Kidnapped Oyo Pupils and Teachers Regain Freedom After 56-Day Ordeal

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Kidnapped Oyo pupils and teachers 

OYO STATE, NIGERIA – The nation breathed a collective sigh of relief on Friday, July 10, 2026, as the Presidency confirmed the rescue of all pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in the Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The victims, who spent 56 days in captivity following their abduction on May 15, have finally been reunited with their families.

The rescue was announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who confirmed the successful outcome of a coordinated operation led by federal security agencies. "Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Orire, Oyo, have been rescued by our security agencies," Onanuga stated in a verified post on X.

Details of the operation reveal that the rescue was achieved through a swift and strategic maneuver by the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force. Presidential officials have confirmed that eight members of the kidnapping gang were arrested during the operation and are currently being held in DSS custody, while several other assailants were neutralized.

Significantly, the Presidency emphasized that the rescue was conducted without any "quid pro quo." The abductors had previously demanded the release of a high-profile terror kingpin in exchange for the hostages a demand the Federal Government categorically rejected.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, expressed his profound joy at the news, describing the return of the schoolchildren as a "big relief" for the entire state. In an interview following the announcement, Governor Makinde commended the collaboration between various security agencies and the Federal Government.

"It's such a big relief for all of us and for those that have been waiting for the past 57 days," the Governor said. "I want to say thank you to our service commanders, the Nigeria Police, the DSS, the military, and the high command, and of course the President, for pushing really hard to have this done."

Among the survivors was Rachael Alamu, the principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, who shared a touching video message of gratitude following the rescue. "President, sir, our father, we are grateful. We understand your commitment to our safety and we appreciate all you did for us," she said, visibly moved. "The security operatives tried so much, and that is why we are still alive today."

The abduction, which targeted Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community High School, and L.A. Primary School, had triggered national outrage and concern over the safety of pupils in rural communities. With the victims now safe and receiving necessary medical and psychosocial support, the focus shifts to ensuring their reintegration and strengthening school security protocols across the state.

Badagry Local Government Restricts Indiscriminate Banner Placement

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Badagry Local Government has officially announced a new executive order aimed at sanitizing the visual landscape of the town’s primary gateway. Effective immediately, the Executive Chairman, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, has placed a strict restriction on the indiscriminate placement of flex banners, posters, and other advertising materials at the Badagry International Roundabout.

The move is part of the administration's broader urban renewal strategy, designed to decongest the area, improve traffic flow, and restore the aesthetic integrity of one of the busiest corridors in the division.

For years, the Badagry International Roundabout has been cluttered with various forms of signage, which officials argue has obstructed critical traffic signs and hampered visibility for motorists. By clearing these obstructions, the local government aims to enhance road safety and ensure that the area remains a presentable gateway for residents and visitors alike.

Speaking on the initiative, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe emphasized that the action is a necessary step for sustainable urban development. "This will also improve visibility for motorists, prevent obstruction of traffic signs, and maintain the aesthetic and structural integrity of one of Badagry's busiest gateway corridors," the Chairman stated in an interview.

While the order restricts unauthorized advertising, it does not represent a total ban on all messaging. Individuals, corporate groups, and political organizations wishing to display banners or signage within the roundabout axis are now required to seek formal approval from the Local Government authorities.

The administration has issued a clear warning to those who may attempt to bypass these regulations. Enforcement teams have been mobilized to remove any materials placed in violation of this order, and the Chairman noted that violators may face appropriate sanctions.

The Badagry Local Government leadership has expressed appreciation for the ongoing support of residents, traders, and community stakeholders. Hon. Hunpe reiterated that the success of these urban reorganization efforts depends on the collective commitment of the people to keep the community "safe, orderly, and presentable."

Elite Schools Join Race for ₦1 Billion as Nationwide Geneith Health Competition Heats Up

By: Manoah Kikekon 

NIGERIA – The national drive to eradicate malaria has received a major boost as three of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha; St. Patrick’s College, Asaba; and Muwanshat International Academy, Jalingo have officially joined the Geneith Health Competition (GHC). Their entry signals an intensification of the race for the competition’s landmark ₦1 billion prize package.

The Geneith Health Competition, an initiative designed to mobilize students to proffer innovative solutions to the malaria crisis, is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of Nigeria’s public health advocacy. By blending academic rigor with social responsibility, the competition seeks to empower a new generation of "Anti-Malaria Ambassadors" across secondary and tertiary institutions.

The entry of these high-profile schools follows an intensive nationwide sensitization campaign led by GHC activators. In Taraba State, regional health activator Abduljalilu Sani Garba visited Muwanshat International Academy, where he was met with high levels of student engagement. "The students demonstrated an exceptional willingness to engage with the programme," Garba noted, highlighting the confidence and competitive spirit currently fueling the registration drive across Northern Nigeria.

In the South-East, Mrs. Chinyere Chidimma Olisa reported a similar wave of enthusiasm at the historic Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) in Onitsha. Reflecting on the school’s academic heritage, she remarked that the students’ intellectual curiosity marks them as "true champions" in the making.

For school administrators, the competition serves as a critical platform for developing leadership and critical thinking. Revd. Dr. Chiemezie Ogidi, Principal of DMGS, lauded the initiative for transforming students from passive victims of malaria into active agents of change.

"Malaria remains one of the greatest threats to the future of our young people," Ogidi said. "Initiatives like this equip students with the knowledge they need to protect themselves while preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society."

The initiator of the competition and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Sunday Iloabanafor, emphasized that the GHC has evolved into a "national movement." He stated, "The Geneith Health Competition has become much more than a quiz competition. It is a national movement committed to raising a generation of health ambassadors who understand that preventing malaria begins with knowledge, discipline, and community action."

Echoing this sentiment, the Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, stressed that the energy and innovation of Nigerian youth are essential to solving the country's public health challenges. He noted that future editions of the programme are expected to expand beyond malaria to address other critical health and safety issues.

With a total prize pool exceeding ₦1 billion, the competition offers winners at the state, regional, and national levels substantial rewards, including cash prizes, scholarships, and training opportunities. The initiative, endorsed by the Department of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, is structured in three progressive levels: State Competition, Regional Competition, and National Finals

As the October 30, 2026, national finale approaches, the organizers are urging all eligible public and private secondary schools, as well as tertiary institutions, to finalize their registrations via the official portal at [www.geneithhealthcompetition.com](http://www.geneithhealthcompetition.com).Elite Schools Join Race for ₦1 Billion as Nationwide Geneith Health Competition Heats Up

NIGERIA – The national drive to eradicate malaria has received a major boost as three of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha; St. Patrick’s College, Asaba; and Muwanshat International Academy, Jalingo have officially joined the Geneith Health Competition (GHC). Their entry signals an intensification of the race for the competition’s landmark ₦1 billion prize package.

The Geneith Health Competition, an initiative designed to mobilize students to proffer innovative solutions to the malaria crisis, is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of Nigeria’s public health advocacy. By blending academic rigor with social responsibility, the competition seeks to empower a new generation of "Anti-Malaria Ambassadors" across secondary and tertiary institutions.

The entry of these high-profile schools follows an intensive nationwide sensitization campaign led by GHC activators. In Taraba State, regional health activator Abduljalilu Sani Garba visited Muwanshat International Academy, where he was met with high levels of student engagement. "The students demonstrated an exceptional willingness to engage with the programme," Garba noted, highlighting the confidence and competitive spirit currently fueling the registration drive across Northern Nigeria.

In the South-East, Mrs. Chinyere Chidimma Olisa reported a similar wave of enthusiasm at the historic Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) in Onitsha. Reflecting on the school’s academic heritage, she remarked that the students’ intellectual curiosity marks them as "true champions" in the making.

For school administrators, the competition serves as a critical platform for developing leadership and critical thinking. Revd. Dr. Chiemezie Ogidi, Principal of DMGS, lauded the initiative for transforming students from passive victims of malaria into active agents of change.

"Malaria remains one of the greatest threats to the future of our young people," Ogidi said. "Initiatives like this equip students with the knowledge they need to protect themselves while preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society."

The initiator of the competition and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Sunday Iloabanafor, emphasized that the GHC has evolved into a "national movement." He stated, "The Geneith Health Competition has become much more than a quiz competition. It is a national movement committed to raising a generation of health ambassadors who understand that preventing malaria begins with knowledge, discipline, and community action."

Echoing this sentiment, the Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, stressed that the energy and innovation of Nigerian youth are essential to solving the country's public health challenges. He noted that future editions of the programme are expected to expand beyond malaria to address other critical health and safety issues.

With a total prize pool exceeding ₦1 billion, the competition offers winners at the state, regional, and national levels substantial rewards, including cash prizes, scholarships, and training opportunities. The initiative, endorsed by the Department of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, is structured in three progressive levels: State Competition, Regional Competition, and National Finals

As the October 30, 2026, national finale approaches, the organizers are urging all eligible public and private secondary schools, as well as tertiary institutions, to finalize their registrations via the official portal at [www.geneithhealthcompetition.com](http://www.geneithhealthcompetition.com).

Outcry as LASUED Deducts "illegal" Fees from NELFUND Refunds Following News Peddlers report

By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) concern students have alleged that the institution has commenced "illegal deductions" from their long-awaited Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) refunds. The development follows widespread student agitation over withheld student loan reimbursements and mandatory administrative charges.

The controversy centers on the demand that the school should release NELFUND loan to the students who ha already paid their tuition fees for the academic session. According to affected students, the institution had withheld the funds for an extended period, only beginning to process them after the News Peddlers report on Thursday yesterday, regarding the delay.

Related:

LASUED Students Protest Withheld NELFUND Refunds and Mandatory Photoshoot Fees

However, "rather than allowing us have access to our complete money" students report that the management has deducted ₦14,500 from the expected ₦121,500 refund, leaving many feeling shortchanged. "Meanwhile as we speak we can only see the money on our student portal we don't have access to it," A student said.

Deduction of #14,500 indicated on student portal 

A 400-level student from the Faculty of Social Sciences expressed frustration to reporters, stating: "The school management started making changes after the reports were released. While the money finally appeared on our portals, they deducted ₦14,500 as ‘other charges.’ Other charges for what? The school just wants to extort us, and we won’t accept that."

Another student from the Faculty of Management Sciences highlighted the financial strain the delay has caused. "The NELFUND was meant for school fees, but the money was not disbursed until after we paid the fees ourselves. Now that the money has finally been disbursed, the school has refused to give us our full refund. Today is our signing-out day, and this is pure injustice."

Some students suspect the deduction is linked to a mandatory ₦10,000 photoshoot fee that had previously been a point of contention. "I want to believe that ₦14,000 is for the photoshoot fee," said Bukola, a student. "If not, the school does not have any reason to charge us, because personally, I am not owing the school anything. We won't be silent; we know this is our money and we will collect it completely."

This development comes amid a broader national concern regarding tertiary institutions withholding student loan refunds. The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has recently issued stern warnings to institutions across the country, cautioning them against delaying refunds or imposing arbitrary fee hikes.

NELFUND’s management has reiterated that the loan scheme was designed to remove financial barriers for students, not to provide institutions with a vehicle for additional revenue through administrative deductions. While NELFUND does not currently possess the legal mandate to prosecute institutions for these practices, the agency has initiated investigations into dozens of schools accused of failing to reimburse students who paid twice.

Daniel Bwala Initiates Lawsuit Against Al Jazeera Over Mehdi Hasan

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has officially initiated legal proceedings against Al Jazeera in the United Kingdom. The lawsuit follows what Bwala describes as the "selective editing" of his March 2026 appearance on the broadcaster’s flagship programme, Head to Head, hosted by Mehdi Hasan.

Mr. Bwala disclosed the legal action during an appearance on *The Morayo Show* this past Thursday. He alleged that the network intentionally manipulated the footage of his 90-minute interview, airing only 49 minutes of the discussion. According to the presidential aide, the final broadcast was skewed to favor the host, omitting crucial segments where he had successfully "fact-checked" Mr. Hasan.

“The deeper point is that they cut out the parts where I was fact-checking him and the crowd was clapping for me, and instead kept the parts where he was speaking and people were clapping for him,” Bwala stated. He further accused the network of employing a "cut and joined" technique, where his denials of past comments were spliced alongside clips of his previous statements without providing necessary context or allowing for a fair response.

Bwala revealed that he had pursued the matter privately with the network prior to the lawsuit. He claimed that Al Jazeera acknowledged ethical lapses in how the interview was conducted—specifically failing to disclose that his credibility regarding his past criticism of President Tinubu would be a primary talking point.

However, a breakdown in negotiations occurred when the broadcaster allegedly refused his demand for a public retraction. “They apologised to me privately. I said they should put it on social media. They said they will not. So I instructed my lawyers in England to go to court,” he explained.

Bwala noted that the decision to escalate the matter was guided by his legal advisers in England, who maintained that the network's handling of the footage amounted to “defamation of character.”

The original interview, which aired in March 2026, became a viral talking point after Mehdi Hasan confronted Bwala with statements he had made during his tenure as a spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar 2023 presidential campaign. At that time, Bwala had been a vocal critic of then-candidate Bola Tinubu.

Since the broadcast, Bwala has consistently maintained that he was blindsided by the focus of the interview and that the editing process misrepresented his position. He further argued that the network’s creative control over the recorded programme violated professional journalism ethics. As of the time of reporting, Al Jazeera has not issued a public statement regarding the pending legal action.

LASUED Students Protest Withheld NELFUND Refunds and Mandatory Photoshoot Fees

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) students has express growing frustration over the management’s handling of Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) disbursements and the imposition of a mandatory N10,000 fee for a final-year photoshoot exercise.

In an open letter addressed to the university administration, the affected students, who are beneficiaries of the federal student loan scheme, have demanded an immediate refund of tuition fees that were paid twice—first by the students through personal or family sacrifices and later by NELFUND on their behalf.

The students revealed that although the university’s e-wallet system reflects the equivalent of the NELFUND disbursement, they have been denied unrestricted access to withdraw or utilize these funds. 

"The money is showing on our portal but we don't have access to it, and we've written letters severally but there is no response," a 400-level student from the Faculty of Social Sciences told reporters.

This delay has persisted for over two months, leaving many students in financial distress. Beneficiaries of the loan scheme across Nigeria are currently facing similar challenges, as the Federal Government’s rollout of the initiative midway through the academic session led to instances of double payments. 

The NELFUND management has recently confirmed that it is investigating 34 tertiary institutions across the country for failing to reimburse students in such cases.

In their formal appeal, the LASUED students warned that if the management fails to resolve the issue promptly, they are prepared to escalate the matter through petitions to regulatory bodies, and media engagement.

The student body has rejected a memo from the university management mandating a N10,000 fee for a "Photoshoot Exercise and Virtual Graduate Profile Packaging Workshop."

The memo explicitly directed students to pay the amount into the "LASUED IGR ACCOUNT" via accredited commercial bank apps or direct deposit, while warning against the use of mobile banking apps or POS terminals to ensure transaction traceability. However, students argue that such costs should not be compulsory.

"The photoshoot should not be made compulsory," a 400-level student from the Department of Accounting noted. "There are various ways that other universities in the state have been getting the photos of their students without paying for a mandatory photoshoot."

As the time of this publication all attempts to rech the university management was not successful. As final-year students prepare to "sign out" this week, the calls for transparency and accountability have intensified, with the student body insisting that their interests and financial welfare must be prioritized.

Clothe the Girl Child Foundation celebrates ‘Best of Fashion Eve 2.0’ with free Skills Workshop in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY – Clothe A Girl Child Foundation has launched the second edition of its signature skills acquisition program, Best of Fashion Eve 2.0. The one-week intensive training, which commenced on Monday, July 7, 2026, is currently equipping over 150 students from Senior and junior secondary school of State High School in Badagry with practical expertise in fashion design, professional baking, and musical performance.

The initiative, is a collaboration between the Clothe A Girl Child Foundation, Debra E World(Fashion), Abigeal Olaitan Oderinde (Baking), and Loco De La Cruz (Music), which seeks to bridge the gap between classroom education and the practical demands of the modern economy.

During the opening ceremony, Deborah Hunge, founder of the Clothe A Girl Child Foundation and CEO of Debra E World, emphasized the significance of the program’s growth since its inception last year.

“This is not the first edition but the second. We held a similar training last year at Badagry Grammar School, where we even had some teachers who participated,” Hunge remarked. “I want you all to put your best; trust me, you will learn a lot. This program is designed to provide you with the tools to build sustainable futures.”

Guest speakers at the event underscored the importance of vocational training. Dr. Shakirat Dosumu addressed the students on the necessity of financial independence, urging them to view the training as a rare opportunity. "Getting a skill goes a long way if you want to be financially stable in life," she noted.

Echoing this sentiment, Badagry-born movie producer Mr, Viyon Awhanse reminded the students of the value of the free training. “If you were to go learn this outside, it would cost you huge money. This is a rare privilege we didn't get when we were in secondary school. In life, if you want to be great, be sincere and obedient to your parents they will never lead you to anything bad.”

The program is designed to be highly participatory, ensuring that the 150 students drawn from both junior and senior secondary levels receive hands-on experience in their chosen fields. By blending the creative arts with technical vocational skills, the foundation aims to produce well-rounded individuals capable of contributing to the local economy.

The week-long workshop is scheduled to reach its grand finale on Friday, July 10, 2026, within the school premises. The closing ceremony will feature an exhibition where students will showcase the skills and projects they have developed during the week. 

The event will also mark the official launch of the Debra E World Magazine, with the foundation extending an open invitation to parents, guardians, and members of the public to witness the students' achievements.