Dangote accuses NMDPRA MD of corruption, claims his children's school fees in Switzerland cost $5m

 

Aliko Dangote, the chairman of the Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), has alleged that Farouk Ahmed “paid $5 million” to Swiss secondary schools for his children.

Ahmed is the current chief executive officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The billionaire said Ahmed paid the said amount for four of his children, covering a period of six years.

Although Dangote did not mention the name of the Swiss schools, he said the authority’s CEO was living above his means, calling on the federal government to investigate.

The group president said such expenditure raises serious questions about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of regulatory oversight in the downstream petroleum sector.

TheCable 

OBASA GAMES 2025: FutureStar 99 FC Lifts Trophy As Lagos Speaker, Obasa reward winners with additional cash prizes

Yomi Durojaye 

‎The grand finale of the Obasa Games 2025 lived up to its billing as a celebration of grassroots sports lovers converge at the Anwarul-Islam Model College Playing Ground, Agege.

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‎The final match was officially kicked off by Hon. Wale Ahmed, Member of the House of Representatives for Agege Federal Constituency, alongside other leaders and stakeholders from Orile-Agege and Agege. 

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‎The highly anticipated clash featured FutureStars99 (Igando) in green against Goalgetter FA (Surulere) in blue. Both sides displayed intense attacking football, tactical discipline, and high-level skill, thrilling the packed crowd.

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‎As the match progressed, presentations of awards to winners in other sporting categories continued seamlessly. Hon. Wale Ahmed and Hon. Sunday Johnson Babatunde presented awards, including honours for female athletes in the table tennis category. 

Other dignitaries present included Hon. Haruna Adeshina  (Agege leader) and Hon. Omotunde Afolabi  of Orile-Agege, who witnessed the climax of the tournament.

‎Further awards were presented by Hon. Hon Jubreel Ayodeji Abdulkareem , while the first half ended goalless.

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‎The second half brought renewed energy and drama. Goalgetter FA broke the deadlock to take a 1–0 lead, before FutureStars99 responded with a well-taken equaliser to make it 1–1. With ₦3 million earmarked for the champions, ₦2 million for second place, and ₦1 million for third place, the contest intensified as both teams pushed relentlessly for victory.

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‎Additional medal presentations for boxing were made by Hon. Akinola Idowu as the match continued.

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‎At full time, the score remained 1–1, forcing the game into a tense penalty shootout. FutureStars99 (Igando) held their nerve to win 6–5 on penalties, emerging champions of the Obasa Games 2025 Football Tournament.

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‎Hon. Jubreel Abdul Kareem addressed the audience, praising Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, for his leadership and commitment to youth development. Songs of solidarity filled the arena on the arrival of the Speaker.

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‎Hon. Wale Ahmed also addressed the gathering, acknowledging Rt. Hon. Obasa’s immense contributions to Agege and grassroots empowerment. Other leaders, including Hon. Sunday Johnson Babatunde, Hon. Abdulazeez Ninalowo, Hon. Akin Oshugboye, and Hon. Akinola Idowu. commended the success of the programme, with calls encouraging civic participation and voter registration.

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‎Hon. Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa the initiator of the Obasa Games, highlighted the tournament’s impact across Lagos State, revealing that some participants have already secured professional contracts abroad.

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‎Taking the stage, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa  Obasa appreciated all dignitaries, stakeholders, organisers, committee members, media partners, and party faithfuls. He emphasized the Obasa Games as a strategic platform for youth empowerment and announced plans to further engage young people through structured sporting initiatives in Agege.

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‎The presentation of trophies, medals, and cash prizes was led by Rt. Hon. Obasa who further pledged an additional ₦2 million for the champions, ₦1 million for second place, and ₦500,000 for third place, adding to the already announced prize money.

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‎Dignitaries from across Lagos State and beyond were present to witness what has been widely described as one of the most impactful grassroots sports initiatives in Nigeria.

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‎The Obasa Games 2025 successfully closed with renewed hope, proven talent, and a strong message of empowerment for Lagos youth.

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Insecurity: Lagos Donates 100 Vehicles To Security Agencies

Yomi Durojaye 

 

…As Sanwo-Olu Urges Nigerians To Re-Strategise Approach To Tackling Security Challenges

 

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday urged all Nigerians, particularly the residents of the State to re-strategise and find a lasting solution to the country’s security challenges, noting that security of lives and property is a shared responsibility of government and the citizens.

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu, also reaffirmed his administration's commitment to safeguarding the lives, property, investments and the future of Lagos and expressed readiness to collaborate and support the Federal Government and other relevant security agencies to achieve a crime-free society.

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke at the 19th Annual Town Hall Meeting on Security with the Governor with the theme "Building Trust, Enhancing Security: A New Era of Security and Partnerships" held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

 

The Town Hall Meeting organised by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) was attended by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa; serving and former public office holders; captains of industry; traditional, religious and political leaders; heads of security agencies and security personnel; and others.

 

The Governor, in line with his administration's commitment to 'Security and Governance', which is the sixth pillar of the THEMES+ Agenda, donated 100 operational vehicles to security agencies in the State to boost their operations in the State.

 

The vehicles were jointly procured by the Lagos State Government and Conference 57, the association of the chairmen of 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the State.

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu also announced a plan by renowned philanthropist, Sir Kensington Adebutu to build a brand-new purpose-built headquarters for LSSTF, which will be completed and commissioned within 12 months. He expressed gratitude to Adebutu for his plan to build the LSSTF Building, which he described as a landmark contribution to Lagos’ long-term security infrastructure.

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu further harped on the importance of collaboration, saying every investment in security is a direct investment in peace, order and prosperity. He said security cannot be left to the government alone but requires contributions from the private sector, community groups, and every resident of Lagos State.

 

He said: "This year's theme — “Building Trust, Enhancing Security: A New Era of Security and Partnerships” — reflects the very philosophy of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund and the direction of our administration. It speaks to the foundation upon which security thrives: trust in institutions, confidence in leadership, and shared responsibility between government and the people.

 

"This town hall meeting is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to safeguarding lives, properties, investments and the future of Lagos. It is an affirmation that the security of this state is not solely the responsibility of the government but a shared duty, a covenant between government, the private sector, communities, and every resident of this city.

 

"In Lagos, our progress is strengthened by the wider reforms championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda places security at the center of Nigeria’s economic revitalisation. The President’s commitment to modernising the nation’s security architecture — through enhanced intelligence coordination, improved personnel welfare, better technology integration, and a deeper embrace of community-led security — creates a strong foundation upon which state-level initiatives can thrive.

 

"These federal priorities complement the advanced platforms we are deploying in Lagos, making it possible for our agencies to operate with greater efficiency, clarity, and operational synergy. The Lagos State Security Trust Fund itself has become a national reference point for how subnational innovation can reinforce federal policy direction.

 

"As the Federal Government intensifies reforms—strengthening internal security frameworks, elevating counter-terrorism capabilities, enhancing maritime security, and accelerating the professionalisation of our armed forces—Lagos stands ready as a model partner. Through the LSSTF, we are demonstrating that security funding can be transparent, collaborative, and impactful."

 

Governor Sanwo-Olu also outlined key priorities for the state’s security strategy, which are Sustainability through public-private partnership and citizens' participation, Continuous modernisation and technological adaptation, Institutional coordination and intelligence-led policing, Transparency, accountability and public trust, Inclusiveness, community engagement and citizen empowerment, and Preparedness for emerging challenges and long-term vision.

 

He also commended the immediate past Executive Secretary of LSSTF, Dr Abdulrrazaq Balogun, for his remarkable service to Lagos State. The Governor introduced the newly appointed members of the Board of Trustees of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.

 

Speaking earlier, the Executive Secretary of LSSTF, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, said Lagos has remained secure due to the huge investment of Governor Sanwo-Olu in the security architecture of the State.

 

He also highlighted the achievements of the Trust Fund in the year under review, to include the acquisition of security vehicles, infrastructure and human capacity building, among others.

 

"Since its establishment in 2007, the LSSTF has remained a critical intervention mechanism designed to strengthen the operational capacities in Lagos State. Supported by the Lagos State Government, local governments, LCDAs, and the generous contributions of private sector organisations and individuals, the Fund continues to bridge long-standing capacity gaps affecting federal security agencies operating in Lagos," he said.

 

In his address, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of LSSTF, Mr Kehinde Durosimi-Etti, commended the donors, saying trust is essential in providing strong security, with a call on other well-meaning individuals, corporate organisations, the private sector, students, and youths to join hands and contribute to the Fund to ensure adequate security not only in Lagos but in the country as a whole.

 

Giving security reports between October 2024 and September this year, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Jimoh Olohundare, said the security architecture put in place in Lagos is second to none.

 

He said the security agencies are fully prepared for the ember months, noting that Lagos State is safe and secured for Detty December.

 

The Commissioner of Police disclosed that 141 cases of armed robbery incidents were foiled and 142 murder cases recorded, with 9275 miscreants arrested and charged in court, while 518 pieces of ammunition were recovered, among other crimes.

 

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of the Awards of Gallantry to the Commissioner of Police Special Squad One for foiling a kidnap case and neutralisation of nine kidnappers with the recovery of weapons in the Ladipo area of Lagos in July last year.

 

The officers were commended by Governor Sanwo-Olu and others for their professionalism, and they were encouraged to remain consistent, transparent, and compassionate in their duties.

DPO Elere Police Station Agege, CSP Akindele Fatai, Meets ACMAP Members, Seeks Partnership In Tackling Insecurity

Yomi Durojaye

 DPO Elere Police Station Agege, CSP Akindele Fatai,  Meets ACMAP Members, Seeks Partnership In Tackling Insecurity 

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Elere Police Station Agege, CSP Akindele Fatai, received Members of Association of Agege & Orile Agege  Community Media Practitioners (ACMAP) and urged for partnership to combat insecurity in the council Area.

During the visit, the experienced Police Officer emphasized the importance of media in a democratic society, stating that a society without media would be deficient. He outlined his responsibility to protect lives and property, and assured that he would serve the people of Agege and Orile Agege with honesty, truth, and without bias.

DPO Fatai also highlighted the rights of suspects and criminals, noting that despite their freedom being taken away due to their awful and unlawful act, they still deserve respect for their basic human rights. He expressed his commitment to collaboration with the media to ensure the safety of lives and property of the peopleofAgege and Orile-Agege.

The DPO acknowledged the contributions of notable individuals, including Hon. Dr. Wale Ahmed, Hon. Vinod AbdulGaniu Obasar, and Hon. Akinola Idowu, to the police force and the safety of the community.

He appealed to the media to help inform the public, especially the stakeholders, about the need for equipment such as patrol vans and other resources to support his efforts in maintaining peace and order in the area.

This visit is a historical experience and i promise to collaborate with the press to make Agege Local Government and Orile-Agege LCDA a home of peace and safety. 

Abayomi Durojaye of AgegePulse Magazine, Adegbenro Nurudeen Adenekan  of Hotnews In Naija  led the media team, pledged their support and collaboration with DPO Fatai. "We're happy with your efforts, experience, and dedication to our community's safety. We assure you of our full support and cooperation," he said.

Lagos, holds, 2025 Annual, Community Day, Celebration

Lagos holds 2025 Annual Community Day Celebration

…Gives five vehicles and consolation prizes to outstanding CDAs

Lagos State Government has proven her commitment to grassroots development after the presentation of five vehicles to outstanding CDAs for their self-help projects in their various Communities at the Year 2025 Community Day Celebration.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu gave these gifts as appreciation to CDAs for their commitment to community development in the State and for consolidating the efforts of Government in Making Lagos State a 21st Century Economy.

In his keynote address, Mr Governor harped on the theme of the year, stating that it is a call to a renewed demand on community development and transformation across every community in the State, reiterating on the need to harness the resilient spirit within them to build a forward-looking society and a 21st Century society.

Sanwo-Olu also assured that his administration remains intentional in sustaining its relationship with community leaders because Lagos State recognises CDAs as dependable partners in progress—partners whose numerous self-help projects, community-driven initiatives, and unwavering dedication have continued to illuminate the pathway towards the collective aspiration for a Greater Lagos.

While saluting community development associations for their resilience and purposeful contributions to the growth and transformation communities across our State, he added that these reasons make Lagos State resolute in identifying with CDAs and for recognising the invaluable efforts of Community Development Associations. Sanwo-Olu reminded them that they are custodians of community harmony; and the champions of local development whose actions continue to strengthen social and economic foundation in the State.

In his welcome address, the Special Adviser on Rural Development Dr Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, reiterated that the annual community is a day set aside to honour the spirit of unity, sacrifice, self-help, and resilience that continue to drive the consistent growth and development of our communities across the State, hence the reason Mr Governor rewards outstanding CDAs.

While thanking the Governor for his commitment to developing rural communities, he applauded the visionary leadership of Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration on rural development, especially community-driven projects that have been initiated and ongoing, which includes the Onishon Road, Ibeju-Lekki, Lamidi Agoro/Ganiyu Odutan Street, Igbogbo Baiyeku, Ijake Road, Ijanikin, Oto-Awori LCDA, Sanni Street, Amukoko, Ifelodun LCDA, and many others, including the grading of access roads to Isiwu in Ikorodu and Adekola Estate, Ikola-Ilumo in Alimosho, to mention a few.

Dr Agbaje also disclosed that in the last one year, Mr Governor has given 69 electric transformers and 27 solar powered street-lights to rural communities in the State.

Agbaje rounded off his speech appreciating community leaders, through the various Community Development Associations (CDAs), Community Development Committees (CDCs), and the Advisory Council, for their continuous self-help projects, grassroots initiatives, and productive partnership with the Lagos State Government, all of which have yielded tremendous development across the State.

The hallmark of the event was the presentation of the Best Grassroots Governor award to Mr Governor for his contributions to developing rural communities in Lagos by members of the Lagos State Community Development Advisory Council.

Recipients of the star prizes of buses are, Iroko Estate CDA in Egbe-Idimu, for first position, Nitel Estate CDA in Ikorodu LG for second position, Akinyele and Environs CDA for third position, GuduGudu CDA for best Rural Community and Lagoon View CDA as second-best Rural Community.

Ten other CDAs received prize gifts of one million naira each as consolation prizes for their efforts in community development.

The event was attended by Members of State House of Assembly, State Executives, Party Chieftains, Traditional Leaders and other distinguished guests.

Adebayo Kehinde

Assistant Director, Public Affairs Unit, MLGCA&RD

Thursday, December 4, 2025

Our 100 Days Journey, A journey of Service, Says Orile Agege LCDA Chairman, Hon. Akinola Idowu

 

Yomi Durojaye

Our 100 Days Journey, A journey of Service, Says Orile Agege LCDA Chairman, Hon. Akinola Idowu

Middle in Orange, Hon. Akinola Idowu Dodo, Left: Vice Chairman, Hon. Wale Fayemi, Right, Council Leader, Hon. Omotunde Afolabi 

...Reels Out Achievements In 100 Days In Office

The Orile Agege Council Chair, Hon. Akinola Idowu today, hosted Media Houses accros Agege, Orile Agege and National newsmen in a briefing to Reels Out his administration's  Achievements In 100 Days In Office.

Speaking at the briefing, Akinola Dodo says, From the very beginning, he made a promise,  that his administration would not lead from a distance. We would walk with the people, listen to the people, and work for the people.

"These 100 days have been the beginning of that journey of Reality,Resilience and Commitment towards the growth of our noble lcda.

OUR 100-DAY JOURNEY — A JOURNEY OF SERVICE

These first 100 days have not been about making noise, but about doing the work. Quiet, consistent, community-focused work. Let me share some of the things we have done together on Roads & Community Infrastructure

"We began the construction of Bade Abiona Road. We also started the road and drainage project at Egbatedo Street, Papa Ashafa,these two roads would be handed over to the communities very soon after completion.

"We have also been moving around to inspect schools, projects, and communities so that we see things with our own eyes — not on paper.

On Education — Investing in Our Children

Education is the ladder that lifts families out of poverty. That is why we: Provided exercise books, writing materials, desks, and benches to our schools and teachers,some of these items will be distributed this week as part of the activities to mark this season.

He had doled out 300 GCE forms to support  youths and prepare them for their future academic journey.

"This administration Organized the Spelling Bee Competition to encourage confidence, intelligence, and healthy competition among our students and pupils. Our children are the future, and we must give them the tools to rise.

On Empowerment and Welfare

"Our adminstation will organise a monthly subsidized food items of 50% food discount programme to help families reduce their expenses on food items and other household goods,this is not just a one off thing,another phase is also in the pipeline for the benefit of all residents.

"We also started solar energy and technology training for our young people so they can gain modern skills, and move with technological advancement,which in turns provides specialization  and job opportunities for them.

We are not just giving handouts; we are building people.

On Health and Community Well-being

In partnership with the Lions Club, we conducted a massive health intervention:
Ranging from Free eye tests, Free glasses, Free medications and more importantly Heathcare center would be constructed in Ward C of orile Agege to compliments the 5 functional healthcare centers.

OUR COMMITMENT — THE “EASE” AGENDA

Going forward, our work will continue to focus on these four areas:

E – Empowerment

More opportunities for youths and women. Skills, training, and support that lead to real income.

A – Access to Quality Education

Better schools, more support for students, and a commitment to ensuring no child is left behind.

S – Social Infrastructure & Environment

More roads, drainages, health centres, community halls, and cleaner neighbourhoods.

E – Enhanced Health Services

Stronger primary healthcare, more outreach programmes, and improved community health.

SECURITY AND PEACE

No development can happen without security. We will continue to support:

A joint security taskforce comprising The Police, LNSC and Paramọlẹ community security would be established to ensures security of lives and properties.

"Our commitment is simple. Every resident must feel safe in every street, at every hour.

"We will also continue to promote peace among all religions, cultures, and groups. When a community is united, progress becomes easier.

We are supporting cultural and creative programmes that keep our heritage alive and give young people positive avenues to express themselves.

We are also strengthening our use of technology for awareness, communication, and development.

This gathering today is not only about what has been done. It is also about hearing from you. This meeting is for all of us—to talk honestly, to review our steps, and to shape the path ahead together.

No administration succeeds alone. Governance is stronger when every voice is heard.

I stand here fully aware that there are still much to be done,Our challenges are real, and our expectations are high. But I am confident because I have seen the spirit of our people—the creativity of our youth, the resilience of our traders, the wisdom of our elders, and the dedication of our community leaders.

Series of programs have been put in place to mark this laudable season amongst which are:

HEALTH:Comprehensive health Mission with our doctors and nurses on ground for free medical consultations and treatments

WAPA: Empowerment for our women,widows and some carefully selected residents as beneficiaries

ENVIRONMENTAL :Comprehensive stakeholders engagement across all the six wards of the lcda

GRADUATION:Vocational skills graduation for successful completion of the skills acquisition program and a host of other activities are lined up for the celebration of the first 100 days of this administration.

"As we move into the next phase, I assure you that we will continue to serve with transparency, humility, and a genuine desire to improve lives.

"Your feedback, your ideas, and even your criticisms will guide us as we build a better and stronger LCDA, Hon. Akinola Abiodun Idowu.

In a question and answer section, the council chairman said, this week would witnessed a tremendous action plans, commissioning of several projects, inauguration of establishement, empowerment among others.

Our government will work hand in hands with public, private sector to drive our goal in youth training, sports, entertainment and largely on agricultural programs. 

LAMATA Kicks Off Intensive Training for Bus Drivers Under Lagos' Regulated Transport Scheme

 Yomi Durojaye

Today, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), in collaboration with the Lagos State Drivers' Institute (LASDRI), commenced a rigorous capacity building and training program for drivers under the transformative Bus Reform Initiative.

The comprehensive training, which officially began with the core bus operators, is being conducted in phases, with subsequent sessions scheduled for ground staff and ticketers.

In her opening address, Dr. Olukemi Amure, LAMATA Head of Bus Service, emphasized that the drivers are the frontline representatives of the State Government. She passionately charged them to exhibit the highest levels of professionalism and customer service, stating, "This is more than just a training; it is a vital investment in your career and the future of transport in Lagos."

The modules covered crucial areas, including safe driving techniques, professional driver behaviour, and exceptional customer relations. Dr. Amure further revealed LAMATA’s commitment to making the driving profession an attractive and proper career path, complete with a laid-out progression plan.

Mrs. Afusat Tiamiyu, General Manager of LASDRI, reinforced the message, urging the participants to uphold proper conduct and embrace the new standards being implemented across the state. 

The rigorous capacity building program was comprehensive, and included mandatory eye test screenings for all participating drivers to ensure maximum safety compliance.

All Hail Founder/ President, Hon. Gbenga Abiola As Agbelebu Foundation Unveils Family Adoption Initiative, Dole-Out FoodBanks, Free Healthcare Service To 500 Families

Yomi Durojaye 

The venue of the official unveiling of Agbelebu Foundation, Dami Event Centre, Agege was filled to brim with excitment as Agbelebu foundation doled out Foodbanks, free healthcare services to over 500 households in Agege.

According to the Founder/President, Hon. Gbenga Abiola, Agbelebu Foundation Family Adoption Project, Themed: Igniting Lives, Renewing the Hope of The Common Man is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's  Renew Hope Agenda. 

At the event, the foundation announced its overarching goal to adopt 1,000 families, beginning with Phase One, which will see 500 families integrated into a comprehensive support system. These families, he noted, will receive not mere handouts but deliberate and continuous empowerment through structured programs.

“This is not charity. This is family meeting family. This is humanity choosing humanity,” Oluwagbenga said, reiterating the foundation’s philosophy of providing long-term, holistic support.

The Family Adoption Project is designed to meet families’ needs across multiple dimensions—healthcare, education, economic empowerment, and emotional well-being. Over the next year, the foundation plans to partner with key organizations and individuals to deliver youth training programs, medical outreach, health insurance, food banking, GCE and JAMB support, scholarships, and technical education opportunities.

Oluwagbenga stressed that the project aims to ensure progress becomes “intentional, not accidental,” and affirmed that the adopted families will not walk alone. “Their challenges become our challenges, their victories our victories,” he declared.

In a seperate messages, The Executive Chairman, Agege LGA, Alhaji Abdul-Ganiu Vinod Obasa, the first Agege Chairman, Alhaji Owolabi Dada, Vice Chairman Orile Agege LCDA, Hon. Wale Fayemi, Kabiesi Ologba of Ogba, HRM, Oba Abdulatif Egbeyemi, Traditional Rulers, Community Leaders and National Youth Council Body, Others hailed the immediate past Chairman of Agege,  Hon. Gbenga Abiola for another bold step in that same tradition of service. By identifying families in need, adopting them, supporting their welfare, and helping them find stability.

"Agbelebu Foundation has placed itself at the frontline of humanitarian intervention. This is not just charity — it is strategic empowerment; it is the rebuilding of dreams; it is the restoration of human dignity".

"In a society where many struggle daily to meet basic needs, initiatives like this do more than provide assistance — they revive faith in leadership, in community, and in the possibility of a better tomorrow. This is the true meaning of igniting lives. This is the true meaning of renewing hope". 

Beneficiaries which include, young individuals, Aged citizens, community leaders, physically impaired, amongst others appreciate the gesture of the foundation, described initiative as first of its kind.

Lagos Upgrades Waterfront Infrastructure To Boost Tourism

Yomi Durojaye

The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu, has unveiled plans by the State Government to carry out significant waterfront improvements in the State. 

Speaking at a panel session during the Tourism & Hospitality Stakeholders Engagement Summit, themed: “Unlocking the Potentials & Opportunities of Lagos Tourism, Collaboration, and Partnership for a Greater Lagos”, held at the Lagos Continental Hotel on Thursday, the Honourable Commissioner announced major advancements in Lagos State’s waterfront infrastructure and regulatory framework.

The Commissioner revealed that Lagos has successfully transitioned from the use of wooden jetties to modern concrete pontoons, a significant upgrade that aligns with global best practices. This transition, he noted, will enhance safety, expand operational capacity, and further boost water transportation across the State.

Hon. Alebiosu further disclosed that the State Government is developing comprehensive policies to curb illegal and unplanned land reclamations along the coastline. He emphasised that such unauthorised activities pose severe environmental risks and hamper the long-term sustainability of waterfront development.

According to him, Lagos is also working to sanitise the current landscape of illegal reclamations while promoting well-structured and iconic reclamation models such as Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and Singapore’s Marina Bay, both of which demonstrate how properly executed waterfront projects can stimulate tourism, economic growth, and global visibility.

In addition, the Honourable Commissioner announced that the State Government has commenced plans for the rehabilitation of all existing jetties. This initiative aims to improve safety, enhance user experience, and strengthen the supporting infrastructure required to serve residents, visitors, and the broader tourism and hospitality sector.

In his concluding remarks, Hon. Alebiosu affirmed the State’s broader vision for the sector, stating: “All hands are currently on deck to ensure that Lagos State becomes one of the top 10 tourism destination hubs in the world, and the signs are there for everyone to see that it’s fast becoming a reality.”

Lagos Holds Tourism Stakeholders Engagement Summit For Greater Lagos

 Yomi Durojaye 

 The Lagos State Government  Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture , on Thursday, held Stakeholders Summit  to strengthen collaboration, parnertship and unlock the state’s tourism potential for Greater Lagos.

The stakeholders were drawn from both the public and private sectors, including the Lagos State Transportation and Monitoring Authority, Lagos State Waterways Authority, and hospitality and tourism practitioners.

The event, was organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MTAC) at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, in her welcome address, said the gathering was evident of the state’s commitment to positioning Lagos as a leading, globally competitive tourism destination.

Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka

According to the commissioner, “Today’s conversations are designed to generate practical insights that will assist in enhancing our infrastructure, safety, strengthening regulatory frameworks, elevating service standards, and improving promotional strategies.

“These insights are critical as Lagos continues to attract growing local and international interest. We must ensure that our systems are efficient, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of a dynamic global tourism industry.”

The continued positioning of Lagos as a top destination for leisure, business and cultural experience is a collective effort, and your roles are indispensable,” she said.

She urged participants to see their roles as part of a long-term strategic plan, not just for the December festivities.

In his presentation, the General Manager, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki assured that his agency would deploy over 2,000 officers on Lagos road to take care of major routes on the Island, Lekki-Epe, Victoria Island and Ajah.

“I am giving the assurance that those who are coming from the diaspora have seamless mobility during the December period,” he said.

Panelists took turns to dissect issues around traffic management, waterfront and beach tourism, hospitality and the business of tourism in Lagos among others and they all agreed that concerted effort must be made to synergise operations during the December period in order to optimally unlock the potentials and opportunities therein.

In another presentation,  the Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC), Mr Lanre Mojola, said the agency’s mandate to regulate hospitality and entertainment facilities extended far beyond the festive season.

He said the commission’s role was to oversee and enforce safety standards for recreational spaces, including hotels, bars, lounges, beach resorts and event centres.

He said LSSC ensured safety in the facilities through inspections, emergency preparedness checks and compliance certification.

Highlighting the commission’s Four Es of Safety, which are: Engineering, Education, Enforcement and Evaluation, Mojola said LSSC was intensifying facility registration, audits and event permit requirements.

“All hospitality establishments operating in Lagos State –such as hotels, restaurants, bars, lounges, nightclubs, shortlets, beach resorts, event centres and other recreational facilities – are required to register with LSSC,” he said

Other agencies including the Lagos Ferry Service, LAGFERRY, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA), Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, (LASEPA), Lagos State Waterways Authority, (LASWA) among others called for compliance at all levels to achieve the state’s vision for a seamless and memorable December

Alhaji Tajudeen Adisa Balogun Inaugurated As Branch C Chairman, Orile Agege

Alhaji Tajudeen Adisa Balogun Inaugurated As Branch C Chairman, Orile Agege

The Chairman of Lagos State NURTW, Alhaji Mustapha Adekunle Sego has today, inaugurated Alhaji Tajudeen Adisa Balogun Inaugurated As Branch C Chairman, Orile Agege

This was confirmed at through the social media handle of Alhaji Tajudeen, 

 "Inauguration done & dusted Now Alhaji Mustapha Adekunle The State Chairman as Confirm Me as  Branch Chairman Orile Agege Ayedade Branch C 🙏 Glory be to Almighty Allah"

NRC denies leaving passengers stranded, apologizes over Abuja-Kaduna Train service delay

Yomi Durojaye  | AgegePulse Magazine 

The Management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation have apologized to all passengers on the afternoon belt of the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) over the delay they experienced following a procedural safety decision as the backup engine loses power moments after the train departed.

The Managing Director of the Corporation Dr Kayode Opeifa, described as misleading the report which indicated that passengers on the train were stranded by the corporation.

He said the Corporation’s premium on safety at all times informed the reason why the train returned to Kaduna, the moment it was discovered that the back-up engines was losing power.

“Though the train can push through but for security concerns on the route and since they are less than 30 minutes into the journey, it is advisable to pull back to Rigasa, Kaduna for safety reasons,” Dr Opeifa said.

The journey resumed at 4pm (60 minutes after) and arrived Idu at 18.52 hour. Eighty minutes behind schedule. Passengers were kept informed through Public Address Systems (PAS) on the train and at the Rigasa Station.

He likened what happened to what happens to an aircraft that proceeds to the nearest airport rather than to its destination when one or both engines fails, adding that if it was morning trip, the train would have proceeded and shunt at the nearest train stations (Jere, Rijana or Gidan) but decided against it because it is evening trip.

The Managing Director apologized for the inconveniences experienced by the passengers, even as he urged the nation’s media houses to always clarify any reports they had before rushing out to publish to avoid misinforming their critical readers. 

The Managing Director reassured passengers and stakeholders that the NRC remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability across all its legacy corridors whether the narrow or standard gauges, adding that the corporation remains committed to taking all its esteemed passengers to their destinations, safely.