Lagos takes health and hygiene advocacy to the grassroots

Yomi Durojaye 

…urges residents to prioritise their health

As part of efforts by the Lagos State Government to cascade health and hygiene advocacy to the grassroots and improve personal healthcare practices across communities, the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Government and Rural Development, has commenced an Advocacy and Community-Based Health Sanitation Campaign Programme in Oriade Local Council Development Area.

The advocacy programme, which is expected to spread across the five divisions of the State, is geared towards creating healthy habits and encouraging residents to pay greater attention to their health, particularly through the adoption of simple and basic health practices that can help mitigate the spread of diseases and infections.

While delivering the keynote address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs Kikelomo Bolarinwa, disclosed that the administration of Mr Governor remains committed to improving health, hygiene and the overall living conditions of residents across the State.

Bolarinwa reiterated that the importance of a clean and healthy environment to the well-being, productivity and overall development of communities in the State cannot be overemphasised, hence the need for the advocacy campaign.

While urging community leaders, residents and youths to actively participate in the programme and support the campaign by making cleanliness and proper sanitation a daily way of life, Bolarinwa affirmed that the Advocacy and Community-Based Health Sanitation Campaign Programme provides an opportunity to strengthen public awareness, encourage responsible sanitation practices, promote behavioural change and deepen community ownership of collective environmental health responsibilities.

Similarly, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Mr Babatunde Durojaiye, in his welcome address, disclosed that the commitment of Mr Governor to healthcare and hygiene in Lagos State necessitated the advocacy campaign, particularly as part of efforts to deliver quality healthcare services and improve the living conditions of residents across the State through the T.H.E.M.E.S. Plus Agenda.

While welcoming participants to the programme, Durojaiye charged them to pay keen attention to the facilitators and gain valuable information that would help improve their approach to health and hygiene within their various communities.

The Chairman, Oriade Local Council Development Area, Hon. Rasaq Akorede, thanked Mr Governor and the Ministry for flagging off the Hygiene Advocacy Campaign in Oriade LCDA. He assured that the Council would continue to partner with the State Government to ensure that best hygienic practices are effectively cascaded to the grassroots.

In his vote of thanks, the CDC Chairman in Oriade LCDA, Mr Victor Okunola, thanked Mr Governor for prioritising healthcare in the State, particularly in rural communities. He also assured that the Community Development Associations in Oriade would continue to collaborate with the Oriade Local Council Development Area and the State Government to ensure that improved healthcare practices are cascaded to the grassroots.

The event was attended by officials of the Council, members of Community Development Associations, community leaders, youths and residents. It featured presentations by Mrs Obisesan Felicia, a seasoned professional from the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, and Mrs Oguntona Elizabeth, Director, Health Education and Promotion Services, Ministry of Health.

Kehinde Adebayo

Deputy Director, Public Affairs Unit

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

𝗢𝗻𝗶𝗹𝗲, 𝗧𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗿, 𝗢𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝘄𝗼𝗹𝗮 𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗗𝘂𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗴𝗲

 

--- 𝗢𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗘𝘃𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲, 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀, 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗩𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

The Councillor representing Ward A in Agege Local Government, Hon. Kazeem Hamzat (Onile), has joined forces with the Supervisor for Education, Hon. Tahir Taoheed, and the Supervisor for Information, Hon. Olayiwola Rasheed Emmanuel, to tackle indiscriminate refuse dumping in parts of Isale-Oja Community.

The intervention followed the discovery of several environmental black spots at Imam Mukthar Lane, Oloko Lane and behind Olalabi Compound during an inspection tour of communities across the ward.

The three representatives immediately arranged for a compactor to evacuate the accumulated refuse, while warning landlords and residents in the affected areas against allowing their surroundings to be converted into illegal dumpsites.

The representatives expressed concern that some individuals, including electrical condemned-material buyers, sugarcane sellers and other operators, were allegedly contributing to the indiscriminate dumping, particularly during the night.

Speaking during the exercise, Hon. Kazeem Onile said the intervention was necessary to safeguard the health and wellbeing of residents and maintain a clean environment across the ward.

“We cannot continue to allow our communities to be turned into dumping grounds. Every landlord and resident has a responsibility to keep the environment around their homes clean. We are appealing to everyone to cooperate with us because maintaining a clean environment is a collective responsibility,” he said.

Hon. Tahir Taoheed stressed that environmental cleanliness was essential to the wellbeing of families and the development of healthy communities.

“A healthy environment is essential for a healthy society. We must not wait until refuse becomes a major health or environmental hazard before we act. We are calling on landlords, residents and business operators to take ownership of their immediate surroundings and stop practices that compromise the cleanliness of our communities,” he said.

He also urged residents to support environmental monitoring efforts by promptly drawing the attention of the relevant authorities to activities that could lead to the emergence of new black spots.

For Hon. Olayiwola Rasheed Emmanuel, the inspection underscored the importance of regular engagement with communities and responding promptly to issues identified on the ground.

“Our responsibility is not only to sit in offices; we must go into the communities, see what is happening and respond where necessary. What we saw here requires the attention of everyone. We are therefore charging landlords and residents to take charge of their environment and prevent these locations from becoming dumpsites again,” he said.

The Supervisor for Information further warned that the evacuation exercise should not be regarded as a licence for the illegal dumping of refuse to continue, noting that enforcement measures would follow if the practice recurred.

He said landlords and residents could face sanctions, including the sealing of premises where environmental violations persist, in line with applicable environmental laws and regulations.

The three representatives also called on the Environmental Monitoring Team overseeing the ward to identify, document and monitor other black spots across the communities, with a view to preventing the recurrence of indiscriminate refuse dumping.

The exercise was joined by the Supervisor for Environment, Hon. Olabisi Emmanuel (Na Correct), Chief Olayiwola Mutairu, members of the Environmental Enforcement Team, community youths and other stakeholders, who participated in the inspection and waste evacuation.

The representatives reiterated the need for residents to take greater responsibility for the cleanliness of their immediate surroundings, stressing that a cleaner and healthier Agege requires the collective cooperation of government, landlords, residents, businesses and community stakeholders.

By Jena Olayiwola Rashers 

32 Teams To Slug It Out For Vinod's Cup '26 As Game Kicks Off Sunday

Yomi Durojaye 

The Exciting moment of Aside Football Competition, Vinod's Cup is set to kick off this Sunday, featuring about 32 football teams in Agege LGA

Speaking at the Press conference and draws which was held today at the Council Secretariat,  the Chairman, LOC, Engr. Ademola Oni said, the Maiden edition of Vinods Cup is set to showcase God's given football talents, promote youth development, foster unity and elevate grassroots football in Agege.

The competition themed, "Agege To The World" is aimed at placing Agege on the World Map through a sporting events.

Engr. Oni commended the young and visionary Agege Council Chairman, Alhaji Abdul Ganiyu for this initiative particularly by engaging the youth positively through an healthy football competition and taken their career to the next level.

He noted that opening and all  matches would be played at the newly inaugurated Keke Primary School Sports Centre, the rules of the game would also be communicated to participating teams accordingly. 

Also speaking at the event, the Supervisor for Youth & Sports, Agege LGA,  Hon. Usman Hassan, extolled the Council Chairman for  his impactful projects he had embarked on since inception into office expecially in the area of Youth & Sports development. 

He urged teams to abide by the rules that guide the game to ensure all football lovers enjoy the thrilling football actions set for 4 Sundays starting from 20th September, 2026. Noting that maximum security of lives and property were highly guaranteed. 

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞. 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲. 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐠𝐞𝐠𝐞.

Below are the fixtures

𝐊𝐞𝐤𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐯𝐬 𝐈𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐣𝐮 𝐅𝐂

𝐑𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐂

𝟐𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐅𝐂

 𝐏𝐞𝐩𝐞 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐀𝐒𝐃𝐈

𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐂

𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐓𝐚𝐜𝐨 𝐅𝐂

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐮𝐦 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐂

𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐝𝐨 𝐯𝐬 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐅𝐂

𝐎l𝐮𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐚 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐨 𝐅𝐀

𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐀𝐠𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬

𝐀𝐕𝐎 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐇𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲 𝐅𝐂

𝐈𝐝𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐨 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐙𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐂

𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐢 𝐈𝐣𝐨 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐚 𝐅𝐂

𝐀.𝐔.𝐃 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐕𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐂

𝐇.𝐎.𝐀 𝐅𝐂 𝐯𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐦𝐮 𝐅𝐂

Here are the LOC Members

𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐫. 𝐎𝐧𝐢 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐥𝐚 – 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧

𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐎𝐲𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐧 – 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫

𝐎𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐎𝐥𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐲𝐢𝐧 – 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

𝐋𝐮𝐤𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐚 – 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫

𝐎𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐢 – 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫

𝐎𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐞𝐛 – 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐎𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞 𝐎𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐚 – 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥

𝐓𝐨𝐤𝐮𝐧𝐛𝐨 𝐎𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐢 – 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲

𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐉𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐧𝐚 –𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

𝐇𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐧 𝐇𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐧 – 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐜𝐨𝐥

2027: Obanikoro, Ikuforiji, Fola Tinubu Inaugurate Support Group In Lagos, Target Over 3m votes for President Tinubu Re-Election Bid

 Yomi Durojaye  

The Director General of President Tinubu and Governor Obafemi Hamzat, Campaign Organisation, PBAT/KOH,  Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro; former Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji and CEO, Primero BRT Transport Services, Fola Tinubu FT, have Inaugurated a support Group, tagged "PBAT2027 Re-Election Support Group", promised  Over  3m votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 

Middle. Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, R: Fola Tinubu, FT

This was stated yesterday at the Inauguration of Support Group, "PBAT2027 Re-Election Support Group in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, The DG PBAT/KOH,  Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro said the campaign target to deliver over  three million votes for President Bola Tinubu in Lagos State in next general elections in 2027.

M: Former Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji

"Nigerians are not blind; they can see the good work that Asiwaju is doing for the first time in the history of our country, kidnappers, terrorists being arrested and prosecuted. Construction of 41 kilometers Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road road in one year by the seaside and we are also bringing another one from Sokoto to Lagos, think of Student loan and the structural reform that has stabiliized our economy over time now.

“That’s why we are appealing to the party leaders, APC members, stakeholders to get ready for the elections and prepare with their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to cast their votes for president Tinubu in 2027.

“We are back stronger together in Lagos to reconcile party members, tribal differences as we are all one and unite to cast our vote for president Tinubu,” Obanikoro said.

On the part of Ikuforiji, he urged the party members not to relent on the party popularity charging them to prepare their PVCs and cast their votes for APC during the general elections.

“We had an election about three or four weeks ago in Osun and the total number of votes that was cast in that election was a little less than the registered number of voters in Alimosho.

“52 per cent of registered voters came out and the total cast for Accord, APC and for all other parties was a little less than the registered voters at Alimosho local government in Lagos here.

“Our last election in Lagos, if I can remember, only 28 per cent, of registered voters voted in that election and there were over six million registered voters in the state.

“If we work seriously towards ensuring that our candidates win and come enmasse out of six million voters, if half of that number come out to vote for President Tinubu, Governor Obafemi Hamzat, of Lagos state, all our senatorial candidates, House of Representives  and for all our APC candidates to emerge as winners.

“We are targeting nothing less than three million votes for president Tinubu in the next election. 

Earlier, the DG, PBAT2027 Re-Election Support Group" Fola Tinubu, FT,  in his remarks said, the support group is not new, we did it last four years and we are doing it again.  This year campaign emphasizest on unity, reconciliation, and grassroots canvassing for voters across all communities in 20 Local Government and 37 Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State.

"Our activities include grassroots mobilisation across South West states with rallies in Ogun, Ekiti and Oyo State.

“Our main target is to educate the electorate on the president Tinubu’s reform and agenda to advance the country’s economy and social infrastructure.

“And our main Campaign will focus on grassroots mobilisations with leading campaign messages disseminating the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos and across South West States and we will deliver the  three million votes as promised ,” FT assert.

2027: Tinubu Support Group Partners Community Media Practitioners For Tinubu Re-Election Bid

Yomi Dueojaye

A group in Lagos loyal to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held a partnership meeting with Community Media Practitioners In Lagos  for grassroots propagation for the re-election bid of Mr. President comes 2027.

The meeting was held on Monday 7th, September, 2026 at Bola Tinubu Campaign Office in Awolowo Way Ikeja, Lagos State.

The support group  tagged "PBAT2027 RE-ELECTION SUPPORT GROUP is an initiative of the CEO, Primero Group, Mr. Fola Tinubu aka FT, "and their main objective is to propagate the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President to the good people of the Nigeria. 

According to FT, "Our partnership with Community Media Practitioners across all 57 LGAs/LCDAs in Lagos  is crystal clear, we are taking the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President from one community to another". 

"We want to take our message to every homes in Lagos, Nigeria, and particularly South West of Nigeria. 

This strategy, the pro-Tinubu 2027 group reasons, will help drive and effectively propagate the message and vision of the Tinubu Agenda down to the Grassroot levels in Lagos State South-West Nigeria and to ensure victories and successful outing for the APC come 2027 in Lagos and at the national levels.

In a separate messages,  the media head of PBAT2027 RE-ELECTION SUPPORT GROUP, a seasoned media expert, Hon. Olamide Azeezat Oluokun Agboke  and media coordinator, Mr. Sunday Kolawole Oloyede said the group and the media are ready to campaign and disseminate the effectively the activities of the Mr. President in the last three year to the nooks and crannies of Nigeria.

Agboke further said "the group will be officially launch this Friday 11th, 2026 at the stated campaign office as notable politicians, technocrats and top dignitaries are set to grace the occasion.

LASG Reaffirms Support For Tourism, Creative Economy, Receives Victoria Island Carnival Delegation

Yomi Durojaye  

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting innovative tourism and cultural initiatives capable of showcasing the State’s vibrant lifestyle, creative talent and economic potential to a global audience.

The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, gave the assurance on Thursday, 3rd September 2026, when she received a delegation of the Victoria Island Carnival on a courtesy visit ahead of the inaugural edition of the event.

The delegation was led by the Founder of the Carnival, Mr. Abiodun Ayorinde, and included the Grand Patron, Mr. Princewill Utchay; Partner, Mr. Zayn Godwill; and veteran musician, Tee Mac.

During the visit, the delegation briefed the Commissioner on the concept and vision of the Victoria Island Carnival, describing it as a major tourism and cultural initiative designed to celebrate the distinctive character of Lagos, particularly its vibrant economy, lifestyle, entertainment, hospitality, business and creative sectors.

The Carnival, scheduled to hold from Monday, 14th to Sunday, 20th September 2026 in Victoria Island, Lagos, is conceived as a week-long immersive experience that will bring together music, fashion, arts, food, tourism, business and community engagement in a celebration of African creativity and contemporary urban culture.

Speaking during the meeting, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka commended the organisers for conceiving an initiative that aligns with the State Government’s vision of using tourism, arts and culture to stimulate economic activity, create employment opportunities and enhance Lagos’ visibility on the global tourism and creative map.

She noted that the diversity and dynamism of Lagos provide a strong foundation for tourism experiences that can attract visitors, investors and creatives from across Nigeria and beyond.

According to her, “Lagos is Nigeria’s tourism and entertainment capital, and initiatives such as the Victoria Island Carnival provide another platform to showcase the energy, creativity and cultural richness that make our State unique. We are committed to supporting credible initiatives that promote our tourism assets, create opportunities for our creative talents, attract visitors and contribute to the growth of the creative economy.”

The Commissioner assured the delegation of the Ministry’s willingness to collaborate with the organisers within its mandate to facilitate a successful and impactful Carnival. She, however, encouraged the organisers to maintain high standards of organisation, safety, professionalism and presentation, noting that events of such magnitude must reflect the quality and reputation associated with Lagos.

Earlier, the delegation expressed its commitment to delivering a world-class Carnival that would provide a platform for local talents, businesses, hospitality operators, creatives and communities to participate in an exciting tourism experience.

The Victoria Island Carnival is expected to attract tourists, investors, creatives, businesses and residents, while providing opportunities for cultural exchange, entertainment and economic engagement.

#Sports: Agege LG, ASDI To Host Vinod's Cup 2026 Football Competition September

Yomi Durojaye

The Sports Loving Chairman of Agege Local Government,  Alhaji Abdul-Ganiu Vinod Obasa and football power house in Lagos, Agege Sport Development Initiative, ASDI to host an exciting  4 Sundays of  football fiesta in Agege.

The football themed "Bringing Agege to the world" as Agege is well known for sporting events especially the round leather game is aimed at showcasing the God giving talents of sports enthusiasts in Agege to the rest of the world.

"Get ready for the Vinod’s Cup 2026! We are bringing you four electrifying Sundays of pure football action.
Experience the passion, the skill, and the spirit of the game right here in Agege".

Dates: September 20th - October 11th, 2026
* Time: 12:00 Noon
* Location: Keke Primary School, Agege

Packaged by the Agege Sport Development Initiative
(ASDI) and powered by the Agege Local Government. Don't miss out on the excitement!

#Vinod’sCup2026 #AgegeToTheWorld #ASDI
#AgegeFootball #FootballSeason

#2027: Agbelebu Appoints Sola Osolana As DG Campaign Org.

The Candidate of the All progressive congress in Agege Consituency 01  Oluwagbenga Michael Abiola Campaign Organization, OMACO, has unveiled the appointment of Hon. Sola Osolana as the Director General of the campaign, in what is seen as a significant move towards strengthening the campaign structure ahead of the election.

The appointment places Osolana at the centre of the campaign’s operational and strategic coordination as the campaign of Hon. Oluwagbenga Michael Abiola, popularly known as AGBELEBU, gathers momentum across Agege Constituency 01.

Osolana is expected to coordinate the various arms of the campaign, working closely with ward structures, community stakeholders, volunteers and campaign teams to drive the AGBELEBU message to the grassroots.

The campaign organisation also announced the appointment of Hon. Adegbenro Shodijo as Head of the Advisory Committee.

Shodijo is expected to provide strategic guidance and political counsel to the campaign leadership, while contributing his experience and understanding of grassroots engagement to the overall campaign strategy.

In another key appointment, Hon. Razak Oyedeji has been named Campaign Secretary.

Oyedeji will be responsible for supporting the administrative coordination of the campaign, facilitating communication among the various campaign structures and ensuring effective documentation of campaign activities.

The appointments represent the first phase of the constitution of a broader campaign leadership structure designed to take the AGBELEBU campaign directly to the people across Agege Constituency 01.

With the campaign machinery now taking shape, attention is expected to shift towards grassroots mobilisation, community engagement and the unveiling of additional members of the campaign leadership.

The Oluwagbenga Michael Abiola Campaign Organization says other members of the campaign leadership will be unveiled in due time as preparations continue.

The campaign remains focused on building a strong grassroots movement anchored on unity, effective representation, development and service to the people of Agege Constituency 01.

AGBELEBU: THE PEOPLE, THE FUTURE, THE RENEWAL.

Orile-Agege General Hospital targets 3,000 children in fifth Back-to-School medical outreach

 Tijani Salako 

Orile-Agege General Hospital has commenced the fifth edition of its annual Back-to-School Medical Outreach, targeting 3,000 children with free health screening and medical interventions as part of efforts to ensure they are physically, mentally and emotionally fit for the 2026/2027 academic session.

The one-week community health programme, themed “The Way Forward: Total Wellness,” offers comprehensive healthcare services for children aged five to 15, including eye, dental, ear, nutrition, physiotherapy and counselling services, while promoting preventive healthcare before schools resume.

Speaking during her remarks, the Medical Director/Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, Dr Temitope Iyadunni Bakare, said the outreach goes beyond screening by providing treatment interventions and referrals where necessary.

She said the hospital attends to about 500 children daily during the outreach and has expanded the programme from five departments to nine departments since its inception.

According to Bakare, the initiative has also given rise to the School Oral Health Programme (SOHP), through which health workers visit schools to provide oral healthcare services to pupils.

She said screenings conducted during the outreach have revealed common health challenges among children, including vision defects, hearing impairments, toothaches and other dental conditions, noting that such untreated conditions often affect children's learning and overall quality of life.

“These issues contribute to absenteeism and poor classroom performance because some children cannot see the blackboard, hear their teachers properly or concentrate due to pain,” she said, urging parents to take advantage of the free programme.

The Director of Medical Social Services, Miss Aderonke Adeluyi, said the outreach has grown steadily since it was launched in 2022 and has become an annual community programme eagerly anticipated by children in Orile-Agege.

She explained that the maiden edition targeted 1,000 children but exceeded expectations by attending to 1,350 participants, prompting the hospital to increase its target every year.

Adeluyi said more than 5,000 children have benefited from the outreach over the past five years through free screenings, eyeglasses, ear syringing, dental care, counselling and other medical interventions.

Chairman of the occasion and Chairman of the Lagos State Health Service Commission, Dr Olukayode Oguntimehin, described the initiative as a vital preventive healthcare programme capable of improving child health and contributing to increased life expectancy.

He commended Orile-Agege General Hospital for sustaining the programme through its fifth edition, saying the outreach demonstrates the hospital's commitment to serving its host community beyond routine healthcare services.

Oguntimehin added that investing in children's health is essential because early detection and treatment of health conditions can significantly improve their development and educational outcomes.

Partners and sponsors of the outreach also praised the initiative and pledged continued support for child healthcare in the community.

The Band of Faith of Archbishop Vining Memorial Church reaffirmed its partnership with the hospital, disclosing that the group has contributed about ₦4 million over time to offset hospital bills for vulnerable children and would continue supporting the outreach.

Several officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Health Service Commission also commended the initiative and called for its replication across other general hospitals in the state to expand access to preventive healthcare for school children.

Education: TGPS EDD1, Dr. Oyetola Presents Promotion Letters to Officers, Urges Them to Embrace Continuous Learning

Yomi Durojaye 

The Supervising Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary (TG/PS), Education District III, Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, has presented letters of promotion to officers recently promoted to Grade Levels 15, 16 and 17 in the District.

The presentation took place at the Education District III Headquarters, Falomo, Ikoyi, where the newly promoted officers were formally received and congratulated on their career advancement.

Addressing the officers, Oyetola charged them to see their promotion as an opportunity to take on greater responsibilities and contribute more meaningfully to the development of the education sector.

She urged them to remain committed to their duties, improve their knowledge and skills, and cultivate the habit of reading and continuous learning, noting that career advancement comes with increased expectations and responsibilities.

The Supervising TG/PS further encouraged the officers to pursue relevant academic and professional qualifications that would enhance their capacity and prepare them for higher responsibilities within the Lagos State Public Service.

Oyetola assured the newly promoted officers of her support and guidance as they settle into their new roles, while urging them to justify the confidence reposed in them through dedication, professionalism and improved service delivery.

She congratulated the officers once again and wished them greater success as they continue to progress in their careers and contribute to the achievement of the goals and objectives of Education District III.

Ikeja Residents Celebrate as AKOD Commissions Roads, Streetlights

 Yomi Durojaye 

Residents of Apena, Bashiru Oweh and Anifowose communities in Ikeja Local Government on Tuesday celebrated as the Executive Chairman of the council, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), commissioned newly rehabilitated roads, streetlights and an ultra-modern public toilet.

The projects, which include the rehabilitation of RST Apena Close with drainage, interlocking stone, and streetlights; the rehabilitation of Bashiru Oweh Street with interlocking stones and streetlights; and an ultra-modern public toilet under the bridge in front of the Ikeja Local Government Secretariat, formed part of the activities marking AKOD's first anniversary 

AKOD, who led council officials, party leaders, market women, traditional and community leaders to the various project sites, said the commissioning was a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to delivering tangible dividends of democracy to residents.

“When we came in last year, we made a promise to better the lot of Ikeja people with projects that will improve the livelihood of our people. We are here today to commission some of those projects, and we are doing more,” he said.

The chairman urged residents to take ownership of the projects and protect them to ensure their sustainability.

Former Chairman of Ikeja Local Government and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Hon. Wahab Owokoniran, who commissioned the RST Apena road, commended AKOD for his commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.

The Council Manager, Mrs. Odubeko Julianah Taiwo, said the interventions were made possible with the support of the people, urging residents to maintain their partnership with the administation, emphasing it's commitment to delivery further developments across Ikeja.

Sports: Orile-Agege LCDA Champions Sports Development with “Train the Trainers” Programme

Yomi Durojaye 

The Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA) will host a two-day “Train the Trainers” programme to equip sports coaches with the skills needed to develop future champions.

The programme, themed “…equipping our coaches,” holds on Wednesday, 19th and Thursday, 20th August 2026, at the Orile Agege Primary School Hall, Lagos, with over 100 coaches expected to participate.

Supported by the Chairman, Hon. Akinola Abiodun Idowu, and the LCDA Sports Committee, the initiative reflects a strong commitment to grassroots sports development through capacity building.

The training will cover modern coaching methods, athlete development, sports management, and the role of coaches in building disciplined athletes. Resource persons include Ayo Filani, Ayobami Joseph Okanlawon, Fatai Akande Smith, Oladipo Liadi, and Taiwo Salako.

The programme underscores the belief that strong athletes begin with well-trained ¹standard coaches, aiming to improve coaching  and youth sports development in the community.

More than a workshop, it is an investment in grassroots sports and youth empowerment, reinforcing collaboration among stakeholders to build a sustainable sporting system.

As coaches gather for the two-day event, the expectation is that the knowledge gained will lead to better coaching practices and stronger athletes.

Through this initiative, Orile-Agege LCDA reaffirms its commitment to developing sports and nurturing future champions.

Abuja–Kaduna Train: A Journey That Shows Progress and the Need for More Investment

 *Muhammad Iskeel Abdullahi*

Today, Tuesday, August 11, 2026, I boarded the Abuja–Kaduna train from Rigasa Station, Kaduna.

One of the first things I noticed was an additional layer of passenger screening at the outer barricade. Passengers were required to present their tickets before proceeding to the main ticket-scanning point.

It may appear to be a small administrative adjustment, but it could make a meaningful difference. Beyond improving passenger control, the arrangement has the potential to discourage touting and ensure that only genuine ticket holders proceed towards the boarding area.

Another positive development was the timely departure of the train.

The service left as scheduled something that may appear routine, but which is fundamental to building public confidence in any transportation system.

As the heavy steel machine moved steadily towards Abuja, I decided to walk through some of the coaches.

For me, this was more than simply stretching my legs. It was an opportunity to practise what journalists describe as participant observation: being physically present, observing the environment and listening to passengers in order to gain a better understanding of their experience.

I noticed that very few passengers were standing in the coaches. Some appeared to be stretching their legs, while others may simply have wanted a brief escape from the rather chilly air-conditioning.

The public-address announcements continued, informing passengers of our arrival at Asham, Rijana, Kubwa and eventually Idu.

But another small, recurring issue caught my attention: some passengers appeared confused about the seating arrangements.

Thankfully, the situations were resolved amicably.

The confusion appeared to involve passengers unfamiliar with the numbered seating system, as well as groups travelling together whose allocated seats were not necessarily next to one another.

I also overheard some passengers expressing frustration about difficulties associated with purchasing tickets online.

While there may be several factors responsible for this, the frequency and availability of train services deserve closer attention.

And this brings me to the bigger picture.

We thank Almighty Allah for a safe journey. But a safe and timely journey should also encourage us to ask a broader question:

How can we make the Abuja–Kaduna railway service better, more accessible and more responsive to the growing needs of its passengers?

This is not merely a transportation facility connecting two cities.

The Abuja–Kaduna railway serves a much wider population across the North. It is an important link for citizens, businesses, students, civil servants and other travellers moving between Kaduna, Abuja and communities beyond.

For that reason, I believe the Federal Government should continue to explore greater investment in the service including additional locomotives and coaches, stronger supporting infrastructure, improved ticketing systems and, where operationally and economically feasible, increased daily services.

More trips would give passengers greater flexibility, reduce pressure on available services and potentially make rail transportation a more attractive alternative for people who would otherwise depend on the roads.

But this responsibility should not rest entirely with the Federal Government.

I also appeal to Northern governors, legislators, business leaders, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations and other influential stakeholders to make their voices heard.

They should collectively engage the Federal Government and advocate for sustained investment in the Abuja–Kaduna railway.

If we genuinely want to see infrastructure in the North improve, we must move beyond complaints.

We need constructive, persistent and evidence-based advocacy for better public services.

The Abuja–Kaduna train has demonstrated that rail transportation can make a real difference in the lives of Nigerians.

What we need now is not abandonment, but investment, expansion, efficiency and sustainability.

A reliable railway is not simply about moving people from Kaduna to Abuja.

It is about connecting communities, supporting commerce, facilitating movement, reducing pressure on our roads and creating a more efficient transportation network for the region.

The journey today was encouraging.

But it also reminded me that progress should never be the reason we stop asking for improvement.

The train is moving. Let us make sure it keeps moving forward.

BADAGRY LG PRESENTS OFFICIAL VEHICLES TO COUNCILORS AS HUNPE MARKS ONE YEAR IN OFFICE

 Yomi Durojaye 

The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, on Wednesday presented official vehicles to members of the Legislative Council to enhance effective grassroots governance and service delivery as part of activities marking his one year in office.

Hunpe, who spoke during a special interdenominational prayer session held at the council secretariat, said the vehicles were working tools to improve the mobility of Councilors, enabling them to engage their constituents more effectively, monitor projects and discharge their legislative and oversight responsibilities.

He urged the beneficiaries to use the vehicles responsibly, stressing that they were not symbols of privilege but instruments for bringing government closer to the people through accountable, accessible and dedicated representation.

Reflecting on his administration's first year, the chairman thanked God for His faithfulness and reaffirmed his commitment to transparent, inclusive and people-centred governance under the Greater Badagry Rising Agenda, noting that the administration would continue to prioritise infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic empowerment and security.

Hunpe also appreciated the Lagos State Government, religious and traditional leaders, political stakeholders, council staff and residents for their unwavering support, expressing confidence that with continued prayers and cooperation, Badagry Local Government would achieve greater developmental milestones in the years ahead.

#ParrotSPEAKING #lagoslead #BadagryArea #badagrylg

"Our Walk Today Is a Vote of Confidence in President Tinubu's Leadership" – AKOD

 Yomi Durojaye 

The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has said that the massive solidarity walks across major roads in Ikeja by APC faithful from Ikeja, Onigbongbo, and Ojodu was organised to demonstrate the unwavering support of the people for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

Addressing party supporters during the rally, AKOD said the walk was a clear message that the people of Ikeja recognise the achievements of the Tinubu administration and are committed to supporting his second-term bid.

According to him, landmark projects and policies of the Federal Government, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the ongoing Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway, the NELFUND student loan programme, local government autonomy, prompt payment of local government allocations, and the approval of a new salary structure for federal civil servants, are evidence that the Renewed Hope Agenda is delivering tangible benefits to Nigerians.

AKOD expressed confidence that Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, would also implement the new salary structure for state workers, adding that local government workers would equally benefit in due course.

He therefore called on Nigerians to sustain their support for President Tinubu by re-electing him for a second term, while also rallying behind Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat as the next Governor of Lagos State, saying continuity of progressive leadership remains the surest path to greater development and prosperity.

#AKOD #RenewedHope #Tinubu2027 #Hamzat2027 #APC #Ikeja #Onigbongbo #Ojodu