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  • Group lifts old people in Lagos

    Group lifts old people in Lagos

    As part of its  commitment to community service and care for the elderly, Women in Out of Home Advertising Business (WOHAN) has paid a courtesy  visit to the Old People’s Home, Yaba, Lagos.

    The team warmly received by a dedicated caregiver of the facility, also conducted a guided tour of the home.

    During the tour, they were given insight into the daily routines, welfare needs, and general living conditions of the elderly residents with the caregiver’s dedication and compassion towards the residents been evident and commendable.

    Members of WOHAN  interacted closely with the elderly citizens.

    The session included moments of joy and bonding as they joined them in singing familiar songs and sharing words of encouragement, love, and moral admonition.

    The interaction created a lively and emotionally uplifting atmosphere for both the residents and the visiting team.

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    As part of the visit, WOHAN made donations aimed at supporting the comfort and well-being of the residents.

    Items donated included fruits, foodstuff, a 250litres deep freezer, Wi-Fi support, adult diapers, toiletries, a 25kg gas cylinder filled up, and other essential household items as identified by the facility management.

    The visit according the coordinator Mrs. Adeola Odesanya was impactful and fulfilling, reinforcing WOHAN’s mission of compassion, service, and social responsibility.

    “The smiles, prayers and appreciation from the elderly residents served as a strong reminder of the importance of caring for and honoring senior citizens in our society,” she added.

    Odesanya reiterated WOHAN’s  commitment to supporting vulnerable groups and  exploring  opportunities to make meaningful contributions to community development.

  • Lagos empowers next generation of business leaders

    Lagos empowers next generation of business leaders

    Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to economic inclusion, wealth creation, and job sustainability as beneficiaries of the Startright Lagos Entrepreneurship Programme graduated and pitched innovative business ideas at a graduation and business pitching ceremony held last Thursday at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.

    The programme, which commenced with 250 aspiring entrepreneurs and MSME owners from across the state, was designed to equip participants with practical skills, the right entrepreneurial mindset and strong business foundations required to build viable enterprises capable of creating jobs and contributing meaningfully to Lagos’ growing economy.

    Chairman  House Committee on Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Foluke Osafile described the programme as a timely and strategic intervention that empowers young people to build financially sustainable businesses.

    She commended Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment for their sustained commitment to youth empowerment and economic development, noting that the programme clearly reflects a Lagos that is working.

    Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe described Startright Lagos as a deliberate, results-driven initiative designed to move Lagosians from ideas to execution and from survival to sustainability.

    According to him, the programme goes beyond conventional training, focusing on building confidence, discipline, and capacity, stressing that “Startright Lagos is about helping our people start right, grow right, and build businesses that will stand the test of time,” while reaffirming the state government’s commitment to empowering citizens to become wealth creators and employers of labour.

    Implemented in partnership with W-Holistic Business Solutions, the programme featured weeks of intensive training in financial literacy, record keeping, brand development, digital skills, and business growth strategies. Participants underwent a blend of physical and virtual bootcamps supported by hands-on mentorship and exposure to real-world business tools.

    Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Mrs Lolade Aina emphasised that StartRight Lagos was designed to help entrepreneurs build strong foundations from the outset, noting that many businesses fail not because ideas lack potential but because they are built on weak structures. She added that the quality of ideas presented reflected the effectiveness of the training and the readiness of the graduates for long-term success.

    Also, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm. Mrs. Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu, highlighted Lagos’ youth population, estimated at 60 per cent, as a major asset for economic growth while stressing the need for targeted skills development and strategic collaboration to fully harness its potential.

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    Managing Director of Prothrive Astute Heights Ltd Mrs. Oluyemisi Obe emphasised the importance of intentional foundations, resilience and continuous learning in building sustainable businesses.

    Providing an overview of the programme, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of W-Holistic Business Solutions, Mrs. Lanre Oniyitan outlined the structure and outcomes of the initiative, while the Ministry commended facilitators, mentors, and members of the panel of judges for their professionalism and dedication.

    The high point of the ceremony was the final pitching session, where Ms. Oluwakemi Olajiyan of Nutraboom Nutrition emerged overall winner, receiving ₦2 million. Ms. Olamide Olajide of Shoniverse Leathers emerged winner of second prize of ₦1.5 million, while Ms. Deborah Fadunsanya of The De Savour Shop emerged third with ₦1 million. In addition, 30 existing business owners received laptops, while 170 participants were supported with financial grants.

    The event rounded off with certificate presentations and moments of celebration, with the cutting of the graduation cake reflecting the Ministry’s core values of purpose, excellence, and growth.

    Startright Lagos is a flagship initiative under the THEMES Plus Agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, aligned with the administration’s vision for economic inclusion, skills development, wealth creation, and sustainable employment.

  • Abubakar, Yakubu claim singles titles at Merit Tennis Open in Lagos

    Abubakar, Yakubu claim singles titles at Merit Tennis Open in Lagos

    Nigeria’s top-ranked male doubles tennis player, Yusuf Abubakar, and the country’s highest-ranked female junior player, Ohunene Yakubu, emerged champions in the men’s and women’s singles events respectively at the Merit Tennis Open, held at the National Stadium tennis courts, Surulere, Lagos.

    Abubakar defeated Daniel Adeleye, the current No. 1 player in the Nigeria Tennis Federation men’s singles rankings, to secure the men’s singles title and a ₦500,000 winner’s prize. Adeleye received ₦250,000 as runner-up.

    In the women’s singles final, Yakubu overcame Bright Emmanuel to claim the ₦500,000 top prize, while Emmanuel earned ₦250,000.

    The tournament, organised by Merit Petroleum Nigeria Limited in collaboration with the Mainland Tennis Club, also featured junior and wheelchair tennis events, underscoring its commitment to inclusivity.

    In the junior category, Issa Yahya defeated Nathaniel Aluko to emerge champion, earning ₦150,000, while the runner-up received ₦100,000.

    In the wheelchair tennis events, Nigeria’s top-ranked men’s wheelchair player, Alex Adewale, claimed the men’s title and ₦400,000, with Yusuf Wasiu finishing second. 

    In the women’s wheelchair final, Nigeria’s number one-ranked female wheelchair player, Chituru Nwaozuzu, defeated Andrea Usoh to win the title and a ₦400,000 prize.

    Speaking on the rationale behind the sponsorship, the Chief Executive Officer of Merit Petroleum Nigeria Limited, Tokunbo Onasanya, said the initiative was designed to promote local talent and encourage inclusivity in sports.

    “Every time I come to the stadium, I see the hard work these players put in, from children to women and the physically challenged. This is our third year of supporting tennis here, and we hope to continue to grow the tournament and show our local talent”, she said.

    Onasanya stressed that the company was deliberate about equitable rewards across all categories, adding that every participant received some form of incentive.

     “Whether they are men, women or wheelchair players, everyone is rewarded fairly. We want to encourage them to represent Nigeria locally and internationally”, she added.

    President of Mainland Tennis Club, Tochukwu Adino, described the event as a maiden edition at this scale, noting that plans were underway to elevate it to a national tournament.

    “We decided to make it an open tournament to invite players from Lagos and its environs to showcase their talents. Next year, we are planning a bigger edition that will be included in the Nigeria Tennis Federation calendar”, Adino said.

    He noted that sports remained one of the most effective tools for youth empowerment and urged government and corporate organisations to invest more deliberately in grassroots competitions.

    “There are many empowerment programmes by politicians, but sports is the language young people understand. Through sports, we can get many youths off the streets, help them discover their talents and even build careers”, Adino said.

    He added that tennis had helped transform the lives of several youngsters at the National Stadium, noting that many started out as ball boys before being mentored by club members.

     “Some of these boys you see today came from the streets. They started by picking balls and, through mentoring and scholarships from club members, they have developed into competitive players”, he said.

    Adino called on corporate bodies to see tennis sponsorship as a viable corporate social responsibility (CSR) platform, stressing that sustained funding was key to the sport’s survival.

     “Tennis is an expensive sport. Without corporate sponsorship, it is difficult to sustain development. We are building a structure that will outlive our tenure and continue to support young talents,” he added.

    Also speaking, Yemi Onasanya said the cumulative prize money for the tournament exceeded ₦10 million, noting that most of the players were nationally ranked.

     “The winners of both the men’s and women’s categories earned ₦500,000 each. The tournament is open, but seeded players are selected based on national rankings”, he explained.

    The wheelchair tennis champions used the platform to highlight challenges facing para-sports athletes in the country. 

    Adewale described the Merit Tennis Open as the highest-paying para-sports tennis tournament in Nigeria, while calling for improved sponsorship and equipment support.

     “We have the talent, but we lack equipment and sponsorship. If we get the right support, we can compete internationally”, he said.

    Nwaozuzu, who recently won three gold medals at the West African Para Games in Abeokuta, said inadequate equipment and funding continued to hamper wheelchair tennis development in Nigeria.

    “I believe that this new president will do better. Because in the wheelchair tennis, they don’t have a standard wheelchair to play the tennis. If at all we have a standard wheelchair, because I have been in tournament outside country, I don’t see what they are playing.

    But what they are using to defeat us is the wheelchair that they are using. They are using a better wheelchair than us” .

  • Foundation distributes food items to 400 families in Lagos

    Foundation distributes food items to 400 families in Lagos

    The Muyiwa Ajayi-Bembe Foundation has brought relief to over 400 families in Lagos Island area through its annual Women Christmas Outreach 2025, aimed at easing hardship and spreading hope during the festive season.

    The outreach, organised by Ajayi-Bembe Olumuyiwa & Friends, held at the Obanikoro Palace, Lagos Island, featured the distribution of food items including 10kg bags of rice and bottles of vegetable oil to beneficiaries, mostly women and vulnerable households.

    Speaking at the event, founder of the foundation, Muyiwa Ajayi-Bembe, a public servant, said the initiative was driven by compassion and a sense of responsibility to the community, especially in view of the current economic challenges facing many families.

    He explained that the Muyiwa Ajayi-Bembe Foundation was established in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many residents were struggling to meet basic needs.

    “The foundation started during COVID with a few of my friends. People had serious concerns about feeding, so we were doing outreaches every other week, moving from one zone to another,” he said.

    According to him, what began as emergency support during the pandemic later evolved into a structured community development effort involving friends, brothers and volunteers within the area.

    After the lockdown period, the foundation organised a football competition to promote unity and social bonding among youths, and subsequently provided three boreholes across the community to improve access to clean water.

    Ajayi-Bembe noted that the Christmas outreach has now become an annual tradition of the foundation, targeted at supporting families at the end of every year.

    “Every December, we do a giveaway like this. This year alone, we are reaching over 400 families. We see it as our duty, especially considering the hardship in the country,” he said.

    He added that the outreach was also meant to complement the efforts of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in cushioning the effects of economic reforms on citizens.

    “This is just to ease a little bit of tension during this period and support what Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing for the country,” he said.

    Ajayi-Bembe urged residents to remain peaceful and patient, expressing optimism that ongoing reforms would yield positive results.

    “They should continue to be peace lovers and patient. The APC government is trying its best. We can see changes and modifications. I can guarantee that the country will be better,” he assured.

    Obanikoro and Secretary of all Traditional Chiefs in Lagos, Chief Adesoji Adeniji Ajayiwele, commended the foundation for its sustained commitment to grassroots welfare and community development.

    He described the initiative as timely and impactful, noting that such acts of generosity strengthen communal bonds and offer hope to vulnerable residents, particularly women, during difficult economic periods.

    The monarch urged other well-meaning individuals and organisations to emulate the gesture by supporting community-based interventions that directly touch the lives of the people.

    Some beneficiaries who spoke at the event commended the foundation for the timely intervention.

    One of them, Mrs. Ajibola Owolabi, said the gesture brought joy to many families this Christmas.

    “Hon. Muyiwa Obanikoro called us to come here today to give us rice and oil for Christmas. There are some people who have the money to do this but they can’t. I’m very happy and appreciative. I pray God continually bless him and uphold his family. He should keep doing what he does,” she said.

    Another beneficiary, Mrs. Monilola Aromokun, also expressed gratitude, describing the outreach as a consistent show of support for women in the community.

    “We give thanks to the Honourable for this kind gesture. He shouldn’t relent. He has proven himself to help women in need and in return we say thank you,” she said.

    The Women Christmas Outreach forms part of the foundation’s broader commitment to grassroots support, community development and social welfare in Obanikoro and its environs.

  • Motherland festival delivers world-class homecoming experience in Lagos

    Motherland festival delivers world-class homecoming experience in Lagos

    The inaugural edition of the Motherland Festival concluded on December 20, 2025, marking a significant cultural moment in Lagos.

    The festival, which brought together over 8,000 attendees, marked a powerful return to roots while introducing a new global standard for live entertainment experiences in Nigeria.

    Designed as more than a festival, Motherland was intentionally positioned as a homecoming. It created a space where Nigerians from different cities, countries, and generations could reconnect through music, culture, and shared experience. From the energy in the crowd to the stories exchanged on and off the stage, the festival reflected the emotional and cultural significance of coming home.

    Motherland delivered a world-class experience from start to finish. The festival featured a state-of-the-art stage, international-standard sound and lighting, immersive visual production, and carefully designed environments that mirrored leading global festivals. Every detail was executed to meet international benchmarks while celebrating Nigerian culture in a modern, elevated way, signaling a shift in what large-scale festivals in Nigeria can look and feel like.

    Music sat at the heart of the homecoming. Headlined by Omah Lay, the lineup brought together a deliberate blend of artists, including Seyi Vibez, Odumodublvck, The Cavemen, Fola, Qing Madi, and more. The diversity of the lineup offered attendees something distinctly different, bringing live instrumentation, soulful storytelling, and high-energy contemporary performances together in a way that reflected the full spectrum of Nigerian music across generations.

    The response from attendees reflected the scale and impact of the experience.

    “This was honestly the best festival I’ve been to,” shared one attendee. “The energy, the production, the crowd — I’ve never experienced anything like it in Lagos before.”

    Beyond the stage, Motherland delivered real and tangible impact. The festival activated the local creative and service economy, engaging hundreds of vendors, producers, technicians, designers, and hospitality partners. It also reinforced Nigeria’s growing position as a destination for cultural tourism, with many attendees traveling specifically to reconnect with home through the Motherland experience.

    A central pillar of the festival’s impact was its partnership with First Bank of Nigeria, whose involvement went far beyond sponsorship. First Bank played a critical role in supporting diaspora participation by offering on-ground access to essential financial and identity services. Attendees were able to open bank accounts, complete BVN and NIN registrations, and access banking support directly at the festival grounds, removing long-standing barriers often faced by Nigerians returning from abroad.

    By bringing these services into the cultural space, First Bank helped make reconnection easier, more practical, and more inclusive. From airport touchpoints to festival activations, the bank enabled a seamless experience that supported both celebration and long-term engagement with home.

    Jameson and Pepsi were also key sponsors of Motherland Festival 2025, supporting the overall festival experience. Their presence contributed to the energy, social atmosphere, and scale of the event.

    Reflecting on what comes next, the founders of Motherland Festival shared their long-term vision:

    “Motherland has always been bigger than December. Our focus is on creating spaces for connection and celebrating excellence as a global community all year round. As Motherland continues to grow, we’re excited to keep honoring who we are as a people, whether we’re at home or far away.”

  • Bus crushes sweeper to death in Lagos

    Bus crushes sweeper to death in Lagos

    Tragedy struck on Meran Road, inward Iyana Ekoro axis of Lagos, on Saturday as a female operative of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) was crushed to death by a commercial bus while carrying out routine sanitation duties.

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the victim was hit by a blue Ford commercial bus loaded with bottled and canned beverages, with registration number BDG 495 YH.

    According to LASTMA spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, Preliminary findings revealed that the bus was being recklessly and unlawfully reversed on the expressway when it rammed into the unsuspecting sweeper. 

    The impact, particularly to the victim’s head, was severe and resulted in instant death.

    He said, “LASTMA Officers on active traffic surveillance duties around the Meiran axis swiftly mobilised to the scene upon receipt of the distress report. It was discovered that the driver had absconded from the crash site in a desperate attempt to evade accountability. Demonstrating exceptional alertness and professionalism, the officers immediately pursued the fleeing vehicle, successfully apprehended the driver and escorted him and his vehicle back to the scene of the incident.”

    He further stated that the driver and the implicated vehicle were later handed over to officers of the Meiran Police Division for further investigation and prosecution in line with existing laws. 

    “The remains of the deceased were respectfully evacuated from the scene by LAWMA officials using an official LAWMA vehicle for further necessary procedures,” he said. 

    The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep sorrow over tragic and avoidable loss of an innocent life, describing the occurrence as both distressing and preventable.

    He extended condolences to the bereaved family, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased, praying for strength to bear the loss.

    Bakare-Oki condemned the act of reversing on an expressway, describing it as a serious traffic offence and a clear violation of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018. 

    He warned motorists against reckless and unlawful driving habits that continue to claim innocent lives.

    The LASTMA boss reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to traffic safety enforcement and the protection of lives on Lagos roads, while commending the vigilance and professionalism of the officers involved in apprehending the fleeing driver and ensuring justice.

  • Lagos introduces LASHMA-AID to save lives before payment

    Lagos introduces LASHMA-AID to save lives before payment

    Lagos State has unveiled the LASHMA-AID Emergency Services Programme, a state-led initiative designed to ensure that no resident is denied life-saving treatment because of cost, delay, or administrative hurdles.

    The programme, launched on Thursday at The Providence Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, institutionalised emergency medical stabilisation for insured and vulnerable residents under the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme (ILERA EKO), in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Executive Order on Mandatory Social Health Insurance.

    Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, described the initiative as a major milestone in the state’s drive towards universal health coverage and responsive governance.

    She said LASHMA-AID underscores the Sanwo-Olu administration’s resolve to guarantee unhindered access to healthcare, noting that health remains a key pillar of the THEMES Plus Agenda.

    According to her, the state has continued to invest in infrastructure, digital health systems, and emergency response, citing reforms such as the Smart Health Information Platform linking public health facilities, the expansion of 24-hour primary healthcare centres, and the upgrade of more than 27 PHCs under the World Bank-supported IMPACT Programme. She added that Lagos now has over 336 functional PHCs.

    Dr Ogunyemi said the state had also reduced out-of-pocket spending through health insurance and strengthened protection for the poor by dedicating one per cent of its Consolidated Revenue Fund as an equity fund, now increased to ₦3 billion annually and made a first-line charge.

    She explained that LASHMA-AID fills long-standing gaps in emergency response by prioritising life-saving care before enrolment checks or payment, stressing that residents can access the service through the emergency numbers 112 or 767, or the LASHMA toll-free line, 0800 000 LASHMA.

    Emergency evacuation and response, she said, would be handled by the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), which has been strengthened with ambulance bikes and Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) ambulances. 

    LASAMBUS, she disclosed, has attended over 5,000 cases this year, with approval already given for the recruitment of more nurses and bike riders.

    Chairman of the House of Assembly Committee on Health, Hon. Musibau Aina Lawal, said the programme translates legislative intent into practical, life-saving action by ensuring that emergency stabilisation takes precedence over payment or verification.

    He noted that the initiative aligns with the Lagos State Health Scheme Law and the Governor’s Executive Order, adding that the legislature would continue to support policies that place the preservation of life first.

    Earlier, Chairman of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Dr Adebayo Adedewe, said the programme was developed from Sections 6 and 7 of the Executive Order after extensive engagement with both empanelled and non-empanelled healthcare providers.

    He explained that LASHMA-AID covers up to 48 hours of in-facility emergency stabilisation for enrollees and vulnerable residents, supported by clear operational guidelines, provider handbooks, and escalation pathways.

    “No emergency patient should be turned away,” Adedewe said, noting that the initiative integrates hospitals, ambulance operators, and LASHMA’s coordination unit into a single response chain for pre-hospital care, transfers, and early stabilisation.

    In an interview, he urged residents not to delay seeking care during emergencies, assuring that LASHMA would bear the cost of stabilisation while affected persons are subsequently enrolled on the insurance scheme. 

    He added that data-driven monitoring would track response times and outcomes, with a target response time of two to three minutes for emergency activation.

    Permanent Secretary, LASHMA, Dr Emmanuella Zamba, said the programme addresses a major gap that previously discouraged private facilities from participating in emergency care due to uncertainty over payment.

    She explained that both empanelled and non-empanelled facilities are now covered for emergency stabilisation, with LASHMA assuming responsibility for payment, whether or not the patient is insured, once identified as vulnerable.

    Special Adviser to the Governor on the parastatal Monitoring Office, Hon. Ibrahim Obanikoro, described LASHMA-AID as a step closer to global best practice, praising the affordability and inclusiveness of the Lagos health insurance scheme.

    Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Lagos Health District II, Dr Dayo Lajide, said the initiative would significantly improve emergency referrals, particularly in urgent cases such as obstetric transfers from PHCs to general hospitals.

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, represented by the Director of Public Affairs, Mr Adesegun Ogundeji, pledged sustained public enlightenment to drive awareness and utilisation of the programme.

    Closing the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Dr Oluwatoni Adeyemi, said the success of LASHMA-AID would be measured by lives saved, faster response times, and renewed public confidence, as Lagos positions itself as a model for organised emergency care in Nigeria.

  • UBA, Lagos partner in $100m vehicle financing programme

    UBA, Lagos partner in $100m vehicle financing programme

    A programme that will boost transportation in Lagos through funding of vehicle ownership was launched yesterday.

    No fewer than 3,500 beneficiaries are projected to benefit from the scheme which is intended to be extended to other parts of the country.

    The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc is anchoring the programme with $100 million financing partnership with the Lagos State Government, CIG Motors and Lagride.

    Lagride is a hailing transport firm partly funded by the Lagos State Government.

    The deal is expected to redefine urban mobility and deepen financial inclusion.

    By the partnership, tagged “Drive-to-Own”, UBA will be the key financier, offering loan subscriptions that will allow beneficiaries to own CIG/Lagride vehicles with equity payments of 10 per cent of the total cost, with the remaining amount payable over a period of 48 months.

    The scheme was unveiled at the Lagos State Government Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.

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    UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO) Oliver Alawuba highlighted the bank’s visionary commitment to inclusive economic growth, fostering MSME development, and creating tangible opportunities for the younger generation.

    He said: “This partnership with Lagride is transformational. It will drive inclusivity for economic growth and ensure progress for everyone. We are committed to helping you, and please believe me, this is just the beginning.”

    The UBA boss used the forum to share a deeply personal testament about the power of opportunity, saying, “my father started as a driver. I went to school – thanks to that income… That will be the story of some of you, and even better,” he said.

    Alawuba also emphasised UBA’s focus on solving immediate, on-the-ground challenges, added: “I am personally looking at the immediate problems we have right here in Lagos as we will be connecting the initiative to broader urban development. Lagos will change because of us. And we will not stop in Lagos; we will move beyond.”

    Echoing the GMD’s vision, UBA’s Head, SME Banking, Babatunde Ajayi, noted that this partnership is built on a fundamental rethinking of traditional banking models.

    “Not every business has a shop. Some businesses have wheels. Every commercial driver is running a business, yet they have remained outside formal finance. We did not ask if they fit our old structures; we designed credit that fits their reality, and that is the way we work at UBA,” Ajayi said.

    Lagride Chairman Diana Chen, who noted that the company had built a data-driven and credit-ready mobility platform for drivers, identified transportation as the backbone of Africa’s economic future.

    Chen said: “Lagride now stands as the most structured, data-driven and credit-ready mobility platform in Nigeria. “This data enables UBA to evaluate driver performance with accuracy and confidence, creating a new standard for bankable driver financing.”

    The partnership strategically aligns with the strengths of the three organisations, with UBA providing the financial backbone, CIG acting as a trusted provider of viable business opportunities and Lagride offering a technology-driven platform that guarantees a sustainable and dignified livelihood for its driver-partners.

  • US missions, Lagos host leadership dialogue to empower young entrepreneurs

    US missions, Lagos host leadership dialogue to empower young entrepreneurs

    The Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria, in partnership with Lagos-based Pelse Consulting, recently organized a business and leadership dialogue aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs and nurturing emerging business leaders nationwide.

    The event, themed “Dialogue that Matters: Building Businesses that Strengthen Communities,” drew participants from across Lagos State, including members of the Mandela Washington Fellows Network and selected entrepreneurs from the Amplifier Business Clinic—an initiative of the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development in collaboration with Pelse Consulting.

    At the dialogue, Ms. Raisa Dukas, Public Diplomacy Officer of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, emphasized the crucial role of small and medium-sized enterprises in driving Nigeria’s economic growth. She described entrepreneurship as a key engine for innovation, job creation, and improving livelihoods.

    Ms. Dukas reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to fostering partnerships between Nigerian entrepreneurs and U.S. businesses to promote sustainable economic development. 

    She also highlighted the Mandela Washington Fellowship Programme, a six-week leadership initiative that gives young African leaders the opportunity to study at leading U.S. universities and engage with top business and policy experts.

    “Our hope is that this dialogue marks the beginning of a lifelong relationship with the fellows, as we continue to track the growth and impact of their businesses and initiatives,” she said.

    The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, represented by the Deputy Director, Youth Engagement and Education, Mrs. Rasheedat Umar, said the dialogue was designed to stimulate conversations around building sustainable businesses, strengthening communities and preparing young people for future leadership roles.

    Ogunlende noted that the theme of the event emphasised the need for businesses to look beyond profit and focus on people, job creation and value addition to society, adding that such an approach leads to stronger communities and more resilient economies.

    He commended the U.S. Consulate for its continued support for youth development and entrepreneurship in Nigeria, while also acknowledging the contribution of Mandela Washington Fellows to the local business ecosystem through their global exposure.

    Highlighting the impact of the Amplifier Business Clinic and Accelerator, Ogunlende said the programme, which began with five beneficiaries receiving ₦5 million, has grown into one of Lagos State’s most impactful youth enterprise initiatives. He disclosed that seven entrepreneurs received ₦15 million in 2024, while ₦20 million was disbursed to 10 business owners this year.

    In his lead presentation, the Managing Partner of Pelse Consulting, Mr. Adeniji Boboye, emphasised the central role of businesses in job creation, economic growth and social development. Quoting World Bank data, he said Small and Medium Enterprises contribute about 48 per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product and account for 70 per cent of employment.

    Boboye stressed the need for sustainability in business operations, noting that long-term success must balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility. 

    He added that data-driven Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives could help address key community challenges such as unemployment, limited access to services and infrastructure deficits.

    Speaking on the impact of the fellowship, a Mandela Washington Fellow, Mr. Seyi Akinsanmi, said the programme had reinforced the importance of innovation, collaboration and community-focused leadership. 

    Entrepreneur and Amplifier Business Clinic participant, Mr. Opeoluwa Shobowale, said the training had sharpened his strategic thinking and improved his ability to scale his business sustainably.

  • Lagos shares cash, food items with pensioners

    Lagos shares cash, food items with pensioners

    • Reaffirms care for retirees

    The Lagos State Government yesterday put smiles on the faces of hundreds of its pensioners as it distributed cash and food items to retired public servants, reaffirming its commitment to those who spent their productive years building the state’s public service.

    The welfare packages, distributed during an event titled: “Welfare Packages Distribution For Lagos State Pensioners” held at the NECA Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, formed part of the state’s end-of-year support for pensioners to help them celebrate the festive season with dignity and comfort.

    For many of the beneficiaries, the gesture went beyond food and cash, it was a reminder that their years of service are still remembered.

    “This is not just about rice or money. It shows the government still cares about us,” said Mrs. Comfort Adeyemi, a retired clerical officer. “With this support, my family will enjoy Christmas.”

    Another pensioner, Mr. Samuel Ogunleye, a former works supervisor, described the initiative as reassuring. “Some states forget their pensioners. Lagos has shown that once you serve, you are not forgotten,” he said.

    “I feel respected,” said Mrs. Funke Lawal, a retired education officer. “When a government remembers you like this, it gives peace of mind.”

    Mr. Johnson Adebayo, a former local government staff, described the initiative as thoughtful. “It’s not about the size of the package. It’s about the message that we still matter,” he said.

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    Speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, described the retirees as “retired but not tired,” noting that their sacrifices and dedication laid the foundation for the Lagos State Public Service as it exists today.

    “Each time I see you, you look radiant, healthy and full of life. This administration truly values you,” Agoro said, adding that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu places a high premium on the welfare of both serving officers and pensioners.

    According to him, the initiative reflects the government’s resolve not to abandon workers after retirement. “This distribution could not have come at a better time, especially with Christmas around the corner,” he said.

    The Head of Service explained that the programme is a two-day exercise, with the Ikeja Division hosting the first phase, while pensioners in Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos and Epe divisions will receive their packages simultaneously the following day to ensure equity and convenience.

    Agoro assured the retirees that the state would continue to prioritise prompt pension payments, healthcare initiatives and welfare programmes to ensure that their retirement years remain peaceful and fulfilling.

    He commended the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC) for organising what he described as a seamless and orderly exercise, stressing that the safety and wellbeing of pensioners remained paramount.

    The Director-General, Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC), Mr. Babalola Obilana on his part assured the pensioners of sustained care and inclusion, reinforcing the message that retirement does not mark the end of relevance.

    Welcoming pensioners to the ceremony, Obilana said the exercise was designed not merely to distribute items, but to honour the men and women whose labour helped shape Lagos State’s public institutions.

    He said: “We are gathered here not merely to distribute items, but to honour, appreciate and reaffirm our commitment to the wellbeing of our senior citizens, who dedicated many years to strengthening the Lagos State Public Service. The Lagos State Public Service stands on the strong foundation built by your labour, discipline and unwavering commitment. You served through evolving times, embraced reforms, met challenges with resilience and upheld the values that define our public institutions today. Your contributions continue to shape the systems and policies we rely on.

    “You are more than retirees, you are pioneers whose legacy remains woven into the fabric of the Public Service. The Lagos State Government is sincerely grateful for your years of dedicated service. Retirement only magnifies the significance of your contributions, and you deserve to enjoy this phase of life in dignity, comfort and fulfilment. Be assured that we remain fully committed to keeping you valued, supported and connected to the system you helped build”.

    He further stated that this welfare initiative is one of the State Government’s deliberate efforts to support our veterans of service, especially during festive seasons when an additional gesture can bring relief and warmth.

    “Though the packages may appear simple, they carry deep meaning, they represent our genuine care for your wellbeing and a reminder that you remain an integral part of the Lagos State Public Service family. We recognize the diverse needs of our retirees, and this programme is one of several initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion, care and an improved quality of life.

    “Beyond today, LASPEC remains committed to strengthening pension administration, health support and welfare services, with plans to streamline paymentprocesses, expand social and healthcare assistance, and introduce innovative measures for easier access to pension information. These efforts are designed to make every retiree’s experience more seamless, secure and dignified, reflecting our ongoing dedication to your wellbeing.

    “Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has consistently emphasized that those who served the State must enjoy the rewards of their labour. Under the THEMES+ agenda, our retirees remain a priority, and the goal is clear — a Lagos where every pensioner feels respected, supported and valued. This administration will therefore continue to uphold policies that ensure prompt pension payments, improved healthcare access and sustainable welfare programmes. Your retirement years should be a season of rest and reassurance. Today’s packages are a small but heartfelt expression of our gratitude. Please accept them as a symbol of our respect and appreciation for your decades of service. Your legacy lives on in the work we continue to do”, Obilana said.

    As the event drew to a close, pensioners left the hall clutching their packages with a renewed sense that Lagos State remains a government that respects its workers, even in retirement.