surrounding 42 of its 57 local governments and LCDAs, there is potential for marine transport.

      Sanwo-Olu said the investment is designed to facilitate safe and efficient movement of people, goods, and services, contributing to growth.

      The governor said the 15 locally-built 40-seater ferries marks the first phase of a plan to enhance marine transportation in Lagos, with 25 ferries.

     Chief Executive Officer of Caverton Group, Olabode Makanjuola, emphasised importance of the project in enhancing mobility and reducing traffic congestion as well as to improve quality of life for residents through strategic infrastructure development.

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      He said the project aligns with the transportation vision of the administration, which aims to create an integrated transportation infrastructure to enhance connectivity and mobility with improved water transport system.

      Makanjuola noted that the ferries, built in Lagos, are certified by Bureau Veritas and Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and are equipped with safety features, ensuring a secure and comfortable journey for passengers.

      He said the project symbolises Caverton’s commitment to local development, innovation, quality and safety, while noting the support of the state in integrating water transportation into its intermodal system, rather than merely a corporate social responsibility for coastal communities.

     

  • Lagos to get climate adaptation plan

    Lagos to get climate adaptation plan

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will, on June 4, launch the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan (LCARP) and the Lagos Climate Change Mainstreaming Strategy, during the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit.

    The governor will lead an array of special guests, including former Governor Babatunde Fashola to the event which holds at the Lagos Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island.

    Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab is the host.

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    The summit, themed ‘Accelerating Climate Finance and Championing Local Adaptation Initiatives’, will feature a special session showcasing former Governor Fashola and Governor Sanwo-Olu.

    The lead paper, Exploring Climate Adaptation Finance’, will be delivered by the C40 Regional Director for Africa, Dorah Modise, while two former Commissioners for the Environment, Tunji Bello and Dr Muiz Banire, will feature in a special session on ‘Perspective on Climate Change through the Lens on High Level Pioneer Governance’.

    Minister of Communication Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, will also attend to speak on ‘Localizing Technology to upscale Local Adaptation Initiative’.