Olu of Iwaya-Yaba Pledges Royal Support for ATPN's Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Lagos, Nigeria — His Royal Majesty, Oba Suleiman Owolabi Ogun-Oloko (Adeoriokin II), the Olu of Iwaya-Yaba Kingdom, has thrown his royal weight behind the forthcoming Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026, following a courtesy visit by the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Lagos Chapter, to his palace on Thursday.

The monarch made the pledge during the Lagos ATPN delegation's visit, confirming that the Olu has agreed to serve as Royal Father of the Day at the two-day tourism and sports event.

The palace visit was also aimed at extending the invitation to Her Royal Highness, Olori Rebecca Oloko, Queen of Iwaya-Yaba Kingdom, Yaba, Lagos State, who is expected to serve alongside her husband as Royal Mother of the Day for the fiesta. The Queen, however, was unavailable to receive the delegation in person, as she was away on vacation at the time of the visit — an arrangement she had reportedly made ahead of schedule.

Speaking on behalf of the ATPN delegation, Mr. Alaketu Abiodun, who led the team to the palace, explained that despite the Queen's absence, "she has assured that she would support us".

The Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026 is scheduled to hold on November 26 and 27, 2026, at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos State, bringing together stakeholders in sports, tourism, and culture for a two-day celebration expected to draw participants from across the state and beyond.

"Responding to the invitation through his Personal Aide, Hon. Prince Kareem Oloko, the Olu of Iwaya-Yaba formally acknowledged the honour and gave his assurance of full royal support for the event," Alaketu said.

In appreciation of the monarch's warm reception, the ATPN Lagos State Chapter and members of the Central Working Committee presented a token souvenir to the Kabiyesi, who received the gift warmly. "I would put this to use immediately," the royal father said, as he embraced the gesture on the spot.

With royal endorsement now secured, organisers of the Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026 say the event is shaping up to be a major highlight on Lagos State's sports tourism calendar this November.

Nigerian Troops Deal Fresh Blow to ISWAP, Boko Haram as Operation Hadin Kai Records Strong August Gains

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Nigerian security forces under Operation Hadin Kai have ramped up pressure on Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram fighters across the North-East, closing out August 2026 with a string of decisive battlefield results.

Throughout the month, sustained ground assaults and air strikes combined to weaken the insurgents' grip on the region, marking one of the more productive stretches of the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign.

Figures show that troops eliminated 152 fighters, captured 142 suspects, and persuaded 219 more to lay down their arms and surrender during the period a clear sign that the military's multi-pronged strategy is squeezing the terrorist groups' ability to operate freely in the theatre.

Beyond direct combat, the campaign focused heavily on cutting off the insurgents' supply lines and freedom of movement. 

Troops carried out ten air interdiction missions and defused nine improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that had been planted to target soldiers and civilians alike. Clearing these devices has been especially important for keeping key roads and travel corridors safe for both military convoys and everyday commuters.

The operations also yielded a substantial haul of weapons and equipment. Security forces seized 58 firearms and explosive items among them AK-47 and AK-49 rifles, homemade guns, a hand grenade, and a rocket-propelled grenade along with 1,184 rounds of ammunition. Additional recoveries included 16 vehicles and mobility equipment, 44 mobile phones, a video camcorder, and close to N1.8 million in cash, all of which investigators say will help track down terrorist financiers and logistics networks.

Analysts note that the mass surrender of 219 insurgents carries strategic weight that goes beyond the numbers. Each defector not only shrinks the fighting strength of these groups but also becomes a potential source of intelligence on how the organizations are structured, how they move, and how they resupply.

Military officials say the growing pressure is steadily eroding the insurgents' capacity to mount conventional attacks, forcing many fighters into increasingly precarious conditions. The broader goal of the offensive, they add, is to pave the way for displaced families to return home, reopen roads that have long been cut off, and revive economic and social life across communities devastated by years of conflict.

Clearing IEDs remains a top priority in this effort, given the ongoing danger these hidden devices pose to farmers, traders, and travelers who rely on rural roads for their livelihoods.

Community leaders and senior military commanders have praised the troops for their sacrifice and determination in pushing back the insurgency. 

As Operation Hadin Kai moves into its next phase, the August results underline a consistent strategy: dismantle terrorist supply chains, weaken their combat capacity, and encourage more fighters to walk away from the conflict all in service of the long-term goal of freeing the North-East from the threat of ISWAP and Boko Haram for good.

ACPN Unveils CPACPI Blueprint at FIP World Congress in Montreal

 By: Manoah Kikekon

 

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has taken its groundbreaking reform of community pharmacy practice to the international arena, showcasing the Community Pharmacists Assessment and Career Progression Institute (CPACPI) framework at the 84th International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Montreal, Canada.

The presentation represents a major milestone in ACPN’s purposeful leadership initiative to transform professional development, eliminate historic career stagnation, and cement community pharmacists as frontline pillars of primary healthcare delivery. 

Introduced initially in Nigeria in 2025 as a structured platform for competency-based career advancement, the framework took center stage globally during the congress held from August 30 to September 2, 2026, under the theme “One Health, One Pharmacy – Bridging science, practice, and education”.

Delivering the landmark presentation on behalf of the association, ACPN National Chairman Pharm. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh highlighted that the framework was built to tackle real-world operational strains, regulatory hurdles, and financial constraints facing modern practitioners. 

Grounded in a comprehensive study of 182 Nigerian community pharmacists conducted in collaboration with researchers from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu the presentation addressed core systemic challenges, including heavy workloads and the high cost of continuous professional development.

“Our mission through CPACPI is not merely to create an academic milestone, but to build a resilient, sustainable workforce capable of delivering world-class primary healthcare,” Pharm. Ezeh stated during the global address.

To resolve these barriers, the ACPN leadership outlined targeted solutions embedded within the CPACPI blueprint, including tiered subsidized professional development grants for younger pharmacists and flexible, self-paced digital learning modules designed to prevent disruption to patient care. 

Furthermore, the association strongly advocated for intensified multi-agency enforcement to crack down on illegal medicine outlets and unaccredited vendors that threaten public safety.

At the core of the CPACPI framework is a transparent, merit-based, five-band career progression structure designed to eliminate traditional career ceilings in community practice. 

The hierarchy maps out clear professional growth from entry-level practice to advanced consultancy: Band 1: Community Pharmacist, Band 2: Senior Community Pharmacist, Band 3: Community Pharmacy Specialist, Band 4: Community Pharmacy Senior Specialist, Band 5: Community Pharmacy Consultant

Advancement through these tiers relies heavily on measurable clinical competencies, mentorship, digital health integration, and continuous quality improvement. Beyond individual career growth, ACPN is pushing for policy changes that formally designate qualified community pharmacies as private-sector primary healthcare facilities integrated into the national health insurance framework.

“There is a pressing need for government authorities, policy-makers, and national health authorities to identify and designate qualified community pharmacies as official primary healthcare facility providers in the private sector,” Ezeh emphasized.

The positive reception of the CPACPI model in Montreal highlights how innovative workforce solutions originating from developing nations can offer scalable lessons for healthcare systems worldwide. By turning domestic challenges into structural blueprints, Nigeria is actively redefining the future scope of community pharmacy.

Concluding his remarks on the path forward, Pharm. Ezeh noted that long-term success relies heavily on bridging design and execution through robust stakeholder cooperation.

“The long-term success of the CPACPI framework rests on our collective ability to bridge the gap between policy design and real-world execution,” he noted. 

Prince Olu Kosoko Unveils Adùn Resorts to Boost Eco-Tourism in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Prince Olu Kosoko, son of the monarch of Iworo Kingdom in Badagry, HRM Oba (Dr.) Oladele Friday Kosoko (Ogundeyi II), has officially announced the launch of Adùn Resorts. The eco-friendly tourism project is designed to seamlessly integrate nature, local culture, agriculture, and wellness along the coastal historic city.

Disclosing the milestone, Prince Kosoko reflected on the evolution of the project, noting that patience and divine timing were instrumental to its realization. He shared that the vision first took root in 2021 under the initial working title of Dadi Resorts, spanning a 15-acre plot on Dadi Island, Iworo.

“One thing this journey of life has taught me is that there is a time and season for everything. God’s timing is always perfect,” Prince Kosoko stated. “My journey with what would become @visitadun actually started in 2021... We secured 15 acres at Dadi Island, Iworo, Badagry and everything looked ready, but when it was time to begin, the timing wasn’t just right. Looking back now, I am grateful that it didn't happen then.”

A New Chapter for Badagry Tourism

Fast-forwarding to the present, the project has transitioned to a prime 10-acre site at Dadi Louis, Iworo, featuring a scenic combination of lagoon front and beachfront views. According to the visionary developer, construction is now moving full steam ahead with distinct architectural elements that showcase authentic African craftsmanship.

“Fast forward to 2026, by God’s grace, we secured 10 acres at Dadi Louis, Iworo, Badagry a more beautiful location with both lagoon front and beachfront. We are building Adùn Resorts an African eco-resort with bamboo architecture where nature, culture, agriculture, and wellness can connect,” he explained.

He added that visible markers of progress are already on ground, noting, “Today, we are finally building, step by step. Our branded boat has arrived, our bamboo structures are taking shape, and that dream from 2021 is becoming reality.”

What to Expect at Adùn Resorts

As part of the rollout, the resort is preparing to debut its flagship lifestyle offering, Adùn Escape. Billed as an immersive day-cation experience, the package will feature wellness therapy, professional massage sessions, nature trails, local culinary delights, and dedicated spaces for relaxation.

Prince Kosoko called on tourists, travelers, and culture enthusiasts to watch out for ticket releases and prepare for a fresh perspective on leisure in Badagry.

“Our first experience, ADUN ESCAPE, is coming soon a beautiful day of wellness, massage, nature, food, relaxation and connection so watch out and get your ticket and get ready to experience Badagry differently as we write a new chapter,” he enthused.

CEOAFRICA Boss Prince Cletus Ilobanafor Bags Peace & Enterprise Ambassadorial Award in Abuja

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CEOAFRICA and Initiator of the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, has been conferred with the prestigious Peace & Enterprise Ambassadorial Award by the Inter-Religious Youth Affairs for Peace and Unity (IRYAPU).

Held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, the high-profile ceremony drew an array of business tycoons, civil society representatives, youth advocates, and national leaders to celebrate individuals championing transformative societal impact. According to the organizing body, the honor directly recognizes Ilobanafor's relentless contributions to youth empowerment, job creation, public health advocacy, peacebuilding, and sustainable nation-building.

Shedding light on the criteria for the selection, IRYAPU National Coordinator Amb. Muhammad Taofeeq explained that the award is strictly reserved for leaders whose work demonstrates measurable societal value, independent vision, and alignment with global development goals, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Taofeeq emphasized that the recognition was granted based on substantive, documented initiatives rather than ceremonial affiliations.

Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited and sponsor of the Geneith Health Competition, lauded Ilobanafor's visionary leadership. Highlighting his dedication to building platforms for young Africans, Umenwa urged Nigerian youths to step forward and maximize opportunities like the GHC by serving as active malaria ambassadors.

Echoing these sentiments, GHC National Coordinator Pharm. Blessing Ghensel described the media executive as “a gift to humanity” for his creativity and commitment to fostering peace, youth development, and positive social values.

In his acceptance speech, Prince Ilobanafor expressed profound gratitude to IRYAPU, viewing the accolade as a renewed call to service. He underlined the critical intersection between economic prosperity and peace, noting that sustainable growth cannot take root in an atmosphere dominated by conflict and instability.

“I will continue to use my voice to impact cultural advocacy, peace, and empower the next generation globally,” Ilobanafor stated. “These recognitions encourage me to do more, to tell the right stories, and to spread love through impactful initiatives.”

Warning against the manipulation of vulnerable youths through ethnic and religious fault lines, he called for cross-faith cooperation and collective action. He also drew attention to urgent public health challenges, urging young Nigerians to spearhead the national campaign against malaria through the Geneith Health Competition platform.

“I dedicate this recognition to every young leader, innovator, and entrepreneur striving for a better tomorrow, especially those getting set to become malaria ambassadors through the Geneith Health Competition. Together, we can build a Nigeria where peace, good health and opportunity thrive for all,” he concluded.

How Badagry Police Station Rejects a Thief on Assumptions of Madness

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Nigeria Police and Ugo the Theif 

The Badagry Police Station has rejected a notorious Theif who was identified as Ugo after officers concluded he looked like a mad person and refused to attend to the case.

Ugo, who claimed to work as a scavenger, allegedly jumped the fence into a compound at Marina, Badagry, Lagos State, on Tuesday and made away with various valuables.

Recounting the incident, Mrs Juliana narrated: “I was lying down in the room at about 1:00 p.m. At some point, I was feeling uncomfortable; by the time I opened my eyes, I saw someone kneeling down beside my purse. 

When he saw that I was awake, he said, ‘Madam, please don't shout.’ Immediately I shouted. He ran outside and jumped the fence, which was how he passed to enter the premises. The people around who saw him jumping the fence apprehended him and handed him over to the officers at the Badagry Correctional Centre (Prison).

“That was when I realised he had already stolen ₦10,000 from my purse, but we couldn't find the money with him; all we saw was two fish in his pocket. Before now, we realised that things had been missing, but we never believed a thief could enter here.

“The most painful part is that he took my money, and the police were telling me he is a mad person. Someone who was pleading that I shouldn't shout how could such a person be a mad person? What if he had raped or attacked me while I was sleeping? That is how they would have just let him go.”

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Badagry Police Station, CSP Jude Unwokolo, reportedly told our reporter that “since the police officers have studied his look and presumed him to be a mad person, there's nothing they can do. They don't have to interrogate him before knowing he is mad, and they can't work with the information of the prison officers.”

When the officer at the counter was called upon, she claimed the Investigating Police Officers (IPOs) present concluded the suspect was a mad person immediately they saw him, which was why they rejected him.

However, a prison officer who pleaded anonymity expressed frustration over the situation. “I am disappointed in these police officers at the counter. Despite seeing that I was the one who brought the criminal, they could not even attend to me before shouting at me to return him because he looks like a mad person.

“He is someone I interrogated, and he was communicating fluently. He even told me he is from Badagry, that he is an Igbo man, and that he is a scavenger. The police have done this simply because they won't get money from him.”

Jury Finds Duane Davis Guilty in Murder of Tupac Shakur

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Duane Davis and Tupac Shakur 

A jury has convicted Duane "Keffe D" Davis for the 1996 drive-by shooting that killed legendary rapper Tupac Shakur in Las Vegas, bringing a momentous conclusion to a three-decade-old case.

Following a brief deliberation lasting under three hours, the panel found the 63-year-old guilty of murder involving a deadly weapon committed with gang-related intent. He now faces a potential life sentence. Davis remained quiet, standing alongside his legal counsel as the decision was delivered before returning to his seat. Clark County District Court Judge Carli Kierny scheduled his sentencing hearing for October 13.

The Prosecution’s Case: The "Shot Caller"

Although state prosecutors acknowledged that Davis was not the individual who pulled the trigger during the September 7, 1996, shooting near the Las Vegas Strip pointing instead toward his nephew, Orlando "Baby Lane" Anderson, or another rear-seat passenger they maintained he orchestrated the attack. Investigators identified Davis, a self-admitted former leader of a prominent Los Angeles street gang, as the mastermind who supplied the weapon.

During closing arguments, prosecutor Binu Palal emphasized that beyond physical clues, the state's case was built on an overwhelming mountain of circumstantial evidence and consistent witness testimony. Palal highlighted that Davis had spent nearly two decades publicly detailing his involvement through media interviews, police statements, and his own published autobiography.

“For nearly 18 years, Duane Davis has told the police, television, books, YouTube interviewers anybody that will listen, he has told he is responsible for the murder of Tupac Shakur. Tell him you hear him find him guilty,” Palal urged the jury.

The Defense: Dismissing the Confessions

Conversely, defense attorney Michael Sanft pushed back against the state's reliance on his client's past statements, arguing that decades after the tragedy, investigators lacked tangible proof and were merely leaning on remarks that held no real legal weight.

Sanft questioned the validity of treating past public claims as literal truth, challenging the jury to consider why the trial was taking place thirty years later if the purported confessions were genuine. He urged panel members to acquit his client, maintaining that a not-guilty verdict was the only logical conclusion supported by the lack of physical validation.