Empowering A Girl-Child's One Of The Greatest Investments In Life Says Ologba of Ogbland

 

Yomi Durojaye

The Ologba of Ogbaland, HRM, Oba Surv. Abdulateef Oladimeji Egbeyemi said that one of the greatest Investment in life is to empower girls child.

Ologba stated this recently at the distribution of Sanitary pads to female children in one of the schools in Lagos. 

The event held at Yewa Secondary School, Agege Lagos, organised by Olori Foundation. Themed: Sexual Purity & Menstral Hygiene.

Oba Abdulateef said "Today's programme is not merely about the distribution of sanitary pads. It is about education, dignity, confidence, health, and empowerment. It is about ensuring that every girl-child understands her body, embraces womanhood with confidence, and has access to the knowledge and resources necessary to maintain proper personal hygiene.

"My dear daughters, menstruation is a natural and healthy part of life. It is not a source of shame, fear, or embarrassment. Rather, it is a sign of growth and development. Unfortunately, many young girls still suffer from misinformation, stigma, and inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products. As a society, we must continue to break these barriers through education and support.

"As a traditional ruler and father to all within my kingdom, I firmly believe that educating and empowering a girl-child is one of the greatest investments any society can make. An educated girl becomes a confident woman; a confident woman builds a stronger family; and strong families build prosperous communities and nations.

"This programme therefore seeks to Promote awareness on menstrual hygiene and healthy living; Encourage good personal hygiene practices; Build self-confidence among young girls; Reduce absenteeism from school during menstrual periods; Support the overall well-being and academic success of our students.

"To our young students gathered here today, I urge you to listen attentively to the educational session. Ask questions without fear. Knowledge is power, and there is no shame in seeking information that will help you live healthier and happier lives.

"To the boys present here, I encourage you to be supportive, respectful, and understanding toward your female classmates and sisters. Building a compassionate society requires mutual respect and empathy from everyone.

"The Palace of Ologba of Ogba Kingdom remains committed to initiatives that promote education, health, youth development, and community advancement. We shall continue to partner with organizations, government agencies, and well-meaning individuals whose programmes contribute positively to the welfare of our people.

"I commend Olori's Foundation for its vision, compassion, and dedication to the well-being of young girls. May this initiative continue to touch lives and inspire hope in many communities.

As our Yoruba forefathers wisely said:

"Ìwà l'ẹwà ọmọ ènìyàn."

Good character is the true beauty of a person.

And another proverb says:

"Ẹkọ́ ni ìmólẹ̀, ẹni tí ó bá ní ẹkọ́, ó ní ìmọ̀lára ọjọ́ ọ̀la."

Education is light; whoever acquires education gains a brighter future". Ologba concluded.

Earlier, the founder Olori Foundation, Mrs. Lydia Oyasodun  speaking through the Project Manager,  Happy Tanko who provides menstrual hygiene education, told AgegePulse how some female relied on rags and tissue paper for menstrual flow as a teenager.

She highlighted that using inadequate menstrual products led to infections, which were costly to treat, an experience that sparked her desire to address the systemic issues surrounding menstrual health. noting that the programme was a vital menstrual health intervention designed to empower school girls, especially in the rural communities in Lagos, Nigeria.

PS charges Agric and Social Services Officers on Community Development …iterates Proper Use of CDA Operational Vehicles, Warns Against Personalisation

Yomi Durojaye

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, has charged Heads of Agriculture and Social Services Departments across the 57 Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas (LGs/LCDAs) in Lagos State to be more actively involved in community development initiatives within their respective councils.

PS. Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa

She gave the charge during an interactive session with Heads of Agriculture and Social Services Departments held today at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Alausa.

Mrs. Bolarinwa stressed the need for the officers to initiate innovative ideas capable of encouraging greater grassroots participation in community development activities across the State.

 She also emphasised the importance of involving corps members posted to the LGs and LCDAs in community development projects to ensure that projects executed by them are tailored to the actual needs of the host communities.

The Permanent Secretary further disclosed that the Ministry plans to commence the inspection of self-help projects earlier ahead of this year’s Community Day celebration. According to her, the move is aimed at ensuring that more Community Development Associations (CDAs) and their projects are adequately covered, thereby creating opportunities for wider participation and enabling deserving CDAs to benefit from consolation prizes, awards, and gifts provided by the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

Mrs. Bolarinwa also expressed concern over reports indicating that vehicles presented to CDAs who emerge as winners at the annual community day celebration are allegedly being diverted for personal use rather than serving the communities for which they were procured. She reiterated that the vehicles were provided strictly to support community development activities, enhance grassroots mobilisation, and improve administrative efficiency within CDAs and CDCs.

She warned against the use of the vehicles for private engagements, social outings, and other unofficial purposes, noting that such actions undermine the objectives of the Government’s intervention. She therefore urged Heads of Agriculture and Social Services Departments to intensify monitoring efforts and ensure accountability in the use of the vehicles.

To further strengthen accountability and transparency, Mrs. Bolarinwa revealed that the Ministry intends to adopt a more structured handover process for future vehicle allocations.

 She explained that the process would involve the leadership of the concerned CDAs and CDCs, representatives of the LGs and LCDAs, as well as Heads of Agriculture and Social Services Departments.

Rounding off her remarks, the Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting responsible leadership, transparency, and effective grassroots development across communities in Lagos State.

In his vote of thanks, the Chairman, Committee of Heads of Agriculture and Social Services Departments, Mr Adekunle Saliu, from Lagos Mainland, appreciated the Ministry for organising the engagement session, noting that such interactions would help participants develop better approaches to effectively discharge their responsibilities within their respective councils.

He assured the Permanent Secretary that all issues raised during the meeting had been duly noted and that the Heads of Departments would ensure full compliance and alignment with the directives given.

The meeting was attended by Director, Community Development Department, other directors and staff from the Ministry as well as Heads of Agriculture and Social Services Departments from all the 57 LGs and LCDAs in Lagos State.

Lagos State Govt. Intensifies Support For Creative, Entertainment, Tourism Industry

Yomi Durojaye 

… Sponsors Over 200  Events In 12 Months

The Lagos State Government said it has invested several billion naira in the area of sponsorships and support for the creative industry in the last year as part of efforts to strengthen the State’s entertainment and tourism ecosystem.

M- Hon. Commissioner for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Mrs. Toke-Benson, R- Commissioner For Information & Strategy and PS, Mimstry of Tourism, Arts & Culture, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila

The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, disclosed this during the ongoing annual Ministerial Press Briefing, commemorating the seventh year in office of the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

She disclosed that the Ministry supported 201 events, festivals, and creative programmes in the period under review, revealing that the figure represented an increase from 143 initiatives supported in the previous year.

Supporting over 200 creative initiatives in a year, according to the Commissioner, demonstrates a practical commitment of the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to deliberately growing the creative economy.

In her words: “Between May 2025 till date, the Ministry, through its Creative Arts Department, significantly expanded its support for the creative and cultural sector by sponsoring over Two Hundred and One (201) events, festivals, and programmes, representing a notable increase from the One Hundred and Forty-Three (143) initiatives supported in the previous year.

“The Ministry also issued endorsement letters to more than One Hundred and Fifty-Nine (159) creative stakeholders, providing institutional support to aid their engagement with sponsors and development partners for the successful execution of their projects and initiatives.”

She listed some key initiatives supported during the year being reviewed to include the Lagos Fashion Week, Felabration 2025, Lagos Cocktail Week, Homecoming Festival, AFRIMA, Lagos Fanti Carnival, and the Eyo Festival.

The Commissioner said the investments had contributed significantly to job creation, tourism development, youth empowerment, and international media visibility for Lagos State.

According to her, Lagos remains the creative capital of Africa with expanding opportunities in arts, culture, fashion, music, film, and tourism.

#AGreaterLagosRising
#LASG

Nigerian Non-Oil Exporters Signal Massive Growth Potential, Amidst Crippling Logistics, Energy Costs - 3T Impex Trade Consultant, Dr. Bamidele Ayemibo

 Yomi Durojaye 

The Nigerian Non-Oil Exporters has Signalled a Massive Growth Potential, Amidst Crippling Logistics and Energy Costs giving Nigerian Exporters hope in a growing foreign exchage opportunities in the sector.

Lead Consultant, 3T Impex Non-Oil Export Index  Dr. Bamidele Ayemibo.

This was disclosed today at the 2026 3T  Non-Oil Export Index Report programme organised by 3T Impex Trade Firm in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the Lead Consultant,   Dr. Bamidele Ayemibo, said the 2026 Non-Oil Export Index Report, revealing a striking paradox at the heart of Nigeria’s international trade sector. While exporter confidence and global demand have reached record highs, severe structural bottlenecks specifically, despite a skyrocketing logistics and energy costs that are actively neutralizing these gains and pushing smaller exporters out of the market.

From L-R; The Admin Officer of the Institute of Export and International Trade; Victoria Orji, Lead Consultant, 3T Impex Trade Consulting; Dr. Bamidele Ayemibo, Human Resource Manager, 3T Impex Trade Consulting; Ms. Grace Adedayo and the Head of Trade Logistics and Operations; Mr. Caleb Afuwape during the virtual launching of the  3T Impex Non-Oil Export Index Report 2026 by the Lead Consultant, Dr. Bamidele Ayemibo.

According to Dr. Bamidele Ayemibo, the comprehensive report synthesizes data from 87,824 export transactions between 2021 and 2025, alongside a detailed sentiment survey of 94 active non-oil exporters across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. 

The findings present a stark 75-point chasm between market ambition and operational reality with high Confidence Amidst a Logistics Crisis

"According to the report, the Business Confidence Index stands at a strong 87.8 out of 100, with 75.5% of exporters reporting actual sales growth and 91.5% expecting global demand to improve.  This optimism is further reflected in the Predictive Outlook Index, which scored an exceptional 92.8, as 83.0% of respondents plan to invest and expand their capacity. 

However, "this optimism is heavily overshadowed by the Logistics Benchmark Index, which plummeted to a critical low of 12.8 out of 100—the weakest index in the entire study. A staggering 77.7% of exporters reported increased inland transport and port handling costs over the period. 

"Nigeria's non-oil exporters are confident, market-facing, and growing," the report concludes. "But a Logistics Benchmark of 12.8 out of 100 is a structural emergency, not a policy inconvenience. When 77.7% of exporters face rising logistics costs while simultaneously recording the strongest sentiment scores (87.8 confidence, 92.8 outlook), the system is trapping its own best performers". 

The Execution Trap: "Energy, Quality, and Port Concentration The report identifies operational hurdles, rather than market demand, as the primary constraints to scaling:  Energy Costs: 51.1% of exporters cited the high cost of energy and processing as their absolute number one barrier. This forces many to avoid value-addition and revert to exporting raw commodities. 

• Quality Standards: 28.7% identified quality and standardization rejections as their top constraint, highlighting the urgent need for better certification infrastructure to meet strict global requirements like the  EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). 

On Port Concentration: The report warns of a worsening national risk, noting that 71.7% of all exports now exit through just two Lagos ports (Tincan Island and Apapa), with Tincan's share alone growing to 45.9% in 2025. 

He further stressed that, there is a need for urgent  Call for Intervention while the total export value grew by an impressive 93% over five years to reach $6.17 billion in 2025, the actual transaction count dropped from 18,280 in 2021 to 16,683 in 2025. This indicates that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are being systematically excluded from the formal export system due to prohibitive measures. 

Key recommendations include diversifying export port infrastructure by activating Onne Port to relieve Lagos, resolving grid power reliability for export zones, expanding NEXIM export credit insurance, and creating logistics-linked pre-export financing to support struggling businesses. 

Exporters are also advised to consolidate shipments and prioritize quality compliance. The Nigeria Non-Oil Export Index serves as a strategic tool for tracking exporter sentiment and performance, providing actionable insights to accelerate Nigeria’s export diversification agenda and unlock sustainable economic growth

Lagos Tourism Commissioner Mrs. Toke-Benson, Receives Moroccan Tech Delegation ...Explores Coastal Tourism, Digital Investment Opportunities

 

The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, on Wednesday, 13th May 2026, received a delegation from Moroccan technology firm, CIRES Technologies, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja.

The delegation was led by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Sageto Limited, Mr. Salim Abou Jaiude, alongside the Director of Business Development, CIRES Technologies, Mrs. Iman Chaara; Sales Director for Critical Infrastructures and Private Sector, Mr. Ali Saidi, and Senior Advisor at Digital Kaza, Mr. Amin Taleb.

Discussions during the meeting focused on investment opportunities within Lagos State, particularly the potential of the State’s extensive coastline for tourism development, smart infrastructure, digital innovation, and sustainable economic growth.

In her remarks, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to fostering strategic collaborations that align with the vision of positioning Lagos as Africa’s leading destination for tourism, arts, culture, and entertainment.

According to the Commissioner, Lagos remains open to investors and development partners whose initiatives support sustainable tourism growth, infrastructure development, and economic transformation.

She noted that the State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, is committed to creating an enabling environment that encourages investment while strengthening the image of Lagos and Nigeria as safe, vibrant, and globally competitive destinations.

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka further described the State’s coastline as one of its most valuable natural assets, stressing that the integration of technology and innovation into tourism development would unlock enormous opportunities for investors, local communities, and the broader economy.

The Commissioner added that the Ministry would continue to engage local and international stakeholders in driving initiatives capable of creating employment opportunities, empowering youths, promoting cultural exchange, and diversifying the State’s economy through tourism and the creative industry.

The delegation expressed interest in exploring strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing visitor experience, improving coastal management systems, and integrating innovative smart technology solutions into Lagos’ rapidly expanding tourism ecosystem.

They expressed readiness to explore follow-up engagements and identify potential areas of collaboration for future projects with the state government through the Ministry.

#AGreaterLagosRising 

#LASG

LAGOS TOURISM SUPPORTS COKER-AGUDA BEAUTY PAGEANT

Yomi Durojaye

… Says Grassroots Initiatives Critical To Tourism Growth

The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting grassroots-driven tourism and youth empowerment through its support for community-based cultural initiatives.

This was demonstrated at the maiden edition of the Coker-Aguda Beauty Pageant 2026, held on Friday, 1st May 2026 in Coker-Aguda, where the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, was represented by the Director, Research and Development Department, Mr. Frank Temitope Legunsen.

The event, organised by the Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area, served as a platform to celebrate culture, creativity, and youth potential, bringing together contestants who showcased intelligence, confidence, and cultural awareness.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary noted that community-based initiatives such as the pageant play a critical role in advancing tourism development at the grassroots level. 

She emphasised that these platforms not only promote cultural identity but also stimulate local economies and encourage youth participation in creative enterprise.

“Grassroots initiatives like this are essential to building a sustainable tourism ecosystem. They provide opportunities for young people to express themselves, while also projecting the cultural richness of our communities”, she stated.

She further highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Lagos State Government’s broader vision of positioning tourism as a key driver of socio-economic growth, in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.

Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila commended the organisers for their foresight and commitment to youth development, urging that such programmes be sustained and expanded to reach more communities across the State.

She also encouraged the contestants to see their participation as a stepping stone to greater opportunities, noting that platforms like the pageant can serve as catalysts for personal growth and community impact.

#AGreaterLagosRising 

#LASG

Lagos Launches 2nd Edition of Eko Schools Art&Crafts Competition, Tagged: "This Is Lagos" For Lagos Schools ... Registration Starts Monday 4th - Monday 25th May, 2026

Yomi Durojaye 

The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has officially launched the second edition of the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition 2026, themed: “THIS IS LAGOS!”, reaffirming its commitment to youth empowerment and the growth of the creative economy.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, speaking at a press conference held on Monday, 4th May 2026, at the Ministry’s Conference Room, Alausa, Ikeja, noted that the competition serves as a strategic platform to discover, nurture, and showcase the immense creative potential of young people in Lagos. 

Middle: PS, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Adebopo Ismaila-Oyekan  addressing Pressmen at the Event

She emphasised that the initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, particularly the Entertainment and Tourism pillar.

Reflecting on the maiden edition, she revealed that the competition received 153 entries from students across secondary and tertiary institutions in Lagos State. Nine outstanding winners emerged across three categories, earning scholarships and gaining visibility that continues to amplify their talents.

“That success affirmed one truth: Lagos is brimming with creative brilliance. Our young people are ready to lead the creative economy when given the right opportunities,” she stated.

Announcing the commencement of the 2026 edition of the competition, the Permanent Secretary disclosed that the Ministry is scaling up the competition with Structured mentorship from industry professionals, Broader industry engagement, internship opportunities and exposure and increased visibility for participants across digital and physical platforms.

She further noted that the competition bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world creative enterprise, equipping young participants with relevant skills for today’s global economy while preserving and promoting Lagos’ rich cultural heritage.

Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila called on school administrators, teachers, parents, and guardians to encourage active participation, stressing that they are nurturing the next generation of artists, innovators, and cultural ambassadors. She also commended media partners for their continued support in amplifying the initiative.

Addressing prospective participants, she declared:“This is your platform. This is your moment. Let your creativity speak. Let your art tell the story of Lagos and open doors to limitless possibilities.”

She announced that the registration portal for the competition is now open at www.ekoschoolsartsandcrafts.com and will run from Monday, May 4 to Monday, May 25, 2026.

Reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to the creative sector, the Permanent Secretary stated:

“When creativity thrives, innovation flourishes. When innovation flourishes, economies grow. And when economies grow, the people are healthier and happier.”

She expressed optimism that this year’s edition will be bigger, more inclusive, and more impactful, producing creative talents who will proudly represent Lagos on the global stage.

#AGreaterLagosRising 

#LASG