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Gbajabiamila Champions Education Reform in Lagos: Thousands of Students Benefit from Educational Material Distribution

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Femi Gbajabiamila Drives Educational Reform in Lagos, Supporting Thousands of Students
In a major move to bolster Nigeria’s educational system, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, has called on individuals and organizations to join efforts aimed at enhancing the country’s education sector. His appeal was made during the distribution of vital educational materials to students across 23 secondary schools in Surulere, Lagos State, on Wednesday.

The materials, which included textbooks, school bags, exercise books, and mathematical sets, were provided to students from schools such as Ajigbeda Secondary School, Surulere Girls High School, and New Era Girls Secondary School, among others. The initiative is part of Gbajabiamila’s ongoing efforts to support students in the region.

Constituency I lawmaker, Fouad Laguda, Gbajabiamila emphasized that education is the cornerstone of sustainable development.

“Education is the foundation of sustainable development. It’s the bridge between progress and stagnation. This is why it is essential for both government and stakeholders to collaborate to improve the sector,” he said.

Gbajabiamila added that these efforts were part of a long-standing series of educational interventions, which have already impacted over 8,000 students, a testament to his commitment to educational empowerment. He encouraged the students to utilize the materials effectively and strive for excellence.

The Chief of Staff’s educational philanthropy was widely praised by local leaders, including the Vice-Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Muiz Dosunmu, who lauded the initiative as an exemplary display of leadership. “The Chief of Staff’s continued investment in education shows his unwavering commitment to the development of Surulere,” he remarked.

Principals and students alike expressed their gratitude, with Stadium Secondary School’s principal, Christiana Badejo, calling the gesture “a valuable investment in Nigeria’s future.”

Aisha Jimoh, a prefect at Ajigbeda Secondary School, voiced her appreciation on behalf of the beneficiaries, promising that the students would make the most of the provided resources.

This move follows Gbajabiamila’s earlier remarks during Ramadan, urging wealthy Nigerians to reflect on their blessings and support the less fortunate during the holy month. His latest action serves as a further demonstration of his dedication to educational excellence and social responsibility.

Adron Homes Unveils Easter Fiesta with 30% Discount and Flexible Payment Plan

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Adron Homes Unveils Easter Fiesta with 30% Discount and Flexible Payment Plan

In celebration of the Easter season, Adron Homes and Properties Limited has announced the launch of its much-anticipated Easter Fiesta Promo, offering Nigerians a unique opportunity to secure land ownership with a 30 percent discount and flexible payment plans of up to 36 months.

The promo, which runs for a limited period, is designed to make property acquisition easier and more rewarding for families, working professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking to build long-term wealth through real estate.

According to the company, the Easter Fiesta covers its estates located in Lagos, Shimawa, Sagamu, Atan–Ota, Papalanto, Abeokuta, Ibadan, Osun, Ekiti, Abuja (FCT), Nasarawa, and Niger.

Management noted that Easter symbolizes renewal, sacrifice, and new beginnings, values that align with the company’s mission of helping Nigerians secure tangible assets that create generational impact.

“Easter represents hope and a fresh start. At Adron Homes, we believe one of the most meaningful ways to embrace new beginnings is through property ownership. This promo is structured to remove financial barriers and encourage more Nigerians to invest in land, which remains one of the safest and most reliable assets,” the company stated.

Beyond the 30 percent discount, subscribers will also enjoy structured gift packages under both Platinum and Compact plot categories, with milestone-based rewards ranging from food items and livestock to household appliances. The initiative is aimed at providing immediate value while customers build long-term investment portfolios.

Industry analysts have consistently identified land banking in rapidly expanding suburban corridors as a strategic hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. By offering extended installment plans of up to 3 years, Adron Homes is positioning itself as a key player in addressing accessibility challenges in Nigeria’s housing ecosystem.

With verified titles, strategic estate planning, and customer-friendly payment structures, the company continues to reinforce its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading real estate brands.

As the Easter celebration approaches, prospective subscribers are encouraged to take advantage of the limited-time Easter Fiesta offer through accredited marketers and Adron Homes offices nationwide.

This Easter, the company urges Nigerians to look beyond short-term festivities and embrace investments that build a lasting legacy. Read More

‘It’s Enough’ — Do2dtun Defends Adekunle Gold Amid Online Bullying Over Simi’s Old Tweets

Media personality Do2dtun has called for an end to online attacks targeting Afrobeats star Adekunle Gold following renewed controversy over old social media posts linked to his wife, Simi.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Do2dtun praised Adekunle Gold’s contribution to Nigerian music, highlighting his catalogue of classic albums and standout live performances — including what he described as shutting down a national theatre with an electrifying show.

“I think it’s time for you guys to leave AG alone,” he wrote. “He gave us classic albums. This guy shut down a whole national theatre; an amazing performer. His craft is exceptionally untouched.”

The broadcaster expressed concern over what he termed “despicable comments” aimed at the singer and his family, urging fans and critics alike to draw the line between public discourse and harassment.

“I see the most despicable comments about him and his family. Mehn, it’s enough. If we all stand tall in many things in life, let us start with respecting people’s craft and life work,” he added.

Do2dtun maintained that Adekunle Gold remains one of Nigeria’s most significant music exports, insisting that personal controversies should not overshadow artistic achievement.

The appeal comes amid heightened online debate, with supporters and critics clashing over resurfaced posts and their implications for the celebrity couple.

Sunday Igboho Sparks Buzz in APC Fez at Olubadan Event as Return to Nigeria Looms

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Yoruba nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has stirred fresh political debate after he was seen wearing a fez cap emblazoned with the logo of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Igboho attended the first Ramadan lecture hosted by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasheed Ladoja, following the monarch’s coronation. In a now-viral video, the activist was captured greeting the traditional ruler and the event’s guest lecturer, the Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muyideen Salmon, while wearing the APC-branded cap.

The footage quickly ignited reactions online, with many users drawing comparisons between Igboho and detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.

Some critics accused Igboho of aligning with the political establishment he once opposed, while others defended him, arguing that his recent travails may have influenced his stance.

The debate reflects ongoing public interest in the trajectories of prominent separatist figures and their relationships with Nigeria’s political elite.

Meanwhile, Igboho’s spokesman, Olayomi Koiki, disclosed that arrangements have been concluded for his return to Nigeria after traditional rulers reportedly intervened on his behalf.

According to Koiki, monarchs including Oba Ladoja, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remove Igboho’s name from the list of wanted persons.

Igboho fled Nigeria in July 2021 after a joint operation by security agencies raided his Ibadan residence over allegations of stockpiling arms — claims he denied. He was later arrested in Cotonou, Benin Republic, and detained for over a year before being released in March 2022.

Under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Igboho was declared wanted and faced restrictions including passport denial and frozen bank accounts.

Koiki now says his principal has been cleared by the Presidency and could return to Nigeria “at any moment.”

The sighting of Igboho in APC insignia has added a new dimension to discussions about his political future, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.

Whether symbolic or strategic, the moment has reignited conversations about activism, political reintegration, and shifting alliances in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.

Adelabu Hails New Oyo APC Exco, Urges Unity Ahead of 2027 Elections

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The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has congratulated Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo and members of the newly elected Oyo State Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing their emergence as a strategic milestone for the party.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Adelabu said the outcome of the state congress reflected the APC’s commitment to internal democracy, resilience and renewed determination to strengthen its political base in Oyo State.

“I warmly congratulate Chief Alake Adeyemo and all members of the newly elected State Executive Committee. Your emergence at this defining moment in our party’s journey is both timely and strategic,” the minister stated.

Adelabu urged the new executive members to prioritise unity, inclusiveness and grassroots engagement across wards and local government areas.

According to him, the responsibility before the leadership demands cohesion, transparency and a sustained effort to consolidate the party’s structures ahead of future electoral contests, particularly the 2027 general elections.

He expressed confidence in the competence and experience of the new executives, noting that their leadership would be critical in promoting reconciliation and rebuilding trust among party faithful.

The minister emphasised that the APC in Oyo State must remain anchored on its core principles of progressive governance, accountability and people-centred policies.

“Our collective strength lies in our unity. This is the time to build bridges, deepen cooperation and work together to restore and sustain the confidence of our members and the good people of Oyo State,” he said.

Adelabu also pledged his unwavering support to the new executive team, assuring them of active cooperation in repositioning the APC as a formidable political force in the state.

He concluded by wishing Chief Alake Adeyemo and his team a tenure marked by peace, progress and purposeful leadership in service to the party and the people of Oyo State.

Bodija Explosion Victims Demand Fresh Compensation as N30bn FG Fund Sparks Controversy

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Victims and families affected by the devastating explosion that rocked Dejo Oyelese area of Bodija in Ibadan have renewed calls for additional compensation, following revelations that the Federal Government released N30 billion to the state over the incident.

The explosion, which occurred on January 16, 2024, claimed five lives, injured several residents and destroyed property worth hundreds of millions of naira.

The controversy began after a former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, publicly claimed that N50 billion had been released by the Federal Government to support victims.

The Oyo State Government later clarified that only N30 billion had so far been released, adding that the money remains lodged in a bank pending the release of the outstanding N20 billion to complete the N50 billion approved.

The revelation triggered unease among affected residents and political stakeholders across the state.

Chairman of the Bodija Estate Residents Association (BERA), Dr. Muyiwa Bamgbose, said the association had formally written to Governor Seyi Makinde, requesting a meeting to review the compensation earlier paid to victims.

According to Bamgbose, when initial valuations of damaged properties were submitted, residents agreed to significantly reduce their claims due to what the government described as limited funds at the time.

However, with confirmation of the N30 billion release, residents are urging the state government not to return the funds to the Federal Government but to utilise them in paying additional compensation to those whose claims were previously slashed.

“We showed understanding when compensation was reduced due to paucity of funds. Now that more funds are available, those affected should be positively reconsidered,” Bamgbose said.

He added that the association was concluding plans to escalate the matter to draw greater government attention to the plight of victims.

The demand for fresh compensation comes as residents marked the second anniversary of the tragic explosion at a thanksgiving service in January.

While appreciating the government’s support so far, victims insist that the newly disclosed funds present an opportunity to address outstanding losses more equitably.

The Dejo Oyelese explosion remains one of the most tragic incidents in Ibadan in recent years, with families still grappling with its human and economic toll.

Middle East Crisis Grounds Pilgrimages, Strands Nigerians as Airspace Closures Shake Aviation Sector

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Escalating hostilities in the Middle East are sending shockwaves across Nigeria, disrupting pilgrimages, stranding travelers and triggering distress calls from citizens abroad.

The crisis, involving Iran, Israel and the United States, has intensified over Tehran’s nuclear enrichment programme, with retaliatory missile exchanges spreading across parts of the Gulf region, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Jordan.

In response to the deteriorating security situation, the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) announced the immediate suspension of all pilgrimages to Israel.

Executive Secretary of the Commission, Stephen Adegbite, said the decision followed recent developments, including the declaration of a state of emergency in Israel.

“The recent developments in the Middle East have led to the putting on hold of all pilgrimage exercises to Israel, including those conducted by private operators, until the situation normalises,” he said.

The suspension comes barely days after the Commission concluded its 2025 main pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan, with the final batch of pilgrims arriving at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on March 3.

Adegbite emphasised that the safety of Nigerian pilgrims remained paramount and urged prayers for peace in Jerusalem and the wider Middle East.

Meanwhile, some members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), founded by Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, have staged protests in cities including Kano, Kaduna and Lagos in solidarity with Iran.

Reports indicate heavy casualties in the conflict, with hundreds reportedly killed in Iran, while Israel and the United States have also recorded fatalities.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) confirmed receiving distress enquiries from Nigerians in Qatar, the UAE and Iran.

According to NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun, callers sought information about possible evacuation plans should the crisis escalate further.

He assured that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with relevant agencies and urged Nigerians in affected countries to adhere strictly to travel advisories and emergency contacts issued by Nigerian missions.

Airspace closures across the UAE, Qatar, Iran, Israel, Iraq, Kuwait and Syria have forced airlines to reroute flights, increasing operational costs and disrupting schedules.

The National President of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Ben Nnabue, warned that the disruptions could significantly affect Nigeria’s aviation revenue.

“When airlines adjust or suspend frequencies, it affects airport projections and revenue.Aviation is a global village; what happens in one region affects others,” he said.

Nnabue added that many Nigerians remain stranded in Dubai, Qatar and other transit hubs due to cancellations and altered flight frequencies.

Beyond travel disruptions, the crisis has rattled global oil markets, raising concerns about potential economic implications for Nigeria, Africa’s largest crude oil producer.

As tensions persist, Nigerian authorities say they are closely monitoring developments, with the safety of citizens at home and abroad remaining a top priority.

Reps Committee Backs Federal Polytechnics, Demands Stronger Funding and Accountability

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The House of Representatives Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education on Tuesday pledged deeper collaboration with federal polytechnics to tackle longstanding challenges confronting the sector.

Speaking during the resumed budget defence session of federal polytechnics, the committee chairman, Fuad Laguda, described polytechnics as central to Nigeria’s industrialisation and technological advancement agenda.

Laguda acknowledged the institutions’ critical role in producing middle-level manpower, noting that their contributions remain indispensable to national growth and development.

“The country’s quest for technological advancement cannot be achieved without well-funded and properly equipped technical institutions,” he said, emphasising the need for sustained investment in the polytechnic system.

He assured stakeholders of the committee’s support, stating, “We are always partners in progress. Everything we do is to improve and make things work better.”

The lawmaker also urged the Committee of Federal Rectors to ensure that institutions yet to submit their budget documents do so promptly to enable effective legislative oversight.

While approving the budget performance reports of federal polytechnics nationwide, the committee raised concerns over compliance lapses and staffing constraints at the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN).

Laguda questioned the council’s operational structure, particularly the management of eight regional offices with only 58 staff members. He sought clarification on how the council sustains coordination and effective service delivery amid the apparent staffing limitations.

Responding, the CPN Registrar, Adegbiji, assured the committee of the council’s commitment to fulfilling its constitutional mandate. He noted that the CPN is empowered to regulate and accredit private organisations operating within Nigeria’s Information and Communication Technology sector.

He further pledged to submit all requested documents within the stipulated timeframe, reaffirming the council’s readiness to cooperate fully with the committee in the interest of accountability and improved sector performance.

Five Security Officers Arrested Over Airport Breach Linked to El-Rufai at Abuja International Airport

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Five security personnel have been arrested and are set to face prosecution over their alleged roles in a security breach at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on February 12, 2026, in an incident authorities say involved former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, authorities confirmed that the arrests followed a joint investigation into what was described as a serious compromise of airport security protocols.

The investigation was conducted by the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and the Federal Ministry of Aviation.

According to the statement, five officers were detained at the conclusion of the probe. They were identified as Ayuba Yakubu (ASP) – Police; Murtala Inuwa – DSS; Najeeb Murtala (ASI) – NIS; Musa Adamu – Aviation Security; and Salihu Victor – AVSEC.

Authorities alleged that the officers confessed to receiving bribes to facilitate unauthorised access to restricted airport areas and to obstruct lawful security operations.

The suspects have since been handed over to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for prosecution.

The statement further noted that other personnel from the NIS and NCS whose actions were deemed non-criminal — but who allegedly abused their official positions to grant unauthorised access — would face administrative sanctions.

The development is tied to a chain of events involving El-Rufai.

On February 12, 2026, security operatives reportedly attempted to arrest him upon his arrival from Cairo at the Abuja airport. His passport was said to have been seized, while he allegedly declined to accompany operatives without the presentation of a warrant.

Between February 16 and 18, El-Rufai was detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of misappropriating ₦432 billion during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State.

Shortly after he was granted administrative bail by the EFCC, he was rearrested by ICPC operatives between February 18 and 19 and has remained in custody.

In subsequent developments, ICPC operatives searched his residence on Aso Drive, Abuja — a move his legal team described as unlawful and a violation of his rights.

The DSS also filed a three-count charge against El-Rufai over allegations of wiretapping the phone lines of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, following remarks El-Rufai made during a televised interview.

Authorities say investigations and prosecutions connected to the airport breach and related allegations are ongoing.

British Deputy High Commission, ASIRI Launch ‘HerStory of Nigeria’ to Spotlight Women’s Role in Lagos’ Political History

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The British Deputy High Commission has partnered with ASIRI Magazine to launch “HerStory of Nigeria: Women, Power and Protest in Lagos (1910–1950)” as part of activities commemorating International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026.

The project, scheduled for formal unveiling on March 9 in Lagos, aims to spotlight the often-overlooked contributions of women in shaping Nigeria’s socio-political landscape between 1910 and 1950. Organisers say the initiative situates local women’s resistance and activism within the broader Commonwealth narrative of agency, protest and social transformation.

As part of the programme, a flagship event will hold on March 13 at Queen’s College, Lagos, where secondary school students will engage with women’s history through guided storytelling sessions, illustrated educational materials, historical portrait sketches and interactive discussions.

According to the organisers, the initiative underscores ASIRI Magazine’s commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage while restoring women to the centre of the country’s historical narrative.

Founded in 2013, ASIRI Magazine has evolved into one of Nigeria’s largest digital repositories of rare historical photographs and narratives. The platform has led several public history campaigns, transforming archival materials into accessible and engaging storytelling formats for global audiences.

The “HerStory of Nigeria” project adopts a hybrid model, blending physical school engagements with a 15-day digital advocacy campaign. The online campaign, to run across ASIRI’s platforms, will amplify stories shared during school visits through illustrated history posts, educational threads, short features and archival highlights.

Project Director and Founder of ASIRI Magazine, Oludamola Adebowale, described the initiative as positioning history as a tool for advocacy and social change.

“HerStory of Nigeria challenges historical erasure, promotes gender visibility and inspires confidence, civic consciousness and leadership among young girls,” he said.

He added that the IWD 2026 initiative bridges global gender equity conversations with deeply rooted Nigerian historical narratives, reinforcing history as a living resource for identity, empowerment and national memory.

Other partners supporting the project include Zapphaire Events, HIS Nigeria, BellaNaija and Lanre Shasore.

Adebowale, an archivist, historian and curator, is an Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society (UK) and a member of the International Council on Archives. Through ASIRI Magazine, he has spearheaded exhibitions, produced historical media content and developed educational tools aimed at making Nigeria’s past more accessible to present and future generations.