Time, Opportunity, Tenacity and Positioning: The Story of Princess Damilola Sonayon James, DSJ

By Prince Tunji Ogabi

Damilola Sonayon-James and Tunji Ogabi 

In every generation, certain journeys remind us that success is rarely the product of a single factor; rather, it is the convergence of time, opportunity, tenacity and positioning working in perfect harmony.

History teaches us this. Leaders emerge not merely by birth, but at the intersection of preparation and circumstance. Some arrive at the right time. Others recognise opportunities that most miss. Some refuse to quit, while others position themselves precisely where opportunity can find them.

The journey of Princess Damilola Sonayon James, DSJ, is one such story.

As the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations wound down and the world turned its attention to the UEFA Champions League final, a different kind of excitement stirred in Badagry. By Sunday morning, whispers had turned into widespread jubilation: the APC Lagos State chapter had named Princess Damilola Sonayon James as the running mate to Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat in the forthcoming gubernatorial election.

For many, it was a moment of pure celebration. For others, it was the definitive result of years of service, persistence and strategic engagement. Her emergence affirms a timeless truth: when preparation meets opportunity, extraordinary outcomes follow.

 Time

 'To everything there is a season.'

Timing is often the silent force behind significant political shifts. Leaders emerge when their unique qualifications align precisely with the demands of the moment.

The SMA GOLD phenomenon during the APC primaries achieved something rare: it placed Badagry’s aspirations squarely at the centre of Lagos politics. Though the ticket was not won, the movement made Badagry’s voice unavoidable. It created vital visibility and forced widespread attention. Since the era of HRM Aholu Claudius Dosa Akran, few developments have projected Badagry’s interests with such intensity.

Without that pivotal moment, would a Badagry deputy governorship have gained traction? Perhaps, but certainly not with the same momentum. As the local saying goes: 'Lori SMA GOLD; Baba gba ope wa.'

The current political climate demanded leadership that embodies competence, loyalty, youth, innovation and inclusiveness. It is hard to imagine a more fitting time for DSJ’s emergence. Time is not just about chronology; it is about readiness meeting a favourable season.

Opportunity

Opportunities rarely arrive with fanfare. More often than not, they come disguised as routine meetings, taxing assignments or casual conversations.

Exceptional individuals recognise and maximise these moments. Nelson Mandela turned a prison cell into a masterclass in preparation; similarly, DSJ treats every platform as a golden chance to demonstrate leadership.

While I do not know her extensively, one distinct trait stood out during our few encounters: she never misses an opportunity to make her presence felt.

At a state-wide seminar for supervisors drawing attendees from 57 LGAs and LCDAs, hundreds filled the hall. While many came merely to observe, she did not. She actively moved through the room, introducing herself, building networks, exchanging ideas and establishing rapport. When called upon to speak, she spoke eloquently. When discussions opened, she contributed meaningfully. Wherever a connection could be forged, she made it.

While many sit idly waiting for opportunity, DSJ positions herself where opportunity simply cannot ignore her.

Tenacity

Every profound success story contains an unseen chapter dominated by setbacks. Tenacity alone decides whether the story ends there or moves forward.

Abraham Lincoln lost numerous elections before securing the presidency; his global legacy was built entirely on a stubborn refusal to quit.

DSJ served as a supervisor in the Badagry West LCDA, quickly earning a reputation for absolute commitment. She later contested for the position of Executive Chairman against established political heavyweights. Though she did not secure the ticket at the time, that disappointment did not mark the end of her journey. For her, it was merely a plot twist.

She stayed deeply engaged, continuing to serve, aspire and contribute to the party framework. Consistent persistence inevitably attracts notice, and political leaders value reliability.

In due course, she emerged as a Supervisor-designate and the APC Deputy State Woman Leader for Lagos State. That steady progression was by no means accidental. It was the direct reward for staying visible and proactive long after disappointment might have justified a retreat. Success is a leased asset, and tenacity is the daily rent required to maintain it.

Positioning

If time creates the season, opportunity opens the door and tenacity keeps you moving, it is strategic positioning that ensures you are standing at the threshold when the door finally swings open.

True positioning is not political manipulation. It is the deliberate accumulation of preparation, credibility and genuine relationship-building. It ensures your name naturally enters the room when critical conversations occur.

Lee Kuan Yew successfully positioned Singapore, transforming it from a modest port city into a global powerhouse through sheer clarity of vision.

In her role as the APC Deputy State Woman Leader, DSJ occupied a strategic platform that extended far beyond her immediate constituency. She effectively represented youth, women, grassroots politicians and a rising generation of modern leaders. She remained active, visible, connected and engaged.

Concurrently, Badagry became central to the broader Lagos political discourse. The convergence was clear: a politically visible Badagry, a highly visible DSJ, a structural demand for inclusivity, an administrative search for balance, and a favourable political season.

Her emergence, therefore, is less of a surprise and more of an inevitability. Positioning means being fully prepared when favour arrives.

The Take-Home Message

DSJ’s story is larger than a single individual. It serves as an enduring lesson for young leaders, public servants and anyone seeking a path in public service: success is rarely down to luck alone.

Time: creates the season.

Opportunity: opens the door.

Tenacity: keeps you moving forward.

Positioning: ensures you are ready to step through.

Congratulations to Princess Damilola Sonayon James, DSJ. I wish you, our principal Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, and all APC candidates wisdom, strength and outstanding success in the campaign ahead.

May your campaign be purposeful, your service deeply impactful, and your victory earned through the shared confidence of the people be truly resounding.

God bless the Badagry Federation.

 God bless Lagos State.

 God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Prince Tunji Ogabi is a Public Servant, Community Development Advocate, and APC Stakeholder, Lagos State.

Why Hon. Onilude Cannot Win the Election: By Daniel Dovoeke

 By: Daniel Dovoeke 

Daniel Dovoeke and Hon. Olusegun Onilude 

As everyone knows, Hon. Onilude was the immediate past Chairman of Badagry Local Government. In my view, he abandoned Badagry and instead played politics with the town and its future. As a chairman who governed for eight years, several communities and wards within Badagry did not witness any meaningful infrastructural development under his administration.

What he appeared to prioritize were markets, where many original market women were allegedly displaced through the sale of shops at prices beyond their reach and affordability.

He allegedly awarded the development of markets within the LGA to developers believed to be his associates. He was also alleged to have built a standard school outside Badagry LGA while local schools that desperately needed government intervention were left neglected.

He was nowhere to be found when it came to public healthcare. It was under his administration that a snake was reportedly found at Pota PHC, an incident that drew national media attention and placed Badagry in the spotlight for the wrong reasons.

In my opinion, his administration set Badagry back and prevented the local government from competing favourably with others. The only significant project often associated with his tenure is what he described as a "legacy building" the local government administrative complex.

I find it surprising that people applaud him for constructing an administrative building when many primary schools witnessed little or no significant government intervention over the last decade, except for the generous contributions of an individual philanthropy, who consistently visited schools to donate chairs, benches, school bags, uniforms, and other educational materials.

The Current Political Situation

The interesting part of this story is the phase in which we currently find ourselves. Hon. Sesi Whingan has, in my opinion, been unjustly removed through a process many consider neither free nor fair, resulting in the emergence of Hon. Onilude someone who held executive power and controlled a substantial budget for eight years without producing what many would consider tangible results.

Meanwhile, Hon. Sesi, a relatively young legislator whose effectiveness largely depends on his ability to lobby and influence the executive arm of government, has spent barely three years in office. Though not without flaws, a second term could have strengthened his capacity to build on his previous efforts and relationships for the benefit of Badagry.

Hon. Sesi's Political Mistakes

To be fair, Hon. Sesi also made some mistakes.

We will recall that he successfully stopped Hon. Hunpe's second-term bid with broad grassroots support. However, after winning his election, he failed to sincerely reconcile with Hon. Hunpe.

He further made what I consider a political miscalculation by refusing to endorse Hon. Hunpe, who did not pose a direct threat to his own second-term ambition. While it may have been politically difficult for him to support Hon. Avoseh, supporting Hon. Hassan who did not command the same political weight and support as the two former legislators  proved to be a costly error.

This decision further widened the rift between him and Hon. Hunpe.

On the other hand, Hon. Onilude capitalized on this political opportunity by giving Hon. Hunpe his full support and helping him secure victory. This was a significant political gain for Hon. Onilude, considering the influential role local government chairmen play during party primaries and electioneering activities.

The Real Twist

This is where the story becomes more interesting.

Hon. Sesi was not removed simply because he lost outright. Rather, several underlying political factors appear to have contributed to his defeat.

One of his close allies had earlier initiated allegations of corruption against the former chairman. Hon. Sesi neither publicly distanced himself from nor openly condemned those actions. Whether right or wrong, the campaign against alleged corruption resonated with many who believe that public resources must be protected and properly accounted for.

Naturally, this created political discomfort for those who felt directly affected.

His challenges were further compounded by some of his aides, who should have focused more on promoting their candidate rather than attacking critics. Critics often provide opportunities for engagement and logical debate, yet many dissenting voices were treated as enemies.

I still do not understand why some of those individuals were not replaced.

Although Badagry Today made considerable efforts to manage public perception and carry out damage control, some of his supporters continued to create avoidable controversies that undermined those efforts.

He campaigned both online and offline, but it ultimately proved insufficient. All these factors, together with several others, contributed to the coalition that eventually worked against him.

Had he lost through a process widely accepted as free and fair, the outcome might have been easier to accept. However, many people remain uncomfortable with the circumstances surrounding his removal.

Why I Oppose Hon. Onilude's Emergence

In my opinion, Hon. Onilude is not primarily interested in representing Badagry. Rather, he appears more interested in joining the ranks of Abuja's political elite.

Hon. Hunpe's support for him is not necessarily because he believes Hon. Onilude would represent Badagry better than Hon. Sesi. Instead, many observers see it as a case of political loyalty and reciprocity.

Hon. Onilude stood by Hon. Hunpe when he needed support, and it is understandable that Hon. Hunpe would return that gesture.

However, the critical question remains: on whose behalf is that gesture being returned?

The future of Badagry should not become a reward in a political exchange.

At this critical point in our history, we need active and effective representation, not political compensation. We need someone who genuinely understands our struggles. We need a strong voice in national politics. We need someone who can advance our collective aspirations and priorities.

We need a representative who listens to the people and places public interest above personal enrichment and the interests of political associates.

After eight years as chairman, what more does Hon. Onilude seek without being able to point to transformative achievements that significantly changed the fortunes of Badagry?

Our town hall was renovated and subsequently commercialized. Questions remain about who benefits from the substantial fees reportedly charged for the use of what should be a public facility.

Why should every public asset become a target for privatization?

Markets that once provided opportunities for women such as Iya Oniru, Iya Alata, and Iya Elepo to support their families and educate their children have allegedly been transferred into the hands of wealthy businessmen with the financial capacity to purchase spaces worth millions of naira.

Conclusion

For these reasons, I cannot support a process that produces Hon. Onilude as the preferred candidate.

Badagry deserves active representation, not a retirement plan for any politician seeking relevance in Abuja.

We will continue to evaluate all available alternatives, and we will ultimately support the candidate we believe offers the best hope for Badagry's future.

Thank you.

I remain a concerned Badagrian.

Dovoeke Daniel Semeton 

WASPEN to Host 5th Annua Conference in Asaba as it Target Ending Malnutrition in Hospitals

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ASABA, NIGERIA — The West African Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN) has officially announced its 5th Annual Clinical Nutrition Conference. Scheduled to take place from June 22nd to 25th, 2026, at the Federal Medical Centre in Asaba, Delta State, the summit aims to confront the "silent epidemic" of hospital-based malnutrition that continues to stall healthcare progress in the region.

The announcement was made during a virtual press conference held on Monday, June 1, 2026, by Dr. Teresa Isichei Pounds, the Founder and President of WASPEN. Addressing journalists and healthcare stakeholders, Dr. Pounds highlighted that while medical technology has advanced, the fundamental role of nutrition in clinical recovery remains dangerously overlooked.

The theme for the 2026 summit is "Sustainable Clinical Nutrition Services: Ensuring Access, Safety, and Collaboration.” This focus arrives at a critical time; statistics show that between 30% and 45% of patients in Nigerian tertiary hospitals are malnourished upon admission—a figure that often worsens during their stay due to a lack of specialized nutrition teams.

"Malnutrition remains one of the most under-recognized threats to patient safety and recovery," Dr. Pounds disclosed during the briefing. "It affects patients across all stages of life—from premature newborns in neonatal units to adults living with chronic diseases like cancer and HIV. Evidence shows that hospital malnutrition is associated with longer stays, increased infections, and higher mortality rates. Yet, nutrition care is still not consistently integrated into routine clinical practice."*

The conference will focus on three urgent pillars designed to bridge the gap in Nigerian healthcare: Universal Access: Ensuring nutrition support is available regardless of a patient's economic status or geographic location.

Patient Safety: Standardizing protocols to ensure interventions are guided by rigorous evidence and multidisciplinary oversight.

Regional Collaboration: Uniting government agencies, researchers, and international partners to create a coordinated front against malnutrition.

"Together, we can strengthen nutrition care systems and improve early identification and treatment," Dr. Pounds added. "We envision a region where nutrition is recognized as a human right and where every patient has access to safe, equitable care."

Founded in 2019, WASPEN has grown from a visionary concept into a robust interdisciplinary movement. The society has already established Nutrition Support Steering Committees in several of Nigeria's leading institutions, including the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and the National Hospital Abuja. These committees have been instrumental in implementing nutrition screening and fostering collaboration between physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and dietitians.

As the society prepares for its fifth gathering in Asaba, the goal remains clear: moving clinical nutrition from the sidelines to the center of the patient’s chart. By bringing together the brightest minds in the field, WASPEN hopes to turn the tide on readmission rates and provide a roadmap for sustainable, nutrition-focused healthcare delivery throughout West Africa.

Badagry Chairman Babatunde Hunpe Demands LAWMA Deploy More PSP Operators to Curb Indiscriminate Dumping

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Babatunde Hunpe In the middle, Mrs. Oluwakemi Avoseh by the right 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a decisive move to protect public health and restore environmental sanity, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, has called on the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Ministry of the Environment to urgently deploy more Private Sector Participation (PSP) waste operators to the area.

The Chairman made this appeal on Saturday during an extensive environmental sanitation monitoring exercise carried out across multiple communities within the local government area. Hunpe, who led council officials to inspect major residential and commercial hubs, expressed concern over the persistent challenge of illegal refuse heaps fouling public spaces.

Addressing journalists during the inspection tour, Hon. Hunpe emphasized that while the local government maintains a fleet of smaller utility trucks for internal administrative use, it cannot legally or logistically take over the core municipal responsibilities assigned to authorized waste managers. Instead, he noted that the state must build up the capacity of its accredited handlers.

“We have discussed with the Ministry of Environment; they have to increase the number of their PSP vehicles here because it will not be nice to take up their job from them," Hunpe explained. "Our appeal to the Ministry of Environment or LAWMA is to increase the number of PSPs we have in this Local Government.”

The Chairman strongly warned residents against the hazardous practice of open refuse burning, pointing out that utilizing structured collection networks is the only sustainable path to keeping Badagry clean.

“The best way is not to burn the waste, but to make sure they patronize the PSP vehicles in their area," Hunpe added. "On our own end as a government, we also have our small trucks, but we don't go to the streets to pick up waste. We only stay within our jurisdiction because we don't want to disrupt the work of the PSPs.”

Mrs. Oluwakemi Avoseh the Chairman's position, the Council Manager of Badagry Local Government, pointed out that the current volume of waste infrastructure allocated to the area is severely inadequate. She warned that structural adjustments must happen swiftly to avert a catastrophic public health crisis.

Aboseh stressed that community health cannot wait for bi-weekly or monthly government clean-up cycles:

“We need more PSPs in Badagry and we want them to work effectively, as the ones we have now are not working optimally," Aboseh stated. "We all know that an uncleanliness epidemic is bound to happen if this continues, and that is what we don't want in Badagry. People don't have to wait till sanitation day before cleaning their environment; cleanliness should be a daily thing. You cannot live in a dirty environment and expect to thrive.”

The monitoring exercise received praise from local representatives, including Hon. Esther Sareaje, the Councilor representing Ward D. She admitted that compliance has been a major hurdle at the grassroots level but stated that the high-profile visit from the executive team serves as a vital wake-up call for local households.

“I appreciate this effort of the chairman coming to my ward; this is a challenge to me," the Councilor stated. "Before now, I have told my people to clean their environment but they wouldn't listen. Now, I have told them that they must be ready to face the legal consequences of their actions, because as we all know, cleanliness is next to godliness.”

With local authorities vowing to ramp up enforcement against environmental infractions, attention now shifts to LAWMA and the state ministry to see how quickly they can deploy the necessary logistical reinforcements to the Badagry axis.

Countdown to 2027: A Comprehensive Guide to Nigeria’s Presidential Candidates, Factions, and Realignment Alliances

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA, NIGERIA — As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) prepares for the highly anticipated general election scheduled for January 16, 2027, Nigeria’s political landscape is experiencing massive structural realignments. Out of the 22 registered political parties in the country, at least 10 have finalized their presidential primaries or declared their flagbearers as of late May 2026.

The current field exposes a highly fragmented opposition pitted against a consolidated ruling party, alongside a web of intense internal factions that could ultimately tip the scales of national power.

The Incumbent Frontrunner: All Progressives Congress (APC) — Bola Ahmed Tinubu

The incumbent president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has officially locked down the APC ticket for a second term. A seasoned master strategist, Tinubu served as the governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 and was the primary architect behind the merger that formed the APC in 2013, which propelled former President Muhammadu Buhari to victory in 2015. Backed by the complete machinery of state incumbency, Tinubu enters the 2027 cycle aiming to defend his economic policies and complete his administrative agenda.

Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) — Peter Obi

In one of the most stunning developments of the current pre-election cycle, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi officially defected from the Labour Party to secure the presidential ticket of the newly ascendant Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). To forge a formidable northern-southern electoral bridge, Obi has selected former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his vice-presidential running mate, bringing together the powerful "Obidient" and "Kwankwasiyya" grassroots movements under a single, unified banner.

Allied Peoples Movement (APM) — Seyi Makinde

The current popular Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has thrown his hat into the ring under a strategic joint platform involving a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM). This alliance platform positions Makinde as a major southern progressive alternative, focusing heavily on systemic institutional restructuring and people-centered socioeconomic reforms.

Inside the PDP and ADC Splits

Within the PDP, the battle lines remain drawn between regional power brokers. Senator Sandy Onor, a former federal lawmaker representing Cross River Central, carries the backing of the influential Nyesom Wike faction. Conversely, the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led wing made waves by declaring former President Goodluck Jonathan as their choice in absentia, though Jonathan himself has maintained a calculated public silence.

Meanwhile, the ADC faces its own existential dual identity. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emerged as the choice for a faction spearheaded by former Senate President David Mark. This marks Atiku's latest bid for the nation's top office after his previous outings in 2019 and 2023. He faces a challenge from Dumebi Kachikwu, the younger brother of former petroleum minister Ibe Kachikwu, who maintains control over an independent wing of the party.

Labour Party (LP) — Dr. Chibuzo Okereke

Following high-profile departures, the Labour Party has pivoted to a technocratic profile by fielding Dr. Chibuzo Okereke. A respected policy strategist, legislative consultant to the National Assembly, and academic at Miva Open University, Okereke’s campaign focuses heavily on structural institutional updates and public administration adjustments.

People’s Redemption Party (PRP) — Donald Duke

The PRP has brought back a familiar face to national prominence: Donald Duke, the charismatic former governor of Cross River State (1999–2007). Duke's platform leans heavily into his historic record of urban renewal, tourism acceleration, and agricultural investments during his time as governor.

African Action Congress (AAC) — Omoyele Sowore

Human rights activist, investigative journalist, and founder of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, returns to the ballot for a third consecutive time under the AAC banner. Sowore continues to advocate for a complete systemic overhaul, anti-corruption crackdowns, and a populist-socialist economic model.

Action Democratic Party (ADP) — Aliyu Bin Abbas

The ADP is fielding Aliyu Bin Abbas, a prominent youth mobilizer and former political aide to Atiku Abubakar. Abbas is positioning himself as a youthful alternative dedicated to disruptive national development and digital economy integration.

As the campaign trails heat up, the ultimate question remains: Can a splintered and multi-directional opposition successfully challenge the entrenched institutional machinery of the APC, or will these internal divisions hand President Tinubu a clear path to a second term?

Lagos Has Rejoin 998 Rescued Persons with Families, Enrolls 70 in Special Vocations: Mobolaji Ogunlende

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Mobolaji Ogunlende 

IKEJA, LAGOS — In a profound demonstration of social reform and human restoration, the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development has announced that 998 formerly destitute and mentally challenged persons have been successfully stabilized and reunited with their families.

The announcement, made by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, during the Year 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing at Alausa, Ikeja, highlighted the far-reaching impact of the state’s multi-tier rehabilitation networks. Marking seven years of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, the ministry laid bare its statistics, displaying a highly functioning social infrastructure aimed at transforming street-dependent individuals into productive citizens.

Restoring Dignity at Majidun and Owutu

Central to this sweeping humanitarian operation is the Rehabilitation Training Centre in Majidun, Ikorodu. The center caters specifically to beggars, destitutes, and mentally unstable individuals rescued from the urban sprawl of Lagos.

As of April 2026, the facility housed 1,295 active rehabilitees undergoing comprehensive therapy. Through the deliberate tracking efforts of the Ministry's Human Integration Unit, 998 individuals—including several foreign nationals from neighboring West African states like Ghana and Benin—were safely integrated back into their communities.

Concurrently, the Vocational Rehabilitation Centre for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Owutu has turned its focus toward long-term economic independence. The center currently has 70 trainees fully enrolled in specialized vocational tracks.

Addressing the media, Commissioner Mobolaji Ogunlende stressed the holistic mindset of the state’s intervention policies:

"Rehabilitation is not just about taking vulnerable people off the streets; it is about rebuilding their psychological foundation, equipping them with self-sustaining skills, and safely connecting them back to their loved ones so they never return to the margins of society."

Overhauling Substance Abuse Recovery at Isheri

The state’s social safety network extended massive reforms to the Rehabilitation and Vocational Training Centre in Isheri, which specializes in the care of men recovering from acute drug and substance abuse.

Boosted by aggressive structural renovations funded by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), the center’s bed capacity effectively doubled from 60 to 120. The structural upgrade integrated a clean industrial borehole, solar-powered grid systems, fitness spaces, and modern vocational workshops.

Key Performance Indices: Lagos State Rehabilitation Matrix

Majidun Centre, Ikorodu, Street Rescue & Human Integration, 1,072 new admissions; 998 successfully reunited with families globally.

Owutu PWD Vocational Hub, Disability Empowerment, 70 active trainees; launched fully funded advanced scholarships in cosmetology.

Isheri Recovery Facility, Substance Abuse Rehabilitation, 145 new intakes; 90 certified fit for discharge; capacity increased by 100%.

Triumphs Over Addiction: From Rehabilitation to Higher Education

The real-world success metrics coming out of the Isheri facility challenge historic stigmas associated with substance dependency. Over the last reporting cycle, the center witnessed unprecedented academic and professional milestones from individuals who were once completely written off by society.

Academic Excellence: Four recovering rehabilitees sat for and successfully passed the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (JAMB).

University Graduation: One notable rehabilitee successfully completed his studies while under care, graduating with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Physics from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), and is currently interning within the state ministry.

Corporate Integration: Another individual secured an active corporate role as a Personal Assistant to an airline CEO while finalizing his recovery program.

Peer Mentorship: Three fully discharged individuals were retained as temporary support staff within the facility, transforming their lived experiences into mentorship assets for new arrivals.

“Seeing a young man break free from severe drug addiction, sit for university exams, and graduate with a degree in Physics from a top institution proves that our methodologies are working,” Ogunlende added. “With start-up tools provided by COWLSO in barbing, tailoring, and digital repairs, we are turning historical burdens into absolute points of pride for their families.”

Amuwo Odofin 2027: George Olawande Secures Landslide Victory in NDC House of Reps Primaries

 By:  Manoah Kikekon 

NDC and George Olawande 

AMUWO ODOFIN, LAGOS — In a major political milestone ahead of the upcoming legislative polls, the lawmaker representing Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency, Hon. George Folarin Olawande, has emerged victorious in the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) House of Representatives Primary Election.

The keenly contested primary, which took place across designated centers on Friday, May 29, 2026, solidifies Olawande’s position as the party's official flagbearer. Party insiders point to his strong grassroots infrastructure and recent legislative track record as the decisive factors behind his dominant performance among voting delegates.

The primary election serves as a critical operational test for the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as it rapidly scales its political footprint across Lagos State. For Olawande, the overwhelming support from party faithful indicates a deep-seated satisfaction with his community-focused style of governance.

Following the formal collation of votes, constituency stakeholders released a joint statement celebrating the outcome as an authentic reflection of popular will:

"Emerging victorious in a keenly contested primary election is a clear demonstration of the confidence, trust, and overwhelming support he continues to enjoy among party faithful and stakeholders across the constituency."

Key Details of the NDC Primary Election

Flagbearer Candidate, Hon. George Folarin Olawande.

Federal Constituency, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos State

Political Platform, Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Primary Election Date, Friday, May 29, 2026.

Target Election Cycle, 2027 General Elections.

A Record of Impactful Grassroots Governance

Throughout his active tenure, Olawande has built a reputation centered on accessibility, humility, and structured constituency interventions. Supporters frequently cite his proactive approach to local infrastructure projects, education support, and youth empowerment as core values that resonated deeply with the choosing delegates.

The lawmaker's campaign team emphasized that the victory stands as validation for a leadership philosophy completely centered around human capital development:

"This remarkable victory is a testament to Hon. Olawande's outstanding leadership, dedication to public service, and unwavering commitment to the growth and development of Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency."

With the intra-party primary now officially concluded, the leadership of the NDC in Lagos is shifting its focus toward building a highly inclusive coalition. Party leaders are actively calling on former aspirants, party organs, and strategic voting blocks to close ranks to ensure success in the general elections.

Emphasizing the necessity of internal party cohesion, the leadership council concluded with a definitive call to action for all supporters:

"The primary election is now behind us, and the task ahead is to work collectively towards achieving an even greater victory at the polls. Together, we can build on this momentum and ensure that the voice of the people remains strong and well represented."

The formal presentation of the certificate of return is expected to take place at the NDC state secretariat in the coming days, paving the way for the inauguration of the general election campaign machinery.