FG awards N2.5bn to 45 student ventures at 2026 S-VCG Bootcamp in Lagos

The Federal Government has awarded N2.5 billion in grants to 45 outstanding student ventures at the 2026 Student Venture Capital Grant S-VCG Bootcamp and Awards, held at the UNDP Innovation Hub in Lagos.

The winners were selected from a pool of 65 finalists after a rigorous screening process, according to a statement shared on the Federal Ministry of Education’s official page.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Education Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to turning tertiary institutions into hubs of innovation, entrepreneurship and practical problem solving as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Beneficiaries can access up to ₦50 million in equity-free funding, alongside mentorship, incubation support and digital tools. With over 30,000 applications from 404 institutions,” Alausa said.

According to the statement, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani, highlighted the role of digital innovation in shaping future businesses, while Suwaiba Said Ahmad praised the finalists for their creativity and determination.

Other stakeholders, including Muntari Dandutse and Elsie Attafuah, urged continued investment in youth-driven innovation to sustain momentum and support the country’s economic growth.

FG awards N2.5bn to 45 student ventures at 2026 S-VCG Bootcamp in Lagos

SSANU, NASU issue strike notice over renegotiation of 2009 agreement

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, and the Non Academic Staff Union (NASU) have issued a strike notice, signaling industrial action over the ongoing renegotiation of the 2009 salary structure agreement for university workers.

The unions cited unresolved issues regarding the full implementation of the 2009 agreement as the primary cause of their planned action.

Both SSANU and NASU said that “repeated calls for dialogue with the federal government have not yielded meaningful progress, leaving workers frustrated”.

In a joint statement, the unions warned that the strike would commence if the federal authorities fail to meet their demands, urging the government to urgently address the concerns of university staff to prevent disruption to academic activities nationwide.

They expressed concern over the potential impact on students’ academic calendars, as prolonged industrial actions in the education sector often lead to delays in examinations and session timelines.

This development adds to a growing list of labor disputes in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector, highlighting persistent challenges in staff welfare and government union relations.

SSANU, NASU issue strike notice over renegotiation of 2009 agreement

Controversy brews over reintroduction of monthly environmental sanitation in Lagos

The Lagos State Government has announced the reintroduction of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, set to commence on Saturday, April 25, 2026, sparking a mix of applause, criticism, and legal scrutiny among residents, legal practitioners, and online communities.

While the state insists on enforcement, the move has reignited debates over citizens’ rights, government responsibility, and the practicality of sustaining a cleaner Lagos in a 24-hour city.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in announcing the April 2026 revival, emphasized that the exercise will now be enforced with a more balanced approach, seeking public cooperation rather than relying solely on movement restrictions.

The state government insists the initiative is crucial to improving environmental hygiene, reducing flooding, and fostering a sustainable civic culture, even as it pledges support for residents to ensure compliance.

The monthly environmental sanitation exercise, which had been a staple of civic engagement in Lagos, was suspended in November 2016 following a Court of Appeal ruling that declared the mandatory lockdowns during the exercise unconstitutional.

The court held that restricting residents’ movement between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. on sanitation days violated citizens’ rights to personal liberty and freedom of movement, emphasizing that directives by a governor do not have the force of law and cannot justify fines, arrests, or harassment.

At the time, then-governor Akinwunmi Ambode officially ended the exercise’s mandatory aspect, though the responsibility of maintaining a clean environment remained with both the government and citizens. Since then, Lagosians have relied on voluntary participation, though waste management challenges and inconsistent public compliance have persisted.

The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Environment and the Task Force on Environmental Sanitation, insists the exercise is crucial to improving environmental hygiene, reducing flooding, and fostering a sustainable civic culture.

“The exercise is not just about cleaning streets; it’s about instilling a culture of cleanliness in Lagos,” Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Task Force on Environmental Sanitation and Other Related Offences said.

“Residents’ cooperation is key, and while we will enforce the exercise, we are also providing guidance and support to ensure compliance.”

Officials noted that the reintroduction differs from previous versions, as the exercise is designed to work without strict movement restrictions, focusing instead on public enlightenment, systematic waste collection, and collaboration with community leaders. Enforcement will begin at 6:30 a.m. on April 25 and run until 8:30 a.m.

Residents of Lagos have expressed a wide range of opinions about the exercise, highlighting the challenges of balancing civic responsibility with daily livelihoods.

Supporters say the move is timely and necessary. Raymond Olugbenga, a trader in Ijora Badia, told DAILY POST, “For years, Lagos has struggled with waste management. Reintroducing the monthly sanitation exercise is a welcome step. It will restore environmental sanity, reduce the risk of flooding, and encourage residents to take responsibility for their surroundings. People must understand that a clean Lagos benefits everyone.”

He added, “Yes, enforcement is necessary. Some form of guidance or mild oversight helps ensure people don’t just ignore the exercise. If this is done right, Lagosians will gradually embrace it as part of daily life.”

Similarly, Elder Folorunsho Atta of Gowon Estate noted, “Lagosians remember the War Against Indiscipline during the military era. That initiative succeeded because it was systematic, not just symbolic. Today, the government has to focus on education, consistent enforcement, and prompt waste collection to make this exercise work without restricting movement.”

Critics, however, remain unconvinced. Some residents allege that the government could use the exercise to extort money or disrupt business activities.

“Honestly, I think this is another way for authorities to collect fines from residents or interfere with our businesses,” a small-scale entrepreneur in Surulere, Christopher Chukwuka said.

“If enforcement is not properly structured, some agents may take advantage of the situation. People are worried that our shops will be closed or movement restricted under the guise of sanitation,” he added.

Olawole Adeyemi, a resident of Jakande Estate, added, “It’s unrealistic to expect residents to comply fully without seeing an improvement in waste management systems. Lagos residents already clean their immediate surroundings, but if LAWMA doesn’t collect the waste promptly, the exercise becomes symbolic rather than practical.”

Several legal experts have examined the constitutional implications of the exercise, particularly regarding enforcement.

Femi Falana (SAN), a senior human rights lawyer, expressed caution: “Reintroducing compulsory sanitation with movement restrictions is unconstitutional. Past court rulings, including the Faith Okafor v. Lagos State Government case, clearly state that directives by a governor cannot override citizens’ rights to personal liberty and freedom of movement. Enforcement should respect these rights while encouraging voluntary compliance.”

Another legal practitioner, Ige Asemudara, said, “The government is now navigating the delicate balance between environmental enforcement and citizens’ constitutional rights. By eliminating movement restrictions, they appear to be acting within the law. Enforcement must focus on compliance with environmental laws rather than coercion.”

Social media has also reflected the mixed opinions. Some users celebrated the government’s effort to maintain a cleaner city: @LagosGreenWarrior tweeted: “Finally! Lagos needs this. Citizens must play their part too. Cleaner streets = healthier Lagos. #SanitationReform”

Others criticized the initiative as outdated and economically disruptive:
@NaijaHustlerX commented: “How can you ask people to stop their businesses for hours to clean? This is 2026, not 1984. Fix waste collection and stop extorting money from residents. #LagosWasteCrisis”

Experts argue that success will depend heavily on addressing systemic waste management issues. The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, has faced criticism for delayed collection, inconsistent evacuation of waste, and inadequate recycling systems.

Akintayo Omotosho, an environmental activist, told DAILY POST, “If the government wants this to succeed, it must ensure prompt removal of collected waste. Otherwise, the exercise risks being merely ceremonial. Residents must also be empowered to manage local waste through community associations and market leaders.”

The reintroduction of the monthly sanitation exercise represents more than just cleaning streets; it is a test of Lagosians’ commitment to civic responsibility and environmental stewardship. With enforcement slated for April 25, 2026, the government will need to combine education, community participation, and systematic support to achieve genuine results.

Controversy brews over reintroduction of monthly environmental sanitation in Lagos

NANS crisis: Student leaders reject alleged manipulation of Lagos JCC election

Six of the ten student leaders who participated in the election of new executives for the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Joint Campus Council, JCC, Lagos Axis, have rejected what they described as an attempt to alter the outcome of the poll.

The group, operating under the banner of Concerned Senators of NANS JCC, Lagos Axis, made their position known in a statement issued on Sunday, accusing the convention chairman of trying to override the result declared by the voting delegates.

The dissenting senators include Adikaibe Emmanuel Chimezim of St. Augustine College of Education; Omogunle Monday Igbekele of Yaba College of Technology; David Gabriel of Lagos State University of Science and Technology; Oladokun Sodiq Olaide of Lagos State College of Nursing; Adebayo Korede Peter of Lagos State University; and Bolaji Olatubosun Akinpelu of the University of Lagos.

The election, which held on Saturday, brought together ten student leaders representing tertiary institutions across Lagos State, who served as senators tasked with electing a new chairman for the council.

According to the statement, the convention took place at the Federal College of Education, Akoka, in the presence of security agencies, including operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, and the Nigeria Police, to ensure a transparent and credible process.

The senators explained that the chairmanship contest featured two candidates; Comrade Odewunmi Quadri and Comrade Rilwan Ajayi, with Quadri reportedly securing six votes, while Ajayi garnered four.

They, however, alleged that the convention chairman announced a different outcome, declaring the result a 5-5 tie and indicating his intention to exercise a veto to determine the winner.

The group described the move as a violation of both the electoral process and the constitution governing NANS, insisting that the votes cast clearly produced a winner.

“There was no tie in the election. The result was clear, and the majority had already spoken. There is no provision in the NANS constitution that empowers a convention chairman to override the decision of duly accredited voters,” the senators stated.

They further warned that any attempt to tamper with the outcome of the election would be considered invalid and unacceptable.

“Any manipulation of the process amounts to a nullity. The will of the majority must be respected at all times,” the statement added.

NANS crisis: Student leaders reject alleged manipulation of Lagos JCC election

Vehicle stolen in Benue recovered 11 years later in Ebonyi

The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has detailed how a Toyota Camry reported stolen in Benue on August 13, 2015, was eventually recovered 11 years later in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

The vehicle was traced during a routine verification exercise at the National Vehicle Identification Scheme, NVIS, Desk Office.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja by the Acting Corps Public Education Officer, ACPEO, Mrs. Felicia Kalu.

According to the statement, the recovery process was triggered when officials from the Motor Licensing Authority, MLA, under the Ebonyi State Board of Internal Revenue submitted documents for vehicle registration.

This prompted the NVIS Desk Officer to conduct the standard verification checks.

Kalu explained that inconsistencies were detected in the vehicle’s records, and further investigation revealed that it was originally registered to Mr. Adeka Akoji.

“The original owner was immediately contacted and confirmed that the vehicle had been stolen from him in Benue on Aug. 13, 2015.

“Acting on the information, the FRSC alerted the Nigeria Police, leading to a coordinated operation.Nigerian Business Directory

“Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad in Abakaliki subsequently recovered the vehicle on March 27, 2026, at about 1:50 p.m.

“The vehicle, a Toyota Camry saloon, was found to have been re-registered with a new plate number, NKE500AE, after bearing its original registration number, MKD659AG, in an apparent attempt to conceal its identity,” he said.

Reacting, Corps Marshal Malam Shehu Mohammed described the development as proof of the NVIS system’s effectiveness in protecting vehicle ownership and strengthening national security.

He noted that the scheme remains vital for tracking, verifying, and retrieving stolen vehicles across the country.

Mohammed also praised the officers involved for their professionalism and commended the collaboration between the FRSC and the police.

He reaffirmed the Corps’ resolve to leverage technology and intelligence-based approaches to eliminate stolen and improperly registered vehicles from Nigerian roads.

The FRSC boss further urged motorists and stakeholders to ensure proper documentation and verify vehicles through the NVIS platform before purchase or registration.

He added that the Corps would sustain intensified monitoring and enforcement nationwide.

(NAN)

Vehicle stolen in Benue recovered 11 years later in Ebonyi

Tinubu’s achievements: You’re always in studio, don’t know what’s happening – Ajiboye tells Arise journalist

The Executive Secretary, National Institute for Cultural Orientation, Biodun Ajiboye on Saturday, told Arise News journalist that she appears to be oblivious of what is happening in Nigeria as regards to the achievements of the Tinubu administration.

Ajiboye was asked to speak on some of the socio economic indices that the President has turned around and what he has improved in real data terms under this presidency.

Instead of responding to the questions, the Tinubu’s appointee told the journalist that she does not know what is happening in Nigeria having confined herself in the studio.

However, he went further to say that from where Nigeria was before the 2023 elections, there was no other way but to embark on President Tinubu’s bold reforms.

“Just because you’re always in the studio, you probably don’t know what is going on in Nigeria,” he said.

He, however, later talked about good things the party has done but failed to provide in data terms, what socio economic indices have improved under the President such as life expectancy, maternal mortality, childhood education, poverty levels, health outcomes, childhood outcomes, amongst others.

However, he apportioned blames to the Buhari administration saying, “When you have the kind of economic confusion doldrum that we had in Nigeria, a lot of reasons accounted for the economic situation. We ran into so much confusion with economic confusion, with respect to many factors.

“Our borrowings were ballooning, a subsidy was a cankerworm and indiscriminate injection of funds into the economy by printing N30 trillion and all of that were situations that needed a quick there were situations that will exaggerate poverty, will exaggerate social, social social protection…”

Tinubu’s achievements: You’re always in studio, don’t know what’s happening – Ajiboye tells Arise journalist

Arsenal’s Max Dowman told to leave club immediately

TalkSPORT presenter, Adrian Durham, has told Arsenal youngster Max Dowman to leave the Premier League North London club as soon as possible when the summer transfer window starts.

Durham fears Dowman’s career will stagnate under manager Mikel Arteta if he remains at the Emirates Stadium beyond this summer.

He argued that the 16-year-old’s future would be best served by continuing his education elsewhere, as he highlighted the career trajectory of Myles Lewis-Skelly under Arteta.

“Max Dowman needs to leave Arsenal as soon as possible,” Durham said as quoted by Metro UK.

“Dowman has seen Myles Lewis-Skelly’s career derailed by Mikel Arteta. He’s not even third choice left-back now – [Piero] Hincapie and [Riccardo] Calafiori ahead of him in a Wembley final.

“He was a midfielder in the youth team and got to a Youth Cup final in midfield.

“Even with [Martin] Zubimendi looking like a League One player, [Declan] Rice’s numbers are shocking, and [Mikel] Merino is injured. Lewis-Skelly isn’t going to get a look in there; he’s third choice left-back.

“So Max Dowman needs to take a look at these things and realise that he’s just another tick in Mikel Arteta’s box.”

Dowman was against Everton, scoring a late goal to seal Arsenal’s victory after Arteta featured him from the bench a few weeks ago.

Arsenal’s Max Dowman told to leave club immediately

APC showing the way under Tinubu – Akpabio mocks opposition

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said the All Progressives Congress, APC, is leading due to the leadership style of President Bola Tinubu.

Akpabio said Tinubu’s leadership style is strengthening the APC while reducing the influence of the opposition in Nigeria.

He made this known at the APC 8th National Convention and 4th Elective Convention in Abuja, on Friday.

Akpabio said: “APC is showing the way. I want to say that, as a result of the good governance brought by Mr President, there are now only two political parties in Nigeria: APC and others. APC and others.

“Mr President, since you came on board as President, this is your first major convention. The last one was when you became the candidate of our great party.

“I thank you because what is attracting all of us and all Nigerians to the APC today is good governance.

“From removing subsidies, to harmonising the idea of multiple exchange rates, and to your reforms in the education sector, you have brought about progress that now gives students greater opportunities for national education.

“You have brought about agricultural revolution. Your policies are real. Now people can travel from Lagos all the way to Ibadan. Now people can travel from Lagos to Calabar.

“As I speak now, I have taken a ride through the coastal roads that we contemplated 50 years ago in the Niger Delta region.”

APC showing the way under Tinubu – Akpabio mocks opposition

Ogun: FRSC records 80 fatalities, apprehends 11,717 offenders in 3 months

The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Ogun Sector Command, says it recorded 80 road crash fatalities and arrested no fewer than 11,717 offenders between January to March 2026.

The Sector Commander, Corps Commander Akinwunmi Fasakin, disclosed this on Friday.

Fasakin explained that fatalities when compared to the first quarter of 2025, dropped from 98 to 80 in 2026, while injuries decreased from 488 to 366

He added that the number of persons involved in crashes fell from 1,582 to 1,172, stressing that the figures indicate heightened enforcement in the state.

He however, lamented the surge in offenses and other traffic violations, disclosing that a total number of 9,661 offenders were arrested in the first three months.

“Statistics showed a surge in detected offenses, rising from 7,647 in 2025 to 11,717 in 2026, with the number of apprehended offenders increasing from 6,822 to 9,661,” he said.

The commander harped on the need for continuous public education at all levels to further instill a culture of safety in residents.

He disclosed several landmark achievements under his leadership, including the construction of a standard quarter guard and asphalting of the command’s premises.

Fasakin also called for more funding and capacity-building initiatives.

Ogun: FRSC records 80 fatalities, apprehends 11,717 offenders in 3 months

‘Erring lawyers should be sentenced to undergo therapy’ – Nigerian Law Society backs judges against NBA

The Nigerian Law Society, NLS, has proposed that lawyers who engage in unprofessional conduct in court should be sentenced to undergo anger management therapy.

Executive Secretary of the NLS, Dr Tonye Clinton Jaja, made the proposal while reacting to what he described as rising level of unethical conduct among Nigerian lawyers. He also faulted the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, for issuing statements to reprimand judges who took action to check alleged unprofessional conduct by some lawyers.

DAILY POST reports that, in a recent incident, Justice Mohammed Umar of the Abuja Federal High Court ordered Marshall Abubakar, the lead defence counsel to politician and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, to step forward and kneel in open court for raising his voice during proceedings.

NBA, in a statement issued by its President Afam Osigwe, SAN, condemned the judge’s action, stressing that he has no right to ask a lawyer to kneel in court.

In a subsequent statement, the NBA also condemned the action taken by Justice Chinwendu Nwogu of the Rivers High Court, who convicted and ordered the detention of a lawyer, Lovinah Ugbana Benjamin, counsel to the Nigerian Navy, for allegedly making false statements and imputations against the court in a written address she filed.

The NBA also faulted Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia of the Abuja Federal High Court for ordering the detention of Martin Anyanwu, a lawyer with the Federal Medical Center, Keffi, in the court’s holding facility on March 25, 2026.

NBA said the judges’ actions demean lawyers, and erode the dignity of the legal profession.

However, Jaja, in a statement dated March 26, 2026, backed the judges, noting that rather than demeaning lawyers, the judges are actually safeguarding what he described as the little dignity that is left with the legal profession in Nigeria.

The legislative drafting expert, who said he was speaking on behalf of all non-litigation lawyers in the country, who are under the umbrella of the Nigerian Law Society, thanked the judges for taking firm action against erring lawyers.

“On behalf of the entire community of non-litigation lawyers of Nigeria, under the umbrella of the Nigerian Law Society (NLS), let me begin by saying a big thank you.

“We are immensely grateful for the role that you all (collectively and individually) play as the last bastion and beacon for safeguarding the little dignity that is left with the legal profession in Nigeria.

“We immensely appreciate how on a daily basis within the courtrooms across Nigeria you all (collectively and individually) have to deal with one form of discourtesy and professionally unethical conduct of Nigerian lawyers.

“As of March 2025, based on the empirical records submitted by the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee, (LPDC), the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) admitted that an increasing number of Nigerian lawyers are no longer complying with professional ethics.

“Instead of joining voices and hands with the judiciary to tackle this menace of increasing number of Nigerian lawyers who are committing more and more unprofessional conduct, Afam Osigwe, SAN, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, is reported to be “reprimanding” Nigerian judges,” the statement said, noting that it is on record that the NBA itself is complicit in its selective enforcement of the decisions of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee, LPDC.

To further address the problem of unprofessional conduct among lawyers, Jaja urged Nigerian judges to henceforth consider their courtrooms as finishing schools, where lawyers would be purged of any manner of misconduct.

He also proposed the establishment of anger management and therapy centres in Nigerian courts. According to him, erring lawyers should be sentenced to undergo anger management courses in the centres.

He also proposed that lawyers sentenced to undergo the course should be made to pay for the tuition from their own pockets, as a form of penalty.

The statement added, “As a matter of necessity, we write to encourage all Nigerian judges and judicial officers to henceforth consider their courtrooms as “finishing schools” to tackle the menace of unprofessional conduct amongst Nigerian lawyers.

“A finishing school is a private institution, historically for young women, focused on teaching social graces, etiquette, poise, and cultural skills to prepare them for upper-class society. It acts as a final “finishing” touch to a formal academic education, preparing individuals for social life.

“As a matter of the necessity, every Nigerian courtroom must henceforth establish an “anger management” and therapy centre to enable judges to sentence erring lawyers to undergo anger management therapy.

“The lawyers who are sentenced to undergo such anger management therapy sessions must pay for such sessions from their own pockets.”

While suggesting that judges should be supported to handle erring lawyers, Jaja noted that a three-month test run of the proposal would reduce cases of unprofessional conduct among Nigerian lawyers.

‘Erring lawyers should be sentenced to undergo therapy’ – Nigerian Law Society backs judges against NBA

ASUU issues 4-day ultimatum to Nigerian govt over new salary structure

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, has handed the Federal Government a four-day deadline to begin implementing the newly approved salary structure for lecturers across the country.

The union’s president, Christopher Piwuna, announced the ultimatum on Thursday during a public lecture at Sa’adu Zungur University, Yuli Campus, Bauchi State.

According to him, the countdown begins immediately, urging the government to commence payment under the agreed salary framework without delay.

“We have issued a four-day ultimatum from today to the Federal Government to begin the payment of the newly approved salary structure. Failure to comply will attract a strong response from the union,” he said.

Piwuna explained that the demand is part of ongoing efforts to improve lecturers’ welfare and tackle persistent issues of poor pay, which he linked to brain drain and the gradual decline in the quality of higher education in Nigeria.

He further lamented that although multiple agreements have been reached with the government over time, execution has remained inconsistent, often triggering disputes and industrial actions.

Observers warn that the fresh ultimatum could escalate tensions between the union and the government, raising concerns about a possible strike if the demands are not met within the given timeframe.

The union has a long record of embarking on nationwide strikes to push its demands actions that have repeatedly disrupted academic activities in public universities and impacted millions of students.

ASUU issues 4-day ultimatum to Nigerian govt over new salary structure

Lagos 2027: Zoning permutations tilt towards Ambode, Abiru, others for APC guber ticket

As activities towards the 2027 governorship elections set in motion, political permutations, as usual, are taking the centre stage.

In Lagos State, activities are gradually gathering momentum following the directive by President Bola Tinubu, mandating political appointees with aspirations for elective offices to resign on or before March 31.

The directive has triggered heightened political tension, consultations and permutations across the state, with observers and party insiders speculating on the possible zoning arrangements and likely contenders for the governorship ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Political observers are of the view that the emerging dynamics within the party may likely support the governorship ticket being zoned to the Lagos East senatorial district.

The development has pushed some prominent political figures from the zone to engage in early discussions for the party’s ticket.

Among those frequently mentioned in political circles are a former Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, the senator representing Lagos East, Adetokunbo Abiru, the Minister of State for Health, Tunji Alausa and a member of the House of Representatives, Jimi Benson.

Others being taunted are Hakeem Muri Okunola, a lawyer and Principal Secretary to President Tinubu and Femi Gbajabiamila, also a lawyer and former Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Although party sources maintain that consultations are still ongoing and that the party leadership is yet to make any official pronouncement on zoning, there are indications that the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, may feature prominently in the unfolding political permutations.

It is speculated that he could represent Lagos West in the Senate in a strategic power-sharing arrangement within the party.

Lagos West intensifies push for deputy governor slot

Attention has also turned to the deputy governorship position, with political watchers suggesting that the slot may likely be zoned to Lagos West as part of a broader political balancing formula within the state.

The possibility has triggered intense lobbying across that axis, particularly in the Badagry division and other political blocs in the district, where stakeholders are said to be seriously consulting to ensure that the zone secures the number two position in the state.

Party insiders said leaders and political stakeholders from the zone had stepped up behind-the-scenes engagements within the APC structures, arguing that the senatorial district, the largest and politically most expansive in the state, deserves greater representation in the state’s top executive leadership.

The agitation has reportedly drawn the involvement of major party blocs within the APC, including the influential Justice Forum and the Mandate political structures, both of which have historically played decisive roles in the emergence of deputy governors in the state.

Among those being mentioned for the deputy governorship position are the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, former Oriade Local Government chairman, Ramota Hassan-Ijaiye; Lagos State Commissioner for Basic Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun; Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government, Prince Lanre Sanusi and former Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Chairman, Ayodele Adewale, popularly known as “Lord Mayor.”

Also being mentioned within the political conversations are Samuel Ajose, popularly known as SMA and Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adeniran.

Within the Badagry division of Lagos West, political discussions have also spotlighted Prince Wale Oluwa, a technocrat whose name, party sources say, has been gaining traction in the ongoing consultations within the party.

Stakeholders from the division are said to be intensifying advocacy for a candidate from the Badagry axis, arguing that the area has historically played significant roles in the electoral fortunes of the party, and deserves strategic consideration in the emerging political equation.

Meanwhile, another school of thought within the political establishment suggests that both Adeniran and Ajose may also be under consideration for possible federal appointments outside the state.

Factors likely to shape final decisions

Political watchers have noted that several factors would likely influence the eventual choices for both the governorship and deputy governorship tickets.

These include religious balancing, generational considerations and the recurring debate over indigenous representation within the state’s political leadership.

Looking at the religious angle, there are indications that some stakeholders are rooting for a Muslim candidate to succeed the incumbent governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who is a Christian.

In addition, political analysts said the question of indigenous representation had resurfaced strongly in recent political conversations, with some Lagos political blocs advocating greater inclusion of indigenes in key leadership positions.

Another permutation gaining attention within the political circles suggests a possible arrangement in which Lagos East would produce the governor, Lagos Central, the deputy governor and Lagos West, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly.

As consultations continue across party structures and political camps, analysts agree that the coming months are likely to witness increased political alignments and realignments as aspirants and their supporters intensify efforts to position themselves ahead of the APC’s eventual decision on zoning and candidate for the 2027 governorship race.

Lagos 2027: Zoning permutations tilt towards Ambode, Abiru, others for APC guber ticket

Defence Minister Musa urges students to tackle insecurity with research, innovation, patriotism

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has urged students in Nigerian tertiary institutions to harness research, innovation and patriotism to address the nation’s escalating security challenges.

Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the Student Mentorship Summit, organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), General Musa, represented by his Special Adviser, Olusanya Bankole, emphasised that Nigerian students remain central to national development.

He observed that many of the world’s most advanced military technologies originated from universities, stressing that the role of Nigerian students in securing the country cannot be overstated.

According to him, “Across the world—from Israel to the United States—students drive research and development, including innovations like GPS and the first unmanned drones.”

He advised students never to limit themselves, noting that the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has created more opportunities for young people, including access to interest-free loans through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

The minister stressed that mentorship must be coupled with patriotism, discipline and personal responsibility, emphasising that students are not only the leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today, as security is not solely a military concern but a concern for all.

He lamented that national insecurity has dire human consequences, recounting the experience of a woman rescued from Sambisa Forest who had endured multiple abductions and acts of violence, observing that her story underscores the urgency of tackling insecurity through a whole-of-society approach.

Musa said, “No country can absorb the refugee crisis that would follow if Nigeria fails. We must all be committed to defending this nation.”

He urged students to remain vigilant, share useful information with security agencies and emulate mentors whose values uphold integrity and service, stressing that Nigeria’s security depends not only on the armed forces but also on the collective vigilance and commitment of its citizens, particularly the youth.

The special assistant to the president on students’ engagement, Sunday Asefon, encouraged students to remain hard-working and focused to achieve their goals, assuring that President Tinubu is committed to improving students’ welfare and expanding access to quality tertiary education.

He highlighted key reforms such as the establishment of NELFUND for interest-free loans, greater youth inclusion in governance, and continued investment in education quality and retention.

Defence Minister Musa urges students to tackle insecurity with research, innovation, patriotism

GBY slams protest over FUT Minna Bosso campus ownership dispute

The Gbegnu Boknu Yako Association, GBY, has criticised a protest against the Federal University of Technology, FUT, Minna, over the ownership dispute surrounding its Bosso Campus, describing the action as misguided and politically driven.

The protest, led by the convener of the Concerned Nigerlites Forum, questioned the ownership of the campus between the Federal Government and the Niger State Government, and called for actions including the removal of the university’s vice chancellor.

Reacting in a statement issued in Minna, the President of GBY in Niger State, Bako Wakili Bosso, said the demonstration was based on misinformation and failed to reflect the genuine interests of the people.

According to him, FUT Minna is a federal institution established by law, and any concerns regarding land ownership should be handled through appropriate legal and administrative processes rather than public agitation.

He described the demand for the sacking of the vice chancellor as unfounded and politically motivated, warning that such calls could destabilise the institution.

Wakili Bosso also raised concerns about the credibility of the protest’s convener, alleging a pattern of “commercial activism,” which he said undermines genuine civic engagement.

He said the association rejects the protest in its entirety and urged members of the public to disregard its claims.

The GBY president further called for calm, encouraging stakeholders to allow dialogue and lawful engagement between the federal and Niger State governments to address any outstanding issues.

He stressed the importance of protecting higher institutions from unnecessary politicisation, noting that such actions could hinder their roles in education, research and community development.

The association reiterated its commitment to peace, unity and constructive dialogue in addressing issues affecting the state.

GBY slams protest over FUT Minna Bosso campus ownership dispute

Ministry, Pro-Chancellor address rumoured crisis in Ebonyi Federal University

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Uburu, Ebonyi State, Barrister Adebayo Shittu, has dismissed allegations of an administrative rift within the institution, describing the claims as false and misleading.

Shittu, who spoke with journalists, Wednesday, said there was no crisis between the Governing Council and the management, stressing that the institution remained stable and focused on its academic mandate.

He also refuted claims that he had been sidelined in the affairs of the university, noting that such assertions were baseless.

“I have no complaint against anybody and nobody has sidelined me,” he said, adding that his decades of experience in public service make such a situation unlikely.

He urged the media to disregard negative reports about the institution, describing them as attempts by unnamed individuals to create unnecessary tension.

Following his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Jesse Uneke, said members of the Governing Council were on campus for their statutory meeting, contrary to claims that the council was not functioning.

“As you can see, the council is meeting. Any suggestion that it is not working is not correct,” he said.

Uneke added that the university remained stable both academically and administratively, attributing ongoing infrastructural development in the institution to effective oversight by the council.

He advised members of the public to verify information directly from the university, rather than relying on unconfirmed reports.

Also speaking, a member of the Governing Council, Barrister Saliou Bamidele Aluko, described allegations that the council had been hijacked as untrue.

He said the council operates independently and carries out its responsibilities without interference.

According to him, council meetings are conducted thoroughly and in line with established procedures.

A representative of the Federal Ministry of Education on the council, Paul Okpe, also dismissed the reports, describing them as unfounded.

He said there was no crisis in the university and that the council and management were working in harmony.

The university management maintained that the institution remains open to scrutiny and encouraged stakeholders to seek clarification through official channels.

Ministry, Pro-Chancellor address rumoured crisis in Ebonyi Federal University

Nigerian Newspapers: 10 things you need to know Thursday morning

Good morning! Here is today’s summary from Nigerian Newspapers:

1. The two Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, factions have restarted the faltering peace process ahead of the March 29-30, 2026, national convention being championed by the bloc led by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The bloc headed by Tanimu Turaki (SAN) and supported by the party governors confirmed on Wednesday that a fresh reconciliation process aimed at uniting aggrieved factions within the party had commenced.

2. A Federal High Court has issued an order for the final forfeiture of $13million claimed by Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd, a firm associated with businesswoman Aisha Achimugu. In a ruling on Wednesday, Justice Emeka Nwite granted a motion by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for final forfeiture of the money to the Federal Government.

3. No fewer than 11 soldiers and a police officer have reportedly been killed in an ambush by gunmen in the Giro Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The attack occurred on Tuesday night when security operatives, believed to have been operating in the area for some time, traced the gunmen to a construction company yard.

4. Three people have been killed in a violent clash in the Mararaba Gurku community, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. The incident occurred around 9 a.m. on Wednesday in the Aso A area and reportedly began as a dispute between a vigilante and a herder.

5. Several brick workers are feared dead after a sand pit used for brick-making collapsed at Ridawa village, Ghari Local Government Area of Kano State, on Wednesday. The incident occurred while labourers were digging a deep excavation site for brick production.

6. Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Joash O. Amupitan, has identified misinformation, distrust in the electoral process, and low civic awareness as major drivers of voter apathy among young Nigerians. He stated this on Wednesday at the unveiling of a revised National Voter Education Manual targeted at young Nigerians, organized by Kimpact Development Initiative in Abuja.

7. The Naira on Wednesday depreciated to N1,410 per dollar in the parallel market, from N1,405 per dollar on Tuesday. Likewise, the naira depreciated to N1,391 per dollar in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market, NFEM.

8. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of unsafe and substandard products in Nigerian markets, warning that this trend is eroding consumer trust and undermining the country’s economic integrity. The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, raised the alarm on Wednesday in Abuja during the commemoration of World Consumer Rights Day 2026 and the 9th National Consumers Contest Awards.

9. No fewer than five members of the same family have lost their lives in a tragic road accident along the Damaturu–Maiduguri highway in Yobe State. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, involved residents of Potiskum Local Government Area and has thrown the community into mourning.

10. The Akure Division of the Ondo State High Court has sentenced a 21-year-old houseboy, Emmanuel Akpan, to death by hanging for killing his employer, Febisola Caroline Adedayo. The trial judge, Rotimi Olamide, delivered the judgment on Wednesday in a case marked AK/57C/2022.

Nigerian Newspapers: 10 things you need to know Thursday morning

Youths key to Nigeria’s democratic progress – INEC chairman

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has stressed that young Nigerians are central to the nation’s democratic growth.

The commission’s chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, made the statement in Abuja during the launch of the 2026 Voter Education Manual and its youth-friendly version, aimed at boosting civic participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Prof. Amupitan emphasized “that with youths forming a significant part of registered voters, their active involvement in elections and civic activities is crucial for building a credible and inclusive democratic system”.

He added that INEC has adapted voter education tools to reach more young people through digital platforms and visual media, ensuring that their engagement strengthens voter turnout and sustains democratic gains.

The call from INEC comes as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify, with a strong focus on inclusive participation and the consolidation of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Youths key to Nigeria’s democratic progress – INEC chairman