Flam D’Afrique and Badagry LGEA Flag Off Y2026 Schools Sports Fiesta

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Flam D’Afrique CEO and 

Flam D’Afrique Gym and Group Sports Centre, in collaboration with the Badagry Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), has officially kicked off the Y2026 Biennial Schools Sports Fiesta.

The tournament was flagged off on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at the Local Authority (LA) Primary School in Ajara, Badagry. The preliminary rounds are scheduled to run from September 30 to October 4, 2026, across primary schools in Badagry LGA, Badagry West LCDA, and Olorunda LCDA.

The fiesta features a wide variety of competitive games designed to engage young minds and bodies, including Football, Chess, Ayo Olopon and Ludo

Speaking at the launch, the Education Secretary of the Badagry LGEA, Mr. Hontonyon Joel Viyon, emphasized the importance of physical education in holistic child development.

"In every school, we focus on the cognitive domain, the affective domain, and the psychomotor domain. What we are doing here today targets the psychomotor domain," he stated.

He added that as this is the second edition of the fiesta, organizers are fully committed to making it bigger, better, and more impactful than the inaugural event.

Representing the CEO of Flam D'Afrique, Barrister Seyon Mesitode highlighted the organization's mission to bridge the gap for talented young athletes in Badagry.

"We want to provide solutions to the major problems talented children and youths face in Badagry. Often, after children realize their potential, it is challenging to secure the sponsorship needed to accomplish their dreams," Mesitode explained.

He further announced, "After this competition, we will select the best among them. Whenever we receive invitations from European clubs, with the cooperation of school authorities and parents, we will facilitate international pathways for them immediately. Gone are the days when talents died in Badagry; now, we are taking them to the world."

NPME 2026: FG Set to Extend Pharma Executive Order as Nigeria Targets Regional Hub Status

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Federal Government has signalled its intention to extend the Presidential Executive Order supporting local pharmaceutical manufacturing by an additional two years. This crucial policy move aims to sustain the momentum in Nigeria's healthcare sector, fortify national medicine security, and accelerate the country's transformation into a leading regional pharmaceutical hub for Africa.

The announcement was a major highlight at the 8th Nigeria Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Expo (NPME) 2026, held on September 28 and 29 at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos. Organised by the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMGMAN), the two-day high-profile event drew over 200 exhibitors, policymakers, global development partners, and industry leaders to discuss localisation, supply chain resilience, and life sciences sovereignty across the continent.

Delivering the opening address, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, reaffirmed the Federal Government's unwavering commitment to expanding domestic manufacturing. He stressed that a robust local pharmaceutical ecosystem is vital for achieving sustainable healthcare resilience and economic growth.

"We must strengthen capacity across the entire pharmaceutical value chain covering research and development, innovation, sourcing of active pharmaceutical ingredients, formulation, manufacturing, and stringent quality assurance," Dr. Salako stated.

He further urged stakeholders to scale up investments in sophisticated medical technologies, including vaccines and biologics, while championing regional cooperation to eliminate cross-border trade barriers.

Echoing this sentiment, PMGMAN Chairman Oluwatosin Jolayemi noted that while the local industry has grown to represent over 200 manufacturing companies, operators continue to battle steep energy tariffs, infrastructure gaps, and high capital costs. To consolidate recent gains, Jolayemi formally appealed to the Federal Government to extend the current Presidential Executive Order due to expire in March 2027 by another two years.

"Our ambition to become a regional pharmaceutical manufacturing hub must be anchored on a competitive, scalable, and resilient domestic manufacturing ecosystem," Jolayemi emphasised.

Representing the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, the Director of Chemical and Non-Pharmaceutical Industry, Mr. John Okpe Oluwa, reiterated the government's target of achieving 70 percent domestic production of essential medicines. He noted that expanded local capacity will allow Nigerian manufacturers to tap aggressively into the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), boosting pharmaceutical exports across West Africa and beyond.

Proposed federal interventions to back these targets include: Expanded tax exemptions and machinery tariff waivers. Incentives for backward integration in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) production. Dedicated low-interest pharmaceutical intervention funds.

Stronger collaboration with NAFDAC and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to guarantee global export competitiveness.

Meanwhile, NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye revealed that 37 local manufacturing facilities are currently undergoing retrofitting and construction upgrades to meet international standards.

"Nigeria cannot afford to reverse the gains recorded in local pharmaceutical manufacturing. We must intensify efforts towards producing vaccines and critical health commodities locally," Prof. Adeyeye warned.

Addressing the broader African market, the Director-General of the African Medicines Agency (AMA), Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, called for deep regulatory harmonisation across African nations. She noted that AMA is designed to coordinate systems and simplify market navigation rather than replace national regulatory authorities.

The expo also featured the prestigious Founders and Industry Leaders Session, which brought together veteran pharmaceutical titans such as Dr. Stella Okoli (Emzor Pharmaceuticals), Dr. Fidelis Ayebae (Fidson Plc), Dr. Olakunle Ekundayo (Drugfield Pharmaceuticals), and Elder Varkey Verghese (Jawal International Limited) to mentor emerging industry entrepreneurs.

As a testament to forward-thinking regulation, PMGMAN officially unveiled its Industry Self-Regulation Quality Plus (ISRQ+) Project. This comprehensive initiative features a five-year Medicine Security Industry Advocacy Strategy (2027–2031), an advanced ISRQ+ laboratory, and a dedicated Data Learning Centre expected to roll out progressively over the next six to ten months.

Closing the epoch-making event, Pharm. Frank Muonemeh charged stakeholders to maintain their dedication to closing Africa's medicine access gap. PMGMAN has subsequently announced preparations for the 9th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers Expo in 2028, as the nation firmly sets its sight on global pharmaceutical prominence.

Flam D’Afrique Set to Launch Ultra-Modern Gym in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Flam D’Afrique Gym equipment 

Fitness enthusiasts and wellness seekers in Badagry have something massive to cheer about. Flam D’Afrique is officially rolling out its brand-new, state-of-the-art gym center in Oloko, along Badagry-Seme expressway, Lagos State, on October 5, 2026.

Designed to cater to everyone from absolute beginners to professional bodybuilders and fitness fanatics, the facility promises to redefine health, wellness, and physical conditioning across the region.

Whether your goal is weight loss, muscle building, endurance training, or overall physical conditioning, Flam D’Afrique is fully kitted out with premium gear to help you crush your targets:

Top-Tier Cardio Machines: Crank up your heart rate with professional-grade treadmills for indoor running and incline training, stationary spin bikes for leg endurance, low-impact elliptical trainers, powerful rowing machines, and high-intensity stair climbers for ultimate glute and leg conditioning.

Comprehensive Free Weights Area: Build raw strength with versatile dumbbells, heavy-duty barbells and plates, functional kettlebells for dynamic movements, and medicine or slam balls designed for explosive core power.

Advanced Strength Training Machines: Push your limits safely using secure squat and power racks, targeted lat pulldown machines, heavy leg press platforms, chest press machines, and highly versatile cable crossover functional trainers.

Essential Fitness Accessories: Enhance your recovery and workouts with premium resistance bands, therapeutic foam rollers, comfortable exercise mats, and high-speed jump ropes for coordination.

The countdown has officially begun! Mark your calendar for October 5, 2026, and make your way to Oloko, Badagry to experience the future of fitness. 

Step into Flam D’Afrique, transform your physique, and join a vibrant community dedicated to healthy living.

Are you ready to kickstart your fitness goals at the new Flam D’Afrique gym center this October?

For More Call: 08034104426

Badagry Chairman Babatunde Hunpe Presents Vehicles to Executive Member

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

 

As part of milestone celebrations marking his administration's first year in office, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, has officially handed over utility vehicles to members of the Executive Council. The initiative aims to boost mobility, streamline operations, and enhance grassroots service delivery across the council area.

The presentation ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Council Secretariat situated in Ajara, Badagry, drawing key dignitaries and local government officials.

Addressing attendees at the event, Hon. Hunpe emphasized that the newly distributed vehicles are designed to function as vital operational tools rather than mere status symbols. According to the council boss, the mobility upgrade will empower executive members to reach remote communities seamlessly, engage more closely with residents, monitor ongoing projects, and respond promptly to local concerns.

“Effective governance requires public officials to be properly equipped,” Hunpe stated, noting that the gesture underscores his administration's dedication to responsive and people-oriented leadership.

The event attracted high-profile commendations from key figures within and outside the local government. The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, who served as an eyewitness to the presentation, praised the chairman for a vision-driven approach to local administration.

Alli-Balogun noted that the array of projects commissioned during the anniversary festivities reflects a genuine commitment to the developmental growth of Badagry, asserting that the new vehicles will significantly multiply the productivity of council officials.

Echoing similar sentiments, the Secretary to the Local Government, Mr. Benjamin Adagba, hailed the policy as a crucial catalyst for bolstering the executive team's operational capacity.

Furthermore, the Council Manager, Mrs. Avoseh-Akwe Senami Oluwakemi, commended Hunpe for maintaining an inclusive administrative style while prioritizing the welfare of both staff members and the wider citizenry. 

She hinted that residents should anticipate more transformative initiatives as the local government doubles down on addressing the socio-economic needs of the community.

ATPN Lagos Celebrates World Tourism Day 2026 Ahead Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Lagos State Chapter, has officially joined the global community in commemorating World Tourism Day 2026. The celebration serves as a powerful precursor to the chapter's highly anticipated flagship event, the Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026.

The announcement was made public on Sunday by the Chairperson of ATPN Lagos State Chapter, Alhaja Mrs. Olabisi Kamar-Azeez.

Speaking on the significance of this year’s global celebration, Chairperson Kamar-Azeez highlighted that the theme "Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism" challenges stakeholders to think boldly about the future trajectory of the sector. She noted that cutting-edge digital tools and artificial intelligence offer travelers seamless ways to discover Lagos, empower local micro-enterprises, and optimize the accessibility of tourism services.

However, she emphasized that technology remains a mere tool, pointing out that the true heartbeat of Lagos tourism lies intrinsically within its people, rich heritage, diverse cultures, and legendary hospitality.

“From our historic landmarks and creative communities to our food, festivals and waterfronts, Lagos has stories worth sharing with the world. As practitioners, we must embrace innovation while creating opportunities for the people and businesses that bring those stories to life,” Kamar-Azeez stated.

Extending her goodwill message across the state, she added: "On behalf of ATPN Lagos State Chapter, I celebrate everyone working to make Lagos a welcoming and memorable destination. Happy World Tourism Day!"

Building on the momentum of World Tourism Day, the ATPN Lagos Chairperson formally shifted focus to the upcoming Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026, slated to hold on November 26 and 27, 2026, at the iconic Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos State.

The two-day mega event is designed to bring together key players, experts, and enthusiasts across the sports, tourism, and culture sectors, drawing massive participation from within Lagos State and beyond.

Organizers have underscored that the fiesta will serve as an invaluable convergence zone for tourism investors, business executives, and sport-tourism lovers. Stakeholders looking to expand their network, forge strategic partnerships, and unlock new market segments have been urged not to miss out on the landmark gathering.

Muslim Group Slams Nigerian Government Over Palestine Omission at UNGA Speech

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) Nigeria has strongly criticized the Federal Government for omitting any reference to Palestine in its official address at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

In a statement signed by its Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, the advocacy group expressed disappointment that while Nigeria's 24-paragraph address touched heavily on global issues including UN Security Council reforms, climate finance, artificial intelligence, and counter-terrorism in the Sahel it completely sidelined the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the Palestinian struggle.

MPAC highlighted that this year's silence marks a sharp contrast to Nigeria's address at the 80th UN General Assembly, where the country explicitly condemned violence against civilians in Gaza and threw its weight behind a two-state solution.

“Gaza not mentioned. The Palestinian people not mentioned. The two-state solution – the very phrase Nigeria used ‘without stuttering and without doubt’ twelve months ago – not mentioned once,” the group stated.

The organization linked the sudden omission to strengthening diplomatic and security alignments between Abuja and Tel Aviv since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.

MPAC pointed to several diplomatic milestones, including,  The signing of a bilateral Security Cooperation Agreement between Nigeria and Israel in August 2025. Expanding discussions surrounding intelligence sharing, surveillance tech acquisition, and counter-terrorism training.

Proposed frameworks for a Nigeria-Israel Joint Commission spanning health, technology, and economic cooperation. Given these developments, the Islamic body questioned whether Nigeria's diplomatic silence on the Palestinian issue was a direct consequence of its deepening strategic partnership with Israel.

Calling on the Federal Government to clear the air, MPAC insisted that if Nigeria’s foreign policy stance on the Middle East conflict has indeed shifted, citizens deserve a transparent explanation.

The group further urged the Nigerian government to take bolder steps by publicly backing the Palestinian people, supporting South Africa's ongoing genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and making all bilateral security pacts conditional upon international human rights accountability.

“Palestine has not disappeared. Gaza has not disappeared. The suffering has not disappeared,” MPAC concluded.

ATPN South West VP Apata Calls for AI-Powered Tourism Transformation

 By: Manoah Kikekon

ATPN South West 

Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, The National Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) for the South West Region,  in commemoration of World Tourism Day 2026, has made a passionate appeal for a decisive industry shift toward digital innovation and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Centering his message on this year's global theme, “Digital Agenda & Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” Hon. Apata emphasized that emerging technologies present a historic window to redefine destination management, enhance operational efficiency, and unlock unprecedented economic potential across Nigeria and the broader African continent.

Speaking on the significance of the 2026 celebration, Hon. Apata noted that digital transformation is no longer an optional luxury for tourism stakeholders, but an absolute necessity for survival and global competitiveness. From automated online bookings and digital transactions to intelligent destination marketing, technology continues to reshape how modern travellers interact with the world.

“Tourism is entering a new era in which digital intelligence will increasingly define how destinations compete, how businesses grow and how travellers experience the world. We must not merely observe this transformation; we must actively participate in shaping it,” Hon. Apata stated.

He further challenged governments, private sector operators, and destination managers to formulate robust digital strategies that seamlessly integrate emerging technological frameworks into everyday tourism planning and service delivery.

Highlighting AI as the core frontier of modern innovation, the ATPN chief pointed out multiple ways smart systems can optimize the tourism value chain. According to him, intelligent solutions can significantly improve: Smart Destination Management: Utilizing real-time data to track visitor patterns, mitigate overcrowding, and optimize infrastructural planning.

Personalized Visitor Experiences: Providing travellers with customized itineraries, multilingual translation tools, and accessible destination data.

Enhanced Productivity: Streamlining enterprise operations, automated reservations, and customer communications for small and medium-sized tourism businesses (SMTEs).

Strategic Market Research: Utilizing advanced analytics to forecast travel trends, target international demographics, and guide investor decisions.

Despite these immense advantages, Hon. Apata cautioned that technological integration must be balanced with responsible data governance, strict cybersecurity, and human oversight.

“Artificial Intelligence should enhance human creativity, professionalism and hospitality, not diminish them. The essence of tourism remains human connection, cultural discovery and memorable experiences. Technology must serve these values,” he added.

Addressing the digital disparities across global markets, the South West Vice President called for deliberate investments in digital literacy, affordable broadband connectivity, and technical training for rural operators and grassroots tourism assets. He stressed that an inclusive digital agenda must protect emerging economies from falling further behind established global hubs.

Focusing on Nigeria and Africa, Hon. Apata expressed strong optimism that digital storytelling, intelligent branding, and online distribution networks can project the continent's rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes onto the global map. 

He urged regional leaders, tech innovators, and academic institutions to forge strategic partnerships that align local realities with international standards.