Adron Homes has become synonymous with reliability, integrity, and innovation in Nigeria’s real estate sector
Adron Homes Made My Dream Come True” — New Homeowner Shares Inspiring Testimony
For many Nigerians, the dream of owning a home often feels out of reach, clouded by financial limitations, uncertainty, and broken promises. But for Engr. & Mrs. Taiwo Ademola, that dream has become a beautiful reality, made possible by Adron Homes.
Speaking proudly from the comfort of his newly completed home in one of Adron’s thriving estates in Shimawa, Ogun State, Engr. Ademola shared his joy and fulfillment at finally becoming a landlord.
“When I thought about owning a home, it felt like a far-off dream,” he recalled. “But Adron Homes changed everything. Their flexible installment plan gave me the confidence to start. Today, I stand here as a proud homeowner. For anyone still doubting, Adron Homes is real, and they are here to stay.”
The Ademolas’ new home, now dedicated and celebrated, is a symbol of stability, dignity, and the fulfillment of a long-held dream. Their success story is a powerful reminder of Adron Homes’ mission to make quality, affordable housing accessible to every hardworking Nigerian, regardless of financial background.
In his congratulatory message to the family, Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, expressed his delight at yet another fulfilled homeowner.
“At Adron Homes, our vision has always been to make home ownership possible for every Nigerian, and I am glad we are living up to this vision” he stated. “Every key we hand over is a step towards fulfilling that vision”.
He welcomed them into the family, describing this feat as the foundation of new beginnings and joyful memories.
Adron Homes has become synonymous with reliability, integrity, and innovation in Nigeria’s real estate sector. With flourishing estates across Shimawa, Lagos, Abuja, Nasarawa, Epe, Badagry, and beyond, the company continues to redefine affordable luxury and accessible home ownership nationwide.
As more Nigerians like the Ademolas proudly unlock the doors to their dream homes, one truth remains undeniable, with Adron Homes, dreams are not just imagined; they are built, one family, one house, one community at a time. Read More
GTCO Plc becomes the 1st financial services institution in West Africa to achieve listing and trading of its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange
GTCO Becomes First West African Bank Listed on London Stock Exchange
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO Plc), Africa’s leading and most profitable Financial Services Group, has recorded a significant milestone in its growth and expansion journey with the successful admission of its Ordinary Shares to the Equity Shares (International Commercial Companies Secondary Listing) category of the Official List of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and to trading on the main market for listed securities of the London Stock Exchange.
This historic achievement makes GTCO Plc the 1st Financial Services Institution in West Africa to dual list its Ordinary Shares on both the Nigerian and London stock exchanges, and subject to certain criteria, it is expected that the Shares will be transferrable between the two exchanges.
The admission follows the successful pricing of its fully marketed offering (The Offering) on the London Stock Exchange to raise gross proceeds of $105million in exchange for 2.29 billion of new ordinary shares in the company, which was supported by a strong book of high-quality, long-term institutional investors.
Concurrent with the Offering, the Company also gave notice of its intention to cancel the listing of its existing GDRs on the certificates representing certain securities (depositary receipts) category of the Official List of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) and the admission to trading of GDRs on the London Stock Exchange’s main market for listed securities.
Building on the momentum of the successful first tranche of its equity capital raise programme in July 2024, which secured N209 billion, GTCO will deploy the proceeds from the Offering to strengthen its capital base, meet its recapitalization target, and fund strategic expansion across high-growth markets and priority sectors within and outside Nigeria.
It is expected that Admission and unconditional dealing in the Shares will become effective on or before 8.00 a.m. (UK time) on 9 July 2025 under the ticker “GTHC”. Following the cancellation of the GDRs listing, the Company intends to change the ticker symbol for the Shares from “GTHC” to “GTCO” and will issue a separate announcement in due course to that effect.
Commenting on the LSE Listing, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, Mr. Segun Agbaje, said: “Today marks a major milestone—not just for GTCO, but for the future we see for African financial institutions on the global stage. We are incredibly proud to be the 1st Financial Services Institution in West Africa to list our ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange’s main market for listed securities, and even more honored by the trust placed in us by the investing community. For us, this was not just about raising capital. It was about validating the strength of our franchise, the clarity of our strategy, and the discipline with which we execute.”
He further said; “I would like to thank everyone who made this possible—our advisors and legal teams, our longstanding shareholders, the regulators both in Nigeria and in the UK, as well as the Nigerian government for creating an environment that supports our bold ambition and vision to be Africa’s leading financial services institution.”
GTCO’s fully marketed offering attracted long-term institutional capital, reflecting investor confidence in the Group’s fundamentals, governance, and strategic outlook. It also signals improving market sentiment, buoyed by ongoing economic reforms by the Federal Government and a return to traditional orthodox monetary policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria, which has gone a long way to stabilising the macroeconomic environment and gradually restoring investor confidence in Nigeria’s long-term prospects.
About GTCO Plc
GTCO Plc is one of Africa’s leading financial services institutions with a longstanding track record of strong growth, service excellence, and shareholder returns. The Group operates across banking, payments, asset management, and pension administration in eleven countries, including Nigeria, the UK, and key African markets. Read More
The Olota I know would not deliberately hinder progress or ignore what the youths and elderlies in Osi, Ota truly desire.
Filling The Vacant Stool Of Onikosi of Osi, Ota: The Olota That I Know
| By Oyetoro Oluwaseyi
It is no news that preparations are in top gear to fill the vacant stool of one of the quarter stools in Ota, a position left vacant after the transition to the great beyond of late Oba Sikiru Anibire; who hailed from Ikin ruling family, one of the gazetted ruling families in the Osi quarter of Ota.
While the next ruling family had received official letter from His Royal Majesty, Oba Professor Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, the Olota of Ota, asking them to go ahead with the selection process of the new heir apparent to the coveted stool, he enjoined them to make sure that the selection process was carried out in such a manner that depicts ‘transparency and all inclusiveness’, an advise which the family ensured all through the nomination process, at least, that I witnessed.
As common knowledge would have it, there would not be a process as this and doubts about one’s genuineness in the family lineage, even when twins of same parents are jostling for a position; example is as witnessed in the ensuing melee in Alagbado, Lagos.
A section from two stocks out of a possible 8 sections of the Iloti ruling house had earlier raised a petition about a certain candidate, whose personality and acceptability was becoming a threat to their own candidate or camp, raising doubt about his lineage in the Iloti family, where all relevant quarters were put in copy, including the Iloti family hierarchy and His Majesty, the Olota of Ota.
Despite the fact that same petition was shouted down at the day of nomination, one of the quarter kings, the Oloruba of Oruba, Ota, HRH Oba Wadud Eniatimo Deinde, who happened to be a member of Iloti family, insisted that their concern was raised and well attended to before the nomination could go on. A move, which further exposed the petitioner’s lack of ‘genuineness, sincerity and seriousness’ because they were not able to prove the allegation leveled against this gentleman; even when they had the best platform to do so in order to put the matter to rest once and for all, perhaps, in Latin, “onus probandi actori incumbit” which literally means, “He who asserts must prove”.
Fast forward to the nomination exercise, which put forward eight (8) eminently qualified candidates from the prestigious Iloti ruling house, the exercise was conducted in such a way that shows ‘transparency and all inclusiveness’ as advised by the Olota of Ota. Though, the other families stood a better chance of raising a very important ‘point of order’ about the absence of one of the candidates, whom I learnt was far away from home as at when he was nominated, no one raised a dust about this as they do not share a sentiment of ‘bitterness’ playing down in the same family.
Just as the family felt a bit of relief, having concluded a democratic process of nomination exercise which was duly signed by the family hierarchy and witnessed by well over 130 members of same family, there appeared another petition, praying His Majesty, the Olota of Ota, to intervene in the process to ensure that their petition saw the light of the day, this as widely discussed in every corner of Osi, Ota has further asserted that the petitioners were riding on the back of Olota to help them remove the candidate, which to them, is their stumbling block from making their own Candidate stand a better chance.
Meanwhile, Kabiyesi Olota, as the Chiefs law permit, is the prescribed Authority over Osi, Ota. He has invited the petionee with his family members to his palace to come and prove to him if the allegations leveled against them is genuine or not. Though, this has started raising so much concerns amongst the teeming supporters of the candidate and some relevant stakeholders in the society, but I for one, as a close ally and very good son of His Royal Majesty, is appealing to all and sundry not to fidget nor raise any fear because Olota is a well respected royal father whom God has not only given the spirit of kindness and fairness, but also that of integrity, honesty, impartiality and veracity. He will sure supervise that all parties are well attended to without using ambiguity to conceal the truth.
The Olota that I know would not deliberately alter the wheel of progress and pocket who the youths and elderlies in Osi, Ota really wants because he is also a beneficiary of same process as he was widely accepted, loved and wanted prior to his ascension to the throne of his forebears about a decade ago.
Kabiyesi Olota will not throw a spanner in the wheel of progress because our dear Osi has long been begging for genuine and true development.
As the election take place on Tuesday to decide who takes over the mantle of traditional leadership in Osi, Ota, it is duty bound for all of us, both traditional and political leaders, youth groups, families and friends who wants genuine progress for our dear Ota land to rally round whomever the kingmakers will vote as the next Onikosi of Osi, Ota and not attempt to further divide us as a people because our people have endured divisiveness enough than allowing one to happen in one of our quarters.
This is also a call to the kingmakers to maintain the tenents of awon Alaale as move to cow or induce them would surely come, but they should know that the decision they make on Tuesday, has a way of affecting our children’s children even till time immemorial.
God bless the Olota of Ota, God bless Osi, Ota, God bless Ota, God bless Ogun State And God bless Nigeria.
Prince Oyetoro Oluwaseyi is from Iloti Compound, Osi quarters, Ota, Ogun State.
As the rumour mill churns, political watchers across the state — and the nation — are keeping a close eye on the governor’s next move
Defection Rumour: Talks of Gov Adeleke Joining APC Trend In Osun
A political storm is brewing in Osun State amid widespread speculation that Governor Ademola Adeleke is preparing to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The rumour, which has dominated both political circles and public discussions, suggests that Governor Adeleke, who is seeking re-election in 2026, has been offered the APC’s governorship ticket on a platter — a promise that could bypass the party’s internal selection process and guarantee him the party’s nomination.
The development has sparked intense debate within the Osun State chapters of both the APC and PDP, with reactions spilling offline and into community conversations across the state. While neither Adeleke nor the APC has issued a formal statement, the whispers of an imminent political realignment are gaining momentum.
Fueling the speculation, former House of Representatives member and prominent PDP defector, Hon. Wole Oke, made a cryptic social media post on Saturday, July 5, 2025, that many believe alludes to Adeleke’s rumoured switch.
“OSUN 2026! There is no other way. Don’t be surprised if it happens. The herbalism in me foresaw it,” Oke wrote. “But if I were to be the DUKE 001, I would stay back in my club and fight like a man, instead of causing problems in my club and others. The move may be counterproductive. The Talisman from Cuba is waiting and watching.”
Oke’s message, veiled in metaphor, is being interpreted as both a forewarning and a subtle jab at the governor, hinting at internal resistance within political camps and the possible consequences of such a dramatic crossover.
If confirmed, Adeleke’s defection could reshape the political landscape in Osun ahead of the 2026 elections, potentially triggering shifts in party loyalties, campaign strategies, and voter alignment.
As the rumour mill churns, political watchers across the state — and the nation — are keeping a close eye on the governor’s next move.
EFCC Drags Businesswoman to Court Over $700,000 Forex Scam, N190m Theft
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned a Lagos-based businesswoman, Adekemi Folorunsho, before the Lagos State Special Offences Court, Ikeja, for allegedly defrauding a client of $700,000 and dishonestly converting ₦190 million to her personal use under the guise of running a bureau de change operation.
Folorunsho was docked on a three-count charge of conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, and theft. She was arraigned alongside three alleged accomplices, who are currently at large.
According to EFCC counsel, Nanbam Mutfwang, the defendant and her co-conspirators reportedly obtained $700,000 from one Mrs. Osolake Ayodele in 2023 after falsely presenting herself as a licensed foreign exchange broker capable of converting the funds to naira.
In addition, the anti-graft agency accused Folorunsho of dishonestly converting ₦190 million, also belonging to the complainant, to her personal account in October 2021.
The EFCC noted that the alleged offences violate Sections 1(3) and 8(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, as well as Section 285(1) of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2011.
When the charges were read, the defendant pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Her counsel, Mr. Shina Makinde, prayed the court to grant her bail on liberal terms, stating that his client is a reputable entrepreneur who employs over 100 people and had fully complied with the EFCC’s administrative bail conditions.
The prosecution did not oppose the bail request, leaving the matter to the court’s discretion.
Delivering her ruling, Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe granted bail in the sum of ₦50 million with two sureties in like sum. She ruled that the bail conditions must be perfected within two weeks, failing which the defendant would be remanded in custody.
The case was adjourned until October 9, 2025, for trial. Read More
The latest ruling adds to the political drama surrounding the senator, who remains a vocal and controversial figure in the National Assembly
Just In: Court Finds Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Guilty of Contempt, Fines Her N5 Million
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday found suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, guilty of contempt of court, following a satirical apology she posted on social media, in defiance of a subsisting court order.
In a ruling delivered by Justice Binta Nyako, the court held that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s April 7 Facebook post — addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio — constituted a mockery of the court’s gag order on parties involved in the ongoing legal proceedings.
“The apology published by the respondent was a clear violation of the restraining order earlier issued by this court. It was not made in good faith, but in a satirical and contemptuous manner,” Justice Nyako ruled.
As a result, the court imposed a N5 million fine on the embattled senator and directed her to publish a formal apology to the court in two national newspapers as well as on her Facebook page within seven days.
Although the contempt proceedings stemmed from a complaint initiated by Senator Akpabio, the court notably declined to grant any specific reliefs in his favour.
Meanwhile, the court also began delivering judgment on the substantive suit filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan, challenging her six-month suspension from the Nigerian Senate. She had been suspended earlier this year in a move that sparked nationwide debate and criticism from civil society groups.
The latest ruling adds to the political drama surrounding the senator, who remains a vocal and controversial figure in the National Assembly.
“I recall with fond memories the heroic contributions of Peter Rufai in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper”
“A Patriot in Gloves”: President Tinubu Mourns Peter Rufai’s Passing
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has led the nation in mourning the loss of Peter Rufai, one of Nigeria’s most iconic goalkeepers, who passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 61 after a prolonged illness.
In a heartfelt tribute released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Rufai — popularly known as “Dodo Mayana” — as one of Nigeria’s most patriotic sportsmen, whose contributions to the nation’s football history will never be forgotten.
“The President condoles with the Rufai family, friends, and football enthusiasts on the demise of the inimitable goalkeeper fondly called ‘Dodo Mayana’ by his numerous fans and football lovers all over Nigeria,” the statement read.
“President Tinubu notes that Peter Rufai would be remembered as one of those patriotic sportsmen who wrote their names in gold in the sporting annals of Nigeria and the African continent.”
Rufai was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the Super Eagles’ historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in Tunisia — a landmark moment in the country’s football history. He also manned the posts in Nigeria’s debut FIFA World Cup appearance in 1994 and again at the 1998 edition in France.
“I recall with fond memories the heroic contributions of Peter Rufai in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper, followed up with Nigeria’s equally epoch-making, first appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition, dubbed USA ’94,” Tinubu added.
“Rufai was also a strong member of the team at the subsequent edition of the competition in France in 1998.”
President Tinubu also praised Rufai’s trailblazing professional career, noting that he was among the first Nigerian footballers to break into the European leagues — featuring in Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands — thus paving the way for generations of Nigerian talents.
“Having started his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980, Rufai was one of the earliest footballers in Nigeria to go professional, playing in many European countries… bringing honour to the nation and opening a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria,” the statement continued.
Beyond the pitch, Rufai was celebrated for his contributions to youth development. After retirement, he established the Staruf Football Academy in Lagos, where he mentored aspiring footballers and championed the growth of grassroots football.
“After he retired from active football, Peter, a Prince of the Royal House in Idimu, Lagos, set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he continued to inspire, mentor and nurture young footballers,” Tinubu said.
The President concluded his tribute by offering prayers for the repose of Rufai’s soul and comfort for his family, friends, and fans.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, and many others from Nigeria’s sporting and political spheres have also expressed deep sorrow over Rufai’s death, hailing him as a legend whose legacy will endure across generations.
2027: Mass Defection in Akwa Ibom as Seven Reps Dump PDP, YPP for APC
In a major political realignment in Akwa Ibom State, seven members of the House of Representatives have defected from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Young Progressives Party (YPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The move comes just weeks after the state governor, Umo Eno, formally joined the APC, signaling a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.
Six of the defecting lawmakers were elected under the PDP banner: Unyime Idem, Martins Esin, Paul Ekpo, Uduak Odudoh, Okpolu Etteh, and Bassey Okon, while Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo crossed over from the YPP.
Their mass defection appears to mirror the recent political path charted by Governor Eno, who announced his move to the APC in June 2025, citing alignment with national policies and support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms.
“Having completed the rounds of my consultations as your servant, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the All Progressives Congress (APC),” the governor declared.
“We are not joining the APC from a position of weakness, we are joining the APC from a position of strength,” he added, in a defiant tone aimed at critics.
Governor Eno, who assumed office in May 2023, also instructed his commissioners and political appointees to either follow him to the APC or tender their resignations — a directive that further underscored his commitment to the ruling party.
Political observers say Eno’s move may have triggered the wave of defections among federal lawmakers, particularly as Senate President Godswill Akpabio, an APC heavyweight, also hails from Akwa Ibom.
Eno’s switch to the APC follows a similar move by Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who defected from the PDP earlier this year.
Born on April 24, 1964, in Ikot Ekpene Udo in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, Umo Eno is the son of the late Mr. Basey Umo Eno, a Chief Superintendent of Police, and Deaconess Eka Umo Eno. He rose through the ranks in the business and pastoral world before venturing into politics.
With the defection of these seven federal lawmakers, the APC has further strengthened its foothold in Akwa Ibom, a state previously considered a PDP stronghold.
Peter Rufai’s life was not just about guarding goalposts — it was about guarding dreams, breaking barriers, and standing tall for his country
Peter Rufai
Staff Writer| July 4, 2025
Peter Rufai (1963–2025): Farewell to the Royal Guardian of Nigerian Goalposts
Nigeria is mourning the loss of one of its greatest football icons, Peter Rufai, affectionately known as “Dodo Mayana”, who passed away on July 3, 2025, at the age of 61.
A trailblazer, a patriot, and a legend between the posts, Rufai’s life was defined by excellence, resilience, and leadership. From the dusty pitches of Lagos to the bright lights of the FIFA World Cup, his journey was one of royal resolve and national pride.
Rufai’s impact on the sport spanned decades — not only as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during its golden era but also as a mentor, educator, and advocate for youth development. He was a man of many firsts: the first Nigerian goalkeeper to score an international goal, the first to play at two World Cups, and a pillar in Nigeria’s historic 1994 AFCON triumph.
In honour of his legacy, here are 29 remarkable facts that celebrate the life and career of the man who stood tall for Nigeria — both literally and figuratively.
Facts About Peter Rufai – The Super Eagles Legend
Nigerian national soccer team goalkeeper Peter Rufai blocks the ball (ELECTRONIC IMAGE) (Photo by GERARD JULIEN / AFP) (Photo by GERARD JULIEN/AFP via Getty Images)
Royal Beginnings: Born on August 24, 1963, in Oshodi, Lagos, Rufai was the son of a traditional ruler from the Idimu region but turned down his right to the throne to follow his football dreams.
The Name ‘Dodo Mayana’: His famous nickname, evoking mystery and might, became synonymous with greatness in goalkeeping circles across Africa.
European Pioneer: One of Nigeria’s first goalkeepers to break into mainstream European football, Rufai played in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
A Goalkeeper Who Scored: On July 24, 1993, he netted a penalty in Nigeria’s 6–0 win over Ethiopia during a 1994 AFCON qualifier — a rare feat for a goalkeeper.
1994 AFCON Hero: He was the backbone of the Super Eagles squad that lifted Nigeria’s second Africa Cup of Nations title in Tunisia.
World Cup Trailblazer: Rufai was the first Nigerian goalkeeper to feature in the FIFA World Cup, starring in both the 1994 and 1998 editions.
Portuguese Stalwart: His debut season with S.C. Farense in Portugal saw the club achieve their first-ever UEFA Cup qualification, thanks in part to Rufai’s 34-match consistency.
La Liga Experience: At Deportivo de La Coruña, he made headlines by keeping a clean sheet in a 1–0 victory over CD Tenerife in 1998.
65 International Caps: Rufai’s national career spanned 65 appearances — a testament to his consistency and leadership.
Lagos Roots: His football journey began with local clubs Stationery Stores and Femo Scorpions, earning early acclaim.
First Foreign Stint: He took his first professional steps abroad with AS Dragons FC de l’Ouémé in Benin in 1986.
Belgian Foundation: He played for K.S.C. Lokeren and K.S.K. Beveren between 1987 and 1993, laying the groundwork for his European rise.
Dutch Experience: Rufai made 12 appearances in the Eredivisie with Go Ahead Eagles during the 1993–94 season.
Tough La Liga Chapter: His time at Hércules CF (1996–97) was marked by struggles for game time and team relegation.
Final Pro Season: He closed his club career with Gil Vicente FC in Portugal in 1999–2000, serving as an experienced backup.
Football Academy Founder: In 2010, he launched the Staruf Football Academy in Lagos, nurturing young talent with a focus on discipline and academics.
Goalkeeping School in Spain: Rufai settled in Spain in 2003 and opened a goalkeeper school to mentor aspiring players.
Penalty-Stopping Expert: Known for saving crucial penalties, his reflexes and calmness under pressure made him a formidable last line of defence.
Captain Courageous: He captained Nigeria during the 1994 World Cup, providing calm leadership in the nation’s first appearance on the global stage.
A Footballing Son: Rufai’s son, Senbaty, followed in his footsteps, attempting a professional career with Sunshine Stars F.C.
AFCON Veteran: He featured in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments (1984, 1988, 1990, 1992), claiming two silver medals before winning gold in 1994.
Longevity and Discipline: Rufai credited his 20-year professional career to unflinching discipline and focused training.
His Darkest Match: The 4–1 defeat to Denmark at the 1998 World Cup was the most painful memory of his career, which he described as a collective failure.
Education Advocate: He encouraged Nigerian youths to pursue football without abandoning academics, stressing the importance of education.
National Honour: In 2021, the Nigerian government awarded him and his teammates housing in Abuja for their 1994 AFCON success.
Global Influence: His biography appears in 21 languages on Wikipedia, reflecting his broad international legacy.
Inspiration to a Generation: His flamboyant style and confidence inspired future Super Eagles goalkeepers, including Vincent Enyeama.
Coaching and Mentorship: Rufai briefly worked as the U-23 team coordinator, contributing to Nigeria’s grassroots football ecosystem.
Legacy Lives On: The Nigeria Football Federation hailed him as a “giant of Nigerian football” whose legacy will endure for generations.
Final Whistle, Eternal Echo
Peter Rufai’s life was not just about guarding goalposts — it was about guarding dreams, breaking barriers, and standing tall for his country. His story is one of passion, sacrifice, and impact. As Nigeria bids farewell to this royal guardian of the game, his memory remains enshrined in the heart of every fan who ever shouted “Dodo Mayana!” Read More
Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing issued a strong call for accountability across the building sector. Describing building collapse as a “tragedy that has become far too familiar”
Real Estate Industry Experts, Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over Building Collapse In Lagos, Seek Urgent Reforms
The recurring tragedy of building collapse in Lagos once again came under the spotlight today as stakeholders from across Nigeria’s building industry gathered at the University of Lagos for the Professor Leke Oduwaye-Adron Homes Urban Development Dialogue, a high-level forum aimed at addressing regulatory and construction lapses fueling the crisis.
Themed “Recurring Building Collapse in Lagos: The Challenge of Regulatory Oversight and Construction Practices,” the dialogue was organized by the Department of Urban and Regional Planning (DURP), University of Lagos, in collaboration with real estate giant, Adron Homes.
Delivering goodwill remarks, the Group Chairman of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, KOF, issued a strong call for accountability across the building sector. Describing building collapse as a “tragedy that has become far too familiar,” Aare Adetola Emmanuelking emphasized that such disasters are not acts of fate but direct results of human negligence, greed, and systemic failure.
“Buildings do not collapse by accident. They collapse because somewhere along the chain of planning, approval, construction, or supervision, individuals choose to compromise,” he stated firmly”, he stated.
The respected real estate mogul outlined what he termed the three uncompromising actions needed to combat the menace, Verification, Validation, and Control, stressing that all actors within the building industry must be held to the highest standards of competence and ethical responsibility.
The event featured a thought-provoking guest lecture by Tpl. (Dr.) Idris Salako FNITP, former Lagos State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development. Drawing from his vast experience, Dr. Salako delivered a hard-hitting analysis of the root causes of building collapse in Lagos. He identified critical gaps such as weak enforcement of development control regulations, poor coordination between regulatory agencies, and widespread disregard for approved building plans by some developers.
Dr. Salako further highlighted how political interference, corruption, and the proliferation of quack professionals continue to erode the integrity of the building sector. He stressed the urgent need for capacity building among regulatory bodies, proper training and certification of artisans, and the full digitalization of building approval processes to ensure transparency and efficiency.
The dialogue also featured keynote addresses by Tpl. Tunji Odunlami FNITP, Ogun State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, and Professor Ayo Omotayo, Director General, National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru. Both speakers echoed the need for proactive urban planning, robust regulatory frameworks, and collaboration between government, professionals, and private developers to create safer cities.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Tpl. Waheed Kadiri FNITP, PPNITP, Past President, Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (Chairman of the event), Professor Modupe Omirin, Dean, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, UNILAG, Dr. Taofik Salau, Head of Department, DURP, UNILAG, and Dr. S.A. Adeyemi, Chairman, Organizing Committee, among several others.
Participants unanimously called for urgent reforms to curb building failures, emphasizing the need for professionalism, transparency, and stricter enforcement of building regulations.
The dialogue is expected to spark renewed policy debates and strategic actions toward ensuring that Lagos, and indeed Nigeria, builds safe, resilient, and sustainable urban spaces where lives are protected, and dreams can thrive.
