Nigeria Customs Commission Classroom Project in Kirikiri

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken a significant leap beyond its traditional border security and revenue collection mandates to champion social reform. In a move that blends institutional duty with humanitarian spirit, the Service officially commissioned a modern four-classroom block at the Kirikiri Medium Correctional Centre in Lagos. This landmark project aims to transform the lives of inmates, turning a place of confinement into a hub for intellectual growth and future reintegration.

The commissioning ceremony, held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, was led by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi. The facility was birthed through the Customs Cares Initiative and executed by the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Command. 

By prioritizing education within the prison walls, the NCS is addressing one of the most critical pillars of successful rehabilitation: providing inmates with the tools to rebuild their lives upon release.

During his keynote address, CGC Adeniyi emphasized that the project is not merely a donation but a strategic alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He noted that the Service is committed to interventions that improve literacy, health, and access to basic amenities across the nation. 

Furthermore, he linked the project to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting that sustainable national development is impossible without investing in human capital, regardless of an individual's current legal status.

The success of the classroom block was credited to the vision of Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Joy Edeldouk, whose leadership at the KLT Command paved the way for the project’s completion. Adeniyi praised her dedication, noting that such initiatives reflect the evolving character of the Nigeria Customs Service as a people-focused organization. The ceremony also saw the presence of DC Bolaji Adigun, the Acting Customs Area Controller of KLT, who joined in celebrating this milestone for the command.

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) expressed immense gratitude for the intervention. Representing the Comptroller-General of Corrections, DCG Amos Kupan hailed the partnership as a blueprint for inter-agency collaboration. 

He remarked: “This facility is a major boost to our rehabilitation efforts. It provides a conducive environment for vocational and educational training, which are essential for reducing recidivism and ensuring that inmates return to society as productive citizens.”

The event concluded with a guided tour of the new facility, which stakeholders described as a "symbol of hope." By investing in the education of the incarcerated, the Nigeria Customs Service has sent a powerful message about human dignity and the possibility of second chances. 

As the classrooms prepare to welcome their first sets of students, the project stands as a testament to the impact that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can have when directed toward the most vulnerable sectors of society.

Ogu General Assembly Demands Urgent Intervention and Compensation for Displaced Makoko Residents

By: Manoah Kikekon 

OGA and Babajide Sanwo-Olu the Lagos State Governor 

The Ogu General Assembly (OGA) has officially called on the Lagos State Government to provide immediate relief and justice for the residents of Makoko following a massive demolition exercise by the Lagos State Government. 

The forced removals, which reportedly resulted in the destruction of hundreds of homes and the tragic loss of several lives, have sparked a humanitarian outcry. 

Speaking at a high-level stakeholders' engagement held on Tuesday at the National Assembly Complex in Alausa, Ikeja, OGA leadership emphasized that the state must move beyond site inspections and provide concrete solutions for those now sleeping in the open.

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The demand for government action follows a Monday visit by the House Committee on Public Petitions to the affected fishing community. OGA representatives returned to the Lagos State House of Assembly yesterday to stand in solidarity with the people of Makoko during a follow-up meeting. 

The Assembly expressed deep gratitude to its **four-member delegation led by Convener Prof. Jendele Hungbo, Prof. Senayon Olaoluwa, Mr. Sewedo Nupowaku, and Chief Pentho Francis for their steadfast advocacy in the face of this crisis.

During the session, Prof. Jendele Hungbo challenged the government to present a transparent roadmap for the survivors. "Some people have been displaced; what is the government’s plan for their immediate accommodation?" Hungbo questioned. 

He further pressed for a clear compensation plan for the families of those who lost their lives during the exercise. Hungbo noted that any future dialogue must be rooted in empathy, as the demolition has not only stripped residents of their shelter but has effectively crippled their economic survival in the water-dependent fishing community.

As the situation in Makoko remains dire, the Ogu General Assembly is insisting on immediate recompense to help the displaced population regain their livelihoods. 

With their primary means of income the water now inaccessible or disrupted by the state's actions, the OGA maintains that the government has a moral and legal obligation to provide a safety net. 

The group remains committed to monitoring the state’s response to ensure that the vulnerable residents of Makoko are not forgotten in the name of urban redevelopment.

Protesters Storm National Assembly with Mattresses Over Electoral Act Spat

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Protesters with bed and pillow

ABUJA, NIGERIA — The gates of the National Assembly Complex witnessed a bizarre yet defiant spectacle on Monday, February 9, 2026, as demonstrators arrived equipped with mattresses and pillows for a "sleep-in" protest. 

The unusual display was part of a heated mobilization by civil society groups and concerned citizens demanding the mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results in the newly passed Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026.

The protest, which slowed traffic and drew a massive security presence to the Three Arms Zone, was triggered by the Senate’s recent decision to reject a clause that would have made real-time digital uploads of polling unit results compulsory. 

Instead, lawmakers opted to maintain the discretionary powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a move protesters describe as a "red flag" for the 2027 general elections.

As some demonstrators lay on their mattresses directly in front of the legislative entrance, they held up placards insisting that transparency cannot be "discretionary." One protest leader, speaking to journalists amidst the sea of bedding, made their mission clear:

"We are prepared to sleep here if that is what it takes to wake up our lawmakers. You cannot build a digital economy and then ask for a manual, 'trust-me' election. We want the words 'real-time electronic transmission' written in black and white in the law. Without it, the 2027 elections are already in jeopardy."

The Senate has defended its stance, arguing that logistical hurdles and internet infrastructure gaps in remote interlands make a rigid mandate impractical. However, this explanation has done little to soothe the nerves of activists. 

Mr. Jimi Ahisu, a policy analyst observing the scene, noted that the visual of mattresses at the parliament’s gate signifies a deep-seated exhaustion with the current political process.

"The use of mattresses and pillows is a powerful symbol. It says that the citizens are tired, but also that they aren't going anywhere. They are literally making themselves at home at the doorstep of power to ensure their voices aren't silenced by legislative technicalities," Ahisu remarked.

President Tinubu Orders Reopening of Benin Republic Borders After 7-Year Hiatus

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Nigeria Customs 

ABUJA, NIGERIA – In a move set to reshape regional commerce, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially ordered the reopening of Nigeria's land borders with the Republic of Benin, specifically the Tsamiya corridor in Kebbi State. 

This directive, announced on February 7, 2026, ends a seven-year closure that began in 2019 under the previous administration to curb smuggling and promote local rice production.

The President’s decision is rooted in a strategic push to alleviate the economic hardship faced by border communities and to stimulate the free flow of foreign trade within the West African sub-region. By reopening this vital trade artery, the federal government aims to revive the "northern food basket," allowing the legal transit of agricultural products like onions, grains, and peppers, which had been severely restricted for years.

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, confirmed the presidential approval during a high-level stakeholders' engagement in Birnin Kebbi. Adeniyi revealed that the reopening is not "business as usual," as it will be guided by advanced ICT-based tracking systems and stricter monitoring protocols to ensure that legitimate trade does not become a conduit for illegal activities.

“I am happy to convey the approval of Mr. President to all stakeholders that the Tsamiya border will now be reopened for services,” the Customs CG stated. “We must facilitate trade without compromising national security. Any truck found outside the approved transit corridor will be seized immediately.”

The move has been met with widespread acclaim from economic experts and state leaders. Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State lauded the President for keeping his promises to the people of the Northwest, noting that the state government is already providing critical infrastructure and social amenities at the border to ensure smooth operations. Over 2,000 trucks that had been stranded at the borders for months have already begun moving toward their destinations.

However, the reopening comes with a stern warning regarding security. President Tinubu emphasized that security agencies must maintain "maximum protection" for residents in these areas. This follows recent concerns over the porous nature of the borders and the activities of non-state actors.

LASU Board of Health Team Commends Infrastructure Growth at LASUSBAS, Calls for Health Center Upgrade

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a strategic move to ensure the wellbeing of students, a high-powered inspection team from the Lagos State University Board of Health has visited the Lagos State University School of Basic and Advanced Studies (LASUSBAS) Badagry campus on Thursday, February 5, 2026. 

The visit was aimed at evaluating the current state of health facilities and monitoring the implementation of previous recommendations made during their initial assessment in April 2024.

Led by Prof. Yetunde Abiola Kuyinu, a renowned Professor of Public Health and Community Medicine, the team conducted a comprehensive walk-through of the campus infrastructure. Key areas of focus included the sanitary conditions of toilets and hand-washing basins, the structural integrity of roofing, and the overall environmental hygiene of the Badagry-based campus.

Significant Improvement Since 2024

During the debriefing, Prof. Kuyinu noted a visible transformation in the school’s environment. She highlighted that the campus is now more conducive for learning and living compared to the observations made two years ago. The team specifically praised the management for providing additional medical rooms, increasing the number of restrooms, and repairing sections of the roof that were previously dilapidated.

“What we saw now is significantly better than what we saw in 2024,” Prof. Kuyinu remarked. “There is a noticeable improvement in the number of students utilizing the medical facility, which is a sign of increased trust. However, while we have made progress, our previous suggestions have not been fully implemented. There is still much room for improvement.”

From "Health Post" to "Health Center"

A major highlight of the inspection was the call to transition the current medical post into a fully functional Health Center. The Prof. Kuyinu-led team recommended the immediate employment of additional specialized personnel, including a permanent Medical Doctor, a Lab Technician, and an extra Pharmacy Technician to handle the growing student population.

Beyond physical infrastructure, the team proposed a more proactive health management system. Prof. Kuyinu suggested that all incoming students should be required to register their comprehensive health history upon admission. Furthermore, the team strongly recommended that every student be enrolled under a Health Insurance Scheme to ensure they have access to affordable and quality care in case of emergencies.

Focus on Nutrition and Food Safety

The inspection team also evaluated the newly established campus canteen. While they acknowledged its existence as a positive addition that was absent during the 2024 visit, they emphasized the need for higher standards of food safety.

“The canteen is a welcome development, but its operations must be improved. We recommend that mandatory food handlers' tests be conducted every month to prevent the outbreak of foodborne illnesses among the students,” the team suggested.

Management’s Commitment to Excellence

Responding to the observations, the Director of LASUSBAS, Prof. Yunus Adeleke Dauda, expressed his gratitude for the professional oversight provided by the LASU Board of Health team. He affirmed that the school is committed to maintaining the high standards set by the University’s central management.

“This visit will help us improve our facilities to give the best to our students,” Prof. Dauda stated. “Following their last visit, we improved the sickbay and procured necessary equipment as suggested. We have noted the new areas identified today including the need for more personnel and a transition to a health center—and we shall inform the University management accordingly. We promise to take care of all observations made.”

Prof. Dauda also took the opportunity to commend the Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, for her unwavering commitment to the developmental strides of the institution. He noted that her leadership has been instrumental in the rapid infrastructure upgrades seen across all LASU campuses, including the Badagry annex.

"Education is Not a Scam": Prof. Paul-Sewa Thovoethin Celebrates 25 Years of Academic Excellence

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Professor Paul-Sewa Thovoethin 

Professor Paul-Sewa Thovoethin, a renowned expert in Comparative Politics and Public Policy at Lagos State University (LASU), has celebrated a dual milestone: his 25th anniversary at the institution and his recent elevation to the rank of Professor. 

The celebration, held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the Methodist Church in Ajara, Badagry, served as both a thanksgiving and a clarion call to Nigerian youths to prioritize education.

The event marked exactly a quarter-century since Professor Thovoethin joined LASU in February 2001. Reflecting on a career that began with an Ordinary National Diploma (OND), the scholar described himself as a "product of circumstance" who defied the odds to reach the pinnacle of academia. 

His journey from a Graduate Assistant to a Professor a path that took nearly 24 years was one marked by resilience in the face of institutional delays and academic politics.

"I will tell you I’m a product of circumstance," Prof. Thovoethin shared during the thanksgiving service. "Ordinarily, I wasn't supposed to be in the academic line because I started as an OND student. By the grace of God, I started as a graduate assistant and, despite the ups and downs, I am hale and healthy today to celebrate being the first Professor in the entire Ajara Kingdom."

Addressing the younger generation directly, the Professor challenged the cynical view that academic pursuits are futile in today’s economy. He emphasized that education remains the most enduring legacy and the surest path to self-actualization.

"I will tell the youths that education is not a scam; it is the best legacy a parent can give. I was once at a stage where I wasn't serious about academics, but I realized there are no two ways to it. If I could achieve this, I believe they can achieve even more than I have done," he added.

The celebration also touched on the political climate in Nigeria. As a Professor of Political Science, Thovoethin lamented the rise of "transactional politics" that prioritizes selfish interests over the masses. However, he expressed optimism regarding the current leadership in Badagry, noting a positive shift toward community-focused governance.

Among the dignitaries present was Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, former House of Representatives member and a key figure in Badagry’s political landscape. 

Hunpe lauded the Professor’s contributions to the community, describing him as a "wonderful person" whose intellectual support was instrumental in his own political journey.

"Professor Thovoethin encouraged and supported me to venture into politics. I want the youths to emulate him the first Professor in Ajara Kingdom. We celebrate his life and his dedication to this land," Hunpe remarked.

The 25-year milestone cements Professor Thovoethin’s legacy at Lagos State University, where he previously made history as the first lecturer in the Political Science Department to produce a PhD graduate in 36 years. His story stands as a testament to the fact that with persistence, the "long road" of education eventually leads to the highest peaks of honor.

Badagry's Iworo FM 96.3 the Indigenous Radio Celebrates its first Anniversary in Grand Style

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Nigeria’s foremost indigenous radio station, Iworo FM 96.3, in Iworo-Awori Kingdom of Badagry, Lagos State has celebrated its first anniversary. 

The milestone event, held on February 7 2026 marked twelve months of broadcasting excellence, brought together a galaxy of stars, traditional icons, and political heavyweights to honor a station that has rapidly become the "Voice of the People."

The glamorous celebration commenced with a profound session of thanksgiving, where the management and staff offered prayers of gratitude for the station's meteoric rise since its inception in 2025. Despite the typical hurdles faced by new media outlets in a competitive digital age, the organizers highlighted how divine intervention and community support allowed the station to soar above the odds, cementing its place in the hearts of listeners across the Badagry and Olorunda axis.

Among the dignitaries gracing the occasion was the traditional ruler of the land, Oba (Dr.) Oladele Friday Kosoko, the Oniworo of Iworo-Awori Kingdom, who also serves as the Chairman of the Board. He was joined by the Chairman of Olorunda LCDA, Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, along with a host of other traditional rulers, Christian and Muslim clerics, and community leaders who all gathered to witness the historic moment.

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Addressing the jubilant crowd, the traditional rulers noted that the presence of Iworo FM has been a catalyst for unprecedented development. One monarch emphasized that the station has acted as a bridge, connecting the Iworo Kingdom to the global stage. "Iworo FM is a good initiative that has attracted development to the community. It has placed Iworo Kingdom on the national map, all thanks to the amazing and laudable work of the management," the monarch remarked during his keynote speech.

The King further lauded the operational growth of the frequency, stating, “Within one year, there has been tremendous progress in the operations of this radio station. I am glad to see the improvements and also congratulate the people of Iworo for having an investment like this.” His words resonated with the audience, many of whom have become daily devotees of the station’s rich indigenous programming.

The highlight of the afternoon was a prestigious award ceremony where the management was honored by 1423 Communications. In recognition of its disruptive impact on the broadcasting industry, Iworo FM 96.3 was bestowed with the awards for "Fastest Rising Indigenous Radio Station in the Badagry–Iworo Axis" and "Best Radio Station in Breaking News Coverage Across the Interlands." These accolades serve as a testament to the station's commitment to journalistic integrity and community-centric reporting.

A representative of 1423 Communications explained that the decision to honor the station was based on merit and consistent performance. “Iworo FM deserves all the accolades it is getting because it has done exceedingly well for the community and Lagos State as a whole. These awards are the result of careful observation of the station’s operations and activities. It is indeed marvelous,” the representative noted during the presentation.

In a heartfelt response, Oba Oladele Friday Kosoko expressed his gratitude for the recognition, reaffirming his dedication to the station's future. “We are very happy with this award. It shows that we are being watched, and to be considered for these laudable awards means a lot to us. I will continue to show commitment to this radio station and will do even more as we move forward in the coming years,” the Board Chairman pledged.

The station gave back to its loyal listeners through an exciting raffle draw. The air was filled with cheers as several participants walked away with valuable prizes, including electric fans, bags of rice, premium clothing materials, and various food items.