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“Tinubu lost in Dapo Abiodun’s ward but won in mine” — Ladi Adebutu

Politics

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August 5, 2025

According to the former House of Representatives member, the PDP in Ogun is not blind to the political realities in Nigeria and has chosen to support the man who they believe is working for national stability

“Tinubu lost in Dapo Abiodun’s ward but won in mine” — Ladi Adebutu

… Launches scathing attack on governor’s performance, rallies support for APC leader

In a surprising political twist, the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while launching a blistering attack on the performance and leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun.

This bold declaration came during a campaign rally for PDP candidate Oluwole ahead of the Federal House of Representatives rerun election in Remo. Speaking to a passionate crowd of supporters, the PDP governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, did not mince words in distancing the PDP from the state governor.

“Let it be clear — we are more on Tinubu’s side than Dapo Abiodun’s,” Adebutu declared to thunderous applause.

He further noted that despite President Tinubu being a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Ogun PDP remains aligned with the president’s efforts to steer the country out of economic hardship. But the same cannot be said for Governor Abiodun, who Adebutu accused of poor governance, arrogance, and gross disconnect from the people.

“ Tinubu lost in Dapo Abiodun’s ward, yet won in mine,” Adebutu emphasized, a jab clearly aimed at undermining Abiodun’s popularity and grassroots appeal even within his home base.

According to the former House of Representatives member, the PDP in Ogun is not blind to the political realities in Nigeria and has chosen to support the man who they believe is working for national stability — not the one fostering local chaos and hardship.

The Adebutu-led PDP didn’t hold back in its condemnation of Dapo Abiodun’s style of governance. Adebutu accused the governor of failing to deliver on key promises, marginalising entire regions, and running an exclusive government that only favours a select few.

“This is not about party lines anymore — it’s about leadership. The governor has failed our people. The roads are bad, the economy is choking, and workers are groaning. We will not continue to fold our arms while one man ruins the destiny of Ogun State.”

This is not the first time Adebutu has publicly criticised the governor, but this declaration, which openly aligns the Ogun PDP with President Tinubu, marks a dramatic realignment of political interests and a major crack in the opposition narrative.

The public endorsement of President Tinubu by a prominent PDP chieftain is already sending ripples through Nigeria’s political landscape. Analysts believe this could signal a strategy by the Ogun PDP to isolate Abiodun ahead of future electoral contests, or a broader national move to realign the PDP with Tinubu’s centre.

Whether this stance will earn the PDP a closer working relationship with the federal government remains to be seen. What’s certain, however, is that the rift between the Ogun PDP and Dapo Abiodun has deepened beyond reconciliation — with Tinubu now positioned as a unifier across party lines in Ogun State. Read More

NIESV Lagos Boss Seeks Strategic Alliance with Adron Homes to Boost Real Estate Growth

Lukman Omikunle

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August 5, 2025

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NIESV Lagos Boss Seeks Strategic Alliance with Adron Homes to Boost Real Estate Growth

NIESV Lagos Chairman ESV Tosin Kadiri leads a delegation to Adron Homes, seeking strategic collaboration with Chairman Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuelking to boost housing delivery and professionalism in Nigeria’s real estate sector

NIESV Lagos Boss Seeks Strategic Alliance with Adron Homes to Boost Real Estate Growth

In a bid to deepen collaboration and drive innovation within Nigeria’s real estate sector, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Lagos State Branch, ESV Tosin Kadiri, has led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Chairman of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuelking KOF.

The high-level meeting, held at the Adron Homes Head Office, marked a pivotal step toward forging stronger ties between professional estate managers and developers, with a shared vision of enhancing housing delivery and promoting professionalism across the real estate landscape.

While receiving the delegation, Sir Aare Emmanuelking, who is a proud member of the Institution, offered a stirring reflection on his career journey — from his early beginnings in estate management to founding one of Nigeria’s most prominent property development companies.

“My transition into property development was driven not just by the desire to build houses, but to create communities and cities that stand the test of time,” he said. “The support and foundation I received from the estate surveying profession have remained instrumental in Adron Homes’ success story.”

On his part, ESV Kadiri emphasized the importance of partnership between practitioners and developers to address the country’s housing deficit and professional development needs.

“This visit is about building bridges,” Kadiri said. “We believe that by working with forward-thinking developers like Adron Homes, we can set new standards in housing provision and raise the bar in ethical and sustainable real estate practice.”

Both parties agreed on the need for continued dialogue and collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery, policy advocacy, and capacity building in the real estate value chain.

The visit concluded with an exchange of goodwill, as the NIESV team commended Adron Homes for its impactful contributions to housing development across Nigeria.

“Adron Homes was not born out of convenience, but of a calling,” he stated. “The industry is rife with challenges, but if you are truly called and driven by vision, you will stand out. We’ve seen many fall by the wayside, but with determination, resilience, and strategic thinking, we have continued to build and grow.”

He highlighted Adron’s innovative application of the labelling theory in estate development, thematically branding each estate to reflect cultural or geographic inspiration. This, he noted, along with Adron’s heavy investment in infrastructure, has set the company apart as a responsible, visionary, and futuristic developer.

Speaking on behalf of the visiting team, the Chairman of NIESV Lagos Branch, ESV Kadiri Tosin, lauded Adron Homes as a formidable pillar in the Nigerian real estate landscape. He admired the scale and consistency of Adron’s developments and emphasized the need for a more structured relationship between the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), and Adron Homes.

“We are here to seek collaboration. We believe that our members can tap into the vast structures and opportunities that Adron Homes has already created,” he stated. Adding to the discourse, the Chairman of the NIESV Cooperative Society echoed the call for a deeper partnership. He proposed a collaborative housing scheme wherein Adron Homes could allocate a zone within its existing estates for NIESV members to create bespoke properties, aligned with their professional dreams and financial capabilities. According to him, “This collaboration could bring our collective dream into the larger Adron vision.”

In addition, the NIESV Lagos Chairman proposed a strategic partnership where experienced members of the institute, particularly those with expertise in estate and facility management, can be integrated into Adron Homes’ operations to create added value across its estates.

In his response, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking welcomed the proposals with open arms, expressing optimism about the future of a deepened collaboration between both parties.

“We’ve enjoyed a cordial and mutually beneficial relationship with NIESV Lagos Branch in the past,” he said. “This administration brings renewed energy, and we are eager to deepen that relationship in meaningful and strategic ways. We are always open to working with professionals whose values align with our mission and vision.”

Members of the NIESV Lagos Branch delegation took turns to commend the impressive footprint of Adron Homes across the nation. One of the executives remarked, “This visit has been an eye-opener. As practitioners in the industry, we often underestimate the breadth and depth of being a real estate developer. Today, we’ve gained a new perspective, and more importantly, renewed inspiration.”

In attendance at the high-level meeting were several NIESV executives; the Vice-Chairman, ESV Ayodeji Odeleye, the Honorary Secretary, ESV Olaseni Lojede, among others, as well as Adron Group’s management team, including the Managing Director, Adenike Ajobo; the Group Company Secretary, Shola Orunmuyiwa; the Deputy Managing Director, Business Investment, Chitola Roberts; the Chief Press Secretary, Maureen Echefu; and the Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Faruq Salisu, among other company executives.

The meeting ended on a promising note, with both institutions expressing strong commitment to building a collaborative future. The engagement marks a pivotal step toward the professionalization of housing development and delivery, opening doors to mutually rewarding collaborations between developers and estate professionals. Read More

With visionaries like Aare Adetola Emmanuelking at the helm, championing sustainable development and collaboration, the future of Nigeria’s real estate industry continues to look exceptionally bright. Read More

Tunde Kelani Hosts Lukman Omikunle, Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo, Reflects on His Journey, Legacy, and Future of Yoruba Culture

Lukman Omikunle

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August 5, 2025

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Tunde Kelani Hosts Lukman Omikunle, Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo, Reflects on His Journey, Legacy, and Future of Yoruba Culture

Filmmaker Tunde Kelani reflects on his journey, Yoruba cultural preservation, and his latest film Cordelia, as Lukman Omikunle and Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo pay tribute to his enduring legacy

Tunde Kelani (TK) during deep conversation with Lukman Omikunle and Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo

By Lukman Omikunle

Tunde Kelani Hosts Lukman Omikunle, Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo, Reflects on His Journey, Legacy, and Future of Yoruba Culture

ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE – August 5, 2025 | Legendary filmmaker and cultural icon, Tunde Kelani, hosted project management and media consultant, Mr. Lukman Omikunle and political leader Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo at his serene Abeokuta home on Monday, August 4, 2025, in what became an enriching and deeply reflective conversation on his life, legacy, and vision for the Yoruba people.

Now aged 77, Kelani—fondly called TK—is widely respected not just as a pioneer of Nigerian cinema, but as a tireless custodian of Yoruba cultural heritage. During the visit, the filmmaker opened up about his unconventional path into storytelling, his early rejection of university education in favor of photography, and the deliberate decisions that shaped his life’s work.

“I chose photography over university because I felt an urgent need to capture, document, and preserve our stories. That decision was rooted in my desire to see that the Yoruba culture doesn’t fade into oblivion,” TK revealed during the discussion.

He shared how the transition from photography into motion picture was a natural evolution, driven by his urge to amplify African narratives—unfiltered and uncolonized.

Kelani lamented the erosion of key Yoruba traditions, especially among the younger generation. He noted that many vital customs, languages, and communal values are disappearing, urging a collective effort to revive them before they’re lost forever.

“The future of the Yoruba race depends on how well we preserve our cultural DNA,” he said, expressing hope that more youths would begin to embrace their roots and reflect that in their personal and public lives.

The visit coincided with a private screening of his latest film, Cordelia, which continues in TK’s tradition of crafting thought-provoking stories that celebrate identity, community, and the complex layers of African life.

In a heartfelt tribute, Lukman Omikunle shared his admiration for the filmmaker:

“Sitting with Tunde Kelani is like immersing oneself in a rare spring of wisdom and cultural depth. More than just a cinematic icon, TK embodies humility, vision, and an unrelenting passion for reviving and preserving the rich traditions of the Yoruba race.”

“At 77, he remains a creative force—still pushing boundaries in filmmaking with unmatched clarity and purpose. Watching Cordelia was a joy and privilege. Thank you, sir, for continuing to light the path for storytellers across the continent,” he added.

Omikunle concluded with prayers for TK’s continued strength, wisdom, and good health, underscoring how impactful his legacy has been to Nigeria’s cultural and creative landscape.

As the conversation wrapped up, it was clear that Tunde Kelani’s legacy is far from complete. His mission to document, educate, and inspire through storytelling remains alive—and his lens, ever focused on the soul of Africa. Read More

Dangote, Afreximbank Sign $1.35 Billion Refinery Refinancing Deal

Business

Lukman Omikunle

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August 5, 2025

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Dangote, Afreximbank Sign $1.35 Billion Refinery Refinancing Deal

Dangote Industries secures $1.35 billion refinancing from Afreximbank for its mega refinery. The deal, part of a $4B syndicated facility, boosts Africa’s energy security and industrial growth

Dangote, Afreximbank Sign $1.35 Billion Refinery Refinancing Deal

In a major vote of confidence for Africa-led industrialisation, Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) has secured a $1.35 billion financing facility from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) as part of a broader $4 billion syndicated refinancing deal for its massive petroleum refinery project.

Afreximbank, which acted as the Mandated Lead Arranger, contributed the largest share of the facility, reaffirming its strategic commitment to funding transformative infrastructure that powers Africa’s industrial and energy future.

The financing package will help refinance capital costs incurred during the construction of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Complex—the largest single-train refinery in the world with a processing capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. It also aims to ease initial operating expenses and fortify Dangote Industries’ balance sheet.

Operations at the $19 billion Lagos-based refinery officially commenced in February 2024, and Afreximbank has continued to play a key financial support role—funding crude oil supply and ensuring product offtake.

Speaking on the development, Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of Afreximbank’s Board of Directors, said:

“With this landmark deal, we once again demonstrate that Africa’s development can only be meaningfully financed from within. It is only when African institutions lead the way that others can follow. The journey to utilise African resources for its own economic transformation is well underway.”

He added:

“Through the Bank’s funding support, we are enhancing the capacity of the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Industries Ltd to produce and supply high quality refined petroleum products to the Nigerian market, as well as for export to the entire continent and the world. Our energy security is in sight.”

Aliko Dangote, President/CEO of Dangote Industries Limited, also praised Afreximbank’s involvement, stating:

“Afreximbank’s contribution to this milestone financing underscores our shared vision to industrialize Africa from within. This refinancing strengthens our balance sheet and accelerates with ease the refinery’s supply of high-quality refined petroleum products across Africa.”

The syndicated financing attracted participation from leading African and international financial institutions, signalling strong confidence in both the viability of the refinery and the broader potential of Africa’s industrial sector.

The Dangote Refinery is widely seen as a game-changer for Nigeria and the continent, with the potential to drastically reduce fuel imports, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange earnings through exports. Read More

Details… Olubadan-In-Council Endorses Ladoja as 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland

Society

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August 5, 2025

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The Olubadan-In-Council has unanimously endorsed former Oyo State governor, Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking a significant step toward his ascension to the revered traditional stool

Details… Olubadan-In-Council Endorses Ladoja as 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland

The council, comprising the high chiefs and kingmakers of Ibadan, met at the new Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo to ratify Ladoja’s nomination, following the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who died on July 7, 2025.

As the Otun Olubadan—the highest-ranking chief in the civil line—Ladoja was next in line under Ibadan’s time-honoured rotational succession system, which alternates leadership between the civil and military chieftaincy lines.

Announcing the decision, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, stated that the Council would forward Ladoja’s name to Governor Seyi Makinde for formal endorsement and subsequent enthronement.

“The council is confident that Ladoja will bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the throne,” Ajibola said. “His track record as a former governor and his deep connection with the community make him an ideal candidate to lead Ibadanland into a new era.”

He added, “Under his leadership, we anticipate a period of reconciliation and development for our people. We believe that Rashidi Ladoja will uphold the values and traditions of our ancestors while embracing modernity.”

Ladoja, born on September 25, 1944, in Gambari village near Ibadan, studied at Ibadan Boys High School and Olivet Baptist High School, before earning a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Liège in Belgium. He later worked with Total and built a successful career in business and politics.

He became governor of Oyo State in May 2003 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), though his tenure was marked by a controversial impeachment in 2006. He was reinstated by the Supreme Court later that year and completed his term in May 2007.

In August 2024, Ladoja accepted the ceremonial beaded crown as Otun Olubadan—a step mandated by the revised chieftaincy declaration, allowing him to ascend the throne.

During a radio interview in Ibadan, Ladoja expressed calm confidence in his destiny:

“By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan. My blood pressure has been stable; anyone God destined to become Olubadan will become Olubadan.”

A public presentation ceremony is expected in the coming weeks, following the governor’s formal approval. Read More

BBNaija S10: Housemates to Vote ‘Most Influential’ Player Weekly in New Twist

ENTERTAINMENT

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August 5, 2025

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BBNaija Season 10 introduces a new twist: housemates will vote weekly to choose the ‘Most Influential Player’ based on performance, teamwork, and entertainment value

BBNaija S10: Housemates to Vote ‘Most Influential’ Player Weekly in New Twist

The ongoing Big Brother Naija Season 10 has introduced a fresh twist to the reality show, as housemates will now vote weekly for the ‘Most Influential Player’ in the house.

The new rule, announced by Big Brother — popularly known as Biggie — is designed to reward contestants who show dedication, teamwork, and influence within the house.

According to Biggie, housemates will assess their peers based on several criteria, including contributions to general tasks and challenges, commitment to household chores, participation in early morning workouts, and entertainment value during the week.

Each housemate will be provided with a scorecard featuring the names of fellow contestants. They will assign scores from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest), ranking their peers based on perceived influence and contribution.

At the end of the scoring, the housemate with the highest cumulative points will be declared the Most Influential Player of the Week.

The twist adds a new layer of strategy to the competition, as housemates must now balance personal gameplay with team dynamics, social perception, and house leadership roles.

Fans are already buzzing on social media about how this new development could shake up alliances and impact evictions in the coming weeks. Read More

2027: INEC Warns Politicians Against Premature, Illegal Campaigns

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August 5, 2025

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INEC warns politicians and parties against early 2027 election campaigns, stressing that no official timetable has been released. Premature endorsements and adverts are illegal under the Electoral Act

2027: INEC Warns Politicians Against Premature, Illegal Campaigns

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and aspirants across Nigeria, urging them to desist from early campaigning ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement released on Monday by Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, the Commission emphasized that it has not yet released the official timetable or schedule of activities for the 2027 elections. Therefore, any current political campaigns are in clear violation of the Electoral Act.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections. As such, no political party has conducted primaries or nominated any candidate for the election,” the statement read.

INEC cited Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, which states that campaigns can only officially begin 150 days before the election and must cease 24 hours before polling begins.

The electoral umpire further reminded political stakeholders of Section 95(1), which mandates that all campaign activities must strictly adhere to INEC’s rules and guidelines.

“Even though people have the right to express their political views, organised endorsements, mobilisation efforts, and campaign-style adverts aimed at promoting candidates before the official campaign period are not allowed,” the statement clarified.

INEC revealed that it had earlier addressed this concern during a meeting with political parties, where it cautioned stakeholders to strictly follow the laws governing the electoral process.

This warning follows the recent emergence of campaign-style posters and endorsements across several parts of the country, particularly in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential second-term bid.

Oyekanmi urged all political actors to show restraint and respect the electoral process, warning that premature campaign activities undermine the integrity of the electoral system.

“We call on politicians and their supporters to wait for the official timetable before engaging in any campaign activity,” he concluded. Read More

N986m Diesel Fraud: Court Orders Interim Forfeiture of Park View Property

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Society

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August 5, 2025

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A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the interim forfeiture of a Park View Estate property linked to a N986 million diesel fraud. EFCC alleges the house was bought with diverted funds

N986m Diesel Fraud: Court Orders Interim Forfeiture of Park View Property

Justice Dehinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, has ordered the interim forfeiture of a luxury property located at No. 29 Oyindamola Shogbesan Street, Park View Estate, Ago Palace Way, Lagos.

The order follows an ex-parte application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), over the property’s alleged link to a N986 million diesel supply fraud.

The EFCC, through its counsel C. C. Okezie, sought the court’s intervention pursuant to Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and Section 44(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, to preserve the asset pending a motion for final forfeiture.

While moving the application, Okezie informed the court that the property in question was allegedly purchased with proceeds from a fraudulent Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) supply deal involving Mrs. Hannah Ify Nwaguzor, Mr. Ajayi Edward Olushola, and others.

The application was supported by a sworn affidavit from EFCC investigator Waziri Abdullahi. According to Abdullahi, the Commission received a petition from Prince Chukwulota Benneth Onuoha, along with two firms — G3 Solid Farms & Agro Allied Industries and Bohr Energy Limited — alleging that the suspects defrauded them of N986 million under the pretext of supplying diesel.

The petitioners had been introduced to Nwaguzor and Olushola by one Irene Abidemi in May 2024. Based on their representations, Bohr Energy Limited transferred the sum to Mozann Global Merchants Limited on May 14 and 15, 2024.

However, no product was delivered, and the entire N986 million was allegedly diverted. Investigations later revealed that N500 million of the funds was routed to Hola Jayu Nigeria Limited, from which N261 million was paid to one Orobosa Michael Ubogu for the acquisition of the Park View property.

“The said property, described in Schedule A of the application, was acquired with proceeds of the alleged fraud and not from any legitimate source of income,” Okezie submitted in her written address.

She argued that the interim forfeiture was necessary as “a preventive measure to safeguard suspected proceeds of crime,” and urged the court to grant the motion in the interest of justice.

In his ruling, Justice Dipeolu granted the interim forfeiture of the property and ordered that the decision be published in a national daily. The publication will invite any interested parties to appear before the court within 14 days and show cause why the property should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

The matter was adjourned to September 2, 2025, for the hearing of the motion for final forfeiture. Read More

Joy in Akwa Ibom as Dangote Foundation distributes rice to vulnerable citizens

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August 4, 2025

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Joy in Akwa Ibom as Dangote Foundation distributes rice to vulnerable citizens

There was immense joy among the vulnerable and indigent people in Akwa Ibom State as the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) began the distribution of fifteen thousand 10 kg bags of rice in the State. The distribution is part of the ADF National Food Intervention Programme ongoing efforts to cushion the effects of economic hardship on vulnerable citizens.

Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umoh Eno, at the flagoff ceremony expressed gratitude to the Dangote Foundation for its timely intervention, describing it as a critical gesture that aligns with both federal and state efforts to alleviate poverty and hunger.

“This donation could not have come at a better time. Every bag of rice handed out today is more than food. it is a message of hope to struggling families across Akwa Ibom State. Government alone cannot bear this burden,” Governor Eno said.

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga noted that the Foundation’s contribution complements the state’s Bulk Purchase Food Intervention Programme, which has already benefited over 477,000 households across the 31 Local Government Areas.

Governor Eno also used the opportunity to appeal to other corporate bodies, philanthropic organizations, and private individuals to emulate the gesture of the Aliko Dangote Foundation by supporting ongoing humanitarian efforts in the State.

Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Eno Obareki, praised the partnership as a major boost to the State government’s food security initiative.

In his remarks, Mr. Victor Ejiro, Head of Operations at the Aliko Dangote Foundation, emphasized that the donation was part of a broader national initiative to assist vulnerable communities. He commended the Governor Umoh Eno administration for its transparent and impactful humanitarian programmes, noting that the Foundation was proud to partner with the state.

Mrs. Eno Akpan, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, thanked the Foundation on behalf of the Ministry, stating that the food items would bring much-needed relief to many families.

In a goodwill message, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Akwa Ibom, who led other council chairmen to the event, assured that the rice would be distributed directly to the most vulnerable across the state’s LGAs.

Also present were representatives of vulnerable groups, including Comrade Ubong Ikpe, Personal Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disabilities, who thanked both the State Government and the Dangote Foundation for their continued commitment to inclusive humanitarian support.

The event was well-attended by local government chairmen, aides to the Governor, ministry officials, and representatives of various community and interest groups.

Chairman, Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, speaking at the distribution in Ikot Ekpene, applauded the Aliko Dangote Foundation for its generous support through the National Food Intervention Programme. He said “we are committed to ensuring that the food items reach the most vulnerable in our communities. Hon. Nkom prayed for continued blessings and prosperity to Aliko Dangote, acknowledging his impact on communities across the country.

Commending the people of Ikot Ekpene for peaceful and well-organized the distribution process, the representative of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, acknowledged their strong coordination and strict adherence to instructions, which made the process smooth and effective.

The distribution exercise was witnessed by delegation from Dangote Foundation, the Leader of the Ikot Ekpene legislative Council, Hon. Nkereuwem Umoh among others. Read More

Female Journalists Demand Action on Safety, Gender-Based Attacks at Lagos Workshop By Adeola ORISILE

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August 4, 2025

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By Adeola Orisile

Female Journalists Demand Action on Safety, Gender-Based Attacks at Lagos Workshop By Adeola ORISILE

Communiqué calls for legal reform, institutional support, and national safety networks to protect women in journalism

Lagos, Nigeria — Female journalists from across Nigeria have called on government, media organizations, and civil society to take urgent and practical steps to guarantee their safety and end the growing wave of gender-based attacks they face in the course of their work.

This demand was made in a communiqué issued at the end of a two-day workshop on the Safety of Female Journalists in Nigeria, organized by Media Rights Agenda (MRA) with support from IFEX, the Toronto-based global network for freedom of expression organizations. The workshop took place at the International Press Centre in Ogba, Lagos, from July 29 to 30, 2025.

The event brought together 24 participants, including female journalists from print, broadcast, and online platforms—both public and private—alongside legal experts, civil society advocates, and media professionals.

In his opening address, Mr. Ayode Longe, MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, highlighted the dual vulnerability of female journalists who, according to him, are often targeted “not only for their professional work but also because of their gender.”

“Female journalists face both subtle and blatant attacks. This workshop aims to empower them with knowledge and tools to seek redress, protect themselves, and continue their vital work without fear,” Longe stated.

He added that the training aligns with the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists, which emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive approaches in tackling threats against journalists.

Participants observed that female journalists in Nigeria continue to endure a disturbing range of threats including sexual harassment, online abuse, gender-based violence, and professional discrimination—all made worse by a lack of institutional support and persistent impunity for perpetrators.

The communiqué lamented the failure of many media organizations to support affected staff, calling the prevailing silence and inaction a major driver of vulnerability among female reporters.

“Media houses often abandon female journalists when they’re attacked, making it impossible for them to confront challenges on their own,” the document stated.

It further condemned the absence of gender-sensitive safety frameworks across media bodies and urged immediate reforms by stakeholders.

The participants made far-reaching recommendations including:

Condemnation and prosecution of all gender-based attacks on journalists by federal and state governments.

Legal reform to include explicit protections for female journalists in both national and state laws.

Media organizations to adopt gender-sensitive policies, ensure safe working environments, and provide legal, psychological, and logistical support to female staff, especially during high-risk coverage.

Establishment of a national protective network for female journalists, anchored possibly by NAWOJ (Nigeria Association of Women Journalists), to foster solidarity and joint advocacy.

Encouraging media employers to provide safe transport and accommodation, especially during late-night or hazardous assignments.

Promotion of open-door reporting policies in newsrooms to allow younger female journalists to report abuse without fear.

The communiqué also urged female journalists to conduct regular threat assessments, prioritize their wellbeing, and take full advantage of annual leave to avoid burnout and health complications.

The participants reaffirmed their commitment to upholding press freedom and gender rights, and called on all stakeholders—including government, media owners, security agencies, civil society, and international partners—to recognize that the safety of female journalists is not just a gender issue but central to democracy and national development.

They thanked Media Rights Agenda for facilitating the important conversation and IFEX for its financial support through its Safety and Justice Grant.

The communiqué was officially adopted in Lagos on July 30, 2025. Read More