Reviving Nigeria’s Textile Sector: Filmmaker Viyon Awhanse Urges FG to Site Industrial Hub in Badagry

 By Manoah Kikekon 

Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) and Viyon Awhanse 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Prominent film producer, media entrepreneur, and Director of the Badagry International Film, Cultural & Sports Festival, Viyon Awhanse, has called on the Federal Government to establish a major textile manufacturing industry in Badagry, Lagos State.

The appeal comes in the wake of Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent high-level delegation to the Republic of Benin. Accompanied by six state governors, the Vice President visited the renowned Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) to study its successful industrialization model and explore strategies to revitalize Nigeria's struggling textile sector through the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) program.

Awhanse, who also serves as the CEO of Gbagi Communications Ltd., shared his unique perspective on the model, having previously produced an international documentary on location at the GDIZ facility alongside IBST and a CNN team for Afreximbank—the primary financier of the zone.

"Having produced an international documentary on location at GDIZ alongside IBST and the CNN team for Afreximbank—the primary financier of the zone—I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of this mega-project," Awhanse stated. "GDIZ seamlessly integrates the full agricultural value chain: sourcing raw cotton directly from local farmers and transforming it into export-ready textiles, garments, Ankara fabrics, towels, and bedsheets."

Beyond textiles, Awhanse noted that the zone operates as a fully self-sustaining ecosystem encompassing cashew processing, pharmaceuticals, and food production chains. He argued that replicating this integrated framework in strategic coastal trade corridors like Badagry would yield substantial economic benefits for Nigeria.

According to Awhanse, establishing a similar industrial zone in Badagry would address several key economic challenges:

Lower Production & Import Costs: Domestic production hubs would eliminate expensive foreign travel and high freight costs historically incurred by traders traveling to Asia from major commercial markets like Oshodi, Idumota, Onitsha, and Kano.

Agricultural Off-take & Job Creation: Direct local sourcing would empower Nigerian cotton farmers while creating thousands of manufacturing jobs for the youth.

Regional Trade Dominance: Localized processing would retain wealth within national borders, positioning Nigeria as West Africa’s primary manufacturing and export powerhouse.

The recent diplomatic and economic mission saw Vice President Shettima travel to Cotonou alongside governors from Imo, Zamfara, Plateau, Kwara, Katsina, and Jigawa states to evaluate the GDIZ model. Awhanse commended the federal leadership for taking proactive steps to study regional best practices.

"The steps being taken by the Federal Government to study and adapt regional best practices provide a clear roadmap for economic recovery," Awhanse remarked. "By combining strong policy leadership with strategic infrastructure in key locations like Badagry, Nigeria is well-positioned to drive Africa’s next industrial leap."

Awhanse added that the federal government should support the Lagos State Government in building a film village in Badagry, as Badagry remains the major tourism hub in Lagos State.

This will further encourage the promotion and preservation of the rich culture of the Badagry people. 

Viyon Awhanse Urges Adoption of Benin’s GDIZ Model Following VP Shettima’s Visit

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Shettima’s Visit alongside other governors 

LAGOS, NIGERIA– Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent high-level delegation to the Benin Republic accompanied by six state governors has been hailed as a decisive step toward reigniting Nigeria’s industrial engine. The strategic study tour focused on the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ), a premier hub designed to revitalize the textile sector and accelerate Nigeria’s Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) initiative.

Reacting to the development on Friday, July 24, 2026, renowned TV and film producer Viyon Awhanse, CEO of Gbagi Communications Ltd. and Director of the Badagry International Film, Cultural & Sports Festival, described the Federal Government's initiative as a visionary move toward economic self-reliance.

Awhanse brings a unique perspective to the conversation, having produced an international documentary on location at GDIZ alongside IBST and the CNN team for Afreximbank, the primary financier of the mega-project.

“Having produced an international documentary on location at GDIZ... I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of this mega-project,” Awhanse disclosed to News Peddlers. “GDIZ seamlessly integrates the full agricultural value chain: sourcing raw cotton directly from local farmers and transforming it into export-ready textiles, garments, Ankara fabrics, towels, and bedsheets. Beyond textiles, it operates as a fully self-sustaining industrial ecosystem encompassing cashew processing, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and food production chains.”

Awhanse emphasized that replicating this fully integrated agro-industrial model within Nigeria specifically along strategic coastal trade corridors like Badagry would yield massive, multi-sectoral economic benefits for the nation.

He outlined several key advantages of bringing the GDIZ framework to Nigerian soil: 

Lower Production & Import Costs:  Domestic manufacturing hubs would drastically reduce foreign exchange pressure, eliminating the heavy freight and international travel costs currently incurred by traders journeying to Asia from major commercial markets in Oshodi, Idumota, Onitsha, and Kano.

Agricultural Empowerment & Employment: Direct off-take agreements would guarantee stable incomes for local farmers while generating tens of thousands of skilled manufacturing and technical jobs for Nigerian youths.

Regional Trade Dominance: Localized processing of raw materials ensures value addition remains within Nigerian borders, effectively positioning the nation as West Africa’s primary manufacturing and export hub.

The Federal Government's proactive approach to studying regional best practices aligns with broader economic recovery goals. By pairing strong policy leadership with strategic infrastructure investments in key border and coastal regions like Badagry, Nigeria stands on the precipice of driving Africa’s next major industrial leap.

“The steps being taken by the Federal Government to study and adapt regional best practices provide a clear roadmap for economic recovery,” Awhanse noted. “By combining strong policy leadership with strategic infrastructure in key locations like Badagry, Nigeria is well-positioned to drive Africa’s next industrial leap.”

SGF Backs ACPN's War Against Fake Drugs, Confirms Attendance at "Unity 2026" Conference

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, has called for a intensified nationwide crackdown on counterfeit medicines, urging the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) to forge a tighter alliance with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to purge fake drugs from the nation's supply chain.

Senator Akume made the call in Abuja while receiving the national leadership of the ACPN, led by its National Chairman, Pharm. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh. During the courtesy visit, the delegation formally invited the SGF to serve as the Special Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony of the ACPN’s upcoming 45th Annual International Scientific Conference, tagged “Unity 2026”.

The high-profile conference, themed "From Local Pharmacy Practice to Global Impact: Managing Complex Political Systems," is scheduled to hold at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Praising community pharmacists as irreplaceable pillars of the Nigerian healthcare architecture, Senator Akume emphasized that their strategic grassroots presence places them at the forefront of the battle against substandard pharmaceuticals.

"The menace of fake drugs continues to pose a serious danger to the health and well-being of Nigerians," the SGF warned. "You must join hands with NAFDAC in checking this menace because it is a responsibility that demands the support of all of us. While NAFDAC is doing a great deal, it also requires the active collaboration of professional bodies such as the ACPN."

The SGF's remarks align with NAFDAC’s aggressive ongoing enforcement maneuvers, including specialized task forces deployed to dismantle illicit drug markets and curb sub-standard distribution networks. He noted that community pharmacists are uniquely positioned to intercept fake medications before they reach vulnerable citizens.

Shifting focus to industrial independence, Senator Akume challenged Nigerian pharmaceutical professionals to leverage international partnerships and technical exchanges to boost domestic drug manufacturing. Citing successful models from comparative African nations like Uganda, he stressed the urgency of scaling up local production capacity.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s dedication to sweeping health sector reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s *Renewed Hope Agenda*, the SGF assured the delegation of sustained administrative backing for policies prioritizing public health safety and universal health coverage (UHC).

In his remarks, ACPN National Chairman Pharm. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh explained that the annual flagship conference will convene policymakers, regulators, international experts, and industry leaders to map out the future of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

Pharm. Ezeh noted that modern community pharmacy practice has evolved far beyond traditional drug dispensing, with practitioners acting as critical primary healthcare providers integral to disease prevention and medicine safety.

"Our community pharmacists are committed to strengthening strategic collaboration with NAFDAC and other regulatory bodies to safeguard public health and eliminate counterfeit products," Ezeh affirmed.

Iworo Ajido Model College 2000–2005 Set Hosts Annual Quiz Competition

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The 2000–2005 Set of the Iworo Ajido Model College Old Students Association (IAMCOSA) successfully hosted its highly anticipated Annual Quiz Competition. The event took place on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the school's assembly hall in Badagry, drawing enthusiastic participation from students across both junior (JSS 1–2) and senior (SSS 1–2) secondary sections.

Designed to stimulate critical thinking and encourage a deep-seated passion for learning, the academic contest provided a platform for students to showcase their knowledge across various subject areas.

Speaking on behalf of the organizing set, the Chairman of the 2000–2005 Set, Mr. Lamidi Bisiriyu Akweyon, who was represented by the Secretary, Mr. Whesu Mawuyon Monday, reaffirmed the alumni's dedication to supporting their roots.

"We remain deeply committed to giving back to our alma mater through educational and developmental initiatives that positively impact students and the school community," the set's leadership noted, emphasizing the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders.

The event enjoyed robust support from the national body of the association. The National Executive Council of IAMCOSA was ably represented by the Vice President, Dr. Avoseh Nudewhenu Opeyemi, alongside the 2nd Vice President, Mrs. Margaret Hennu.

Other notable members of the 2000–2005 Set who graced the occasion and ensured its seamless execution included Mr. Oyekan Raheem, Mr. Saka Lateef, Mrs. Olori Temitope Ogabi, Mr. Issa Emmanuel Mautin, Mr. Medego George Medego, Mr. Sanni Sindiku Sedowhe, and Mr. Sharafa.

The competition was fiercely contested, with students displaying impressive intellectual capacity, confidence, and sportsmanship. At the conclusion of the rounds, outstanding participants who clinched top positions were rewarded with educational materials, books, and special prizes to celebrate their academic prowess.

Teachers, school management, and community guests heaped praises on the alumni set for their continuous investment in the students. They lauded the initiative as a powerful catalyst for inspiring healthy academic competition and improving overall learning outcomes in the school.

The programme concluded with the presentation of commemorative souvenirs to teachers and heartfelt expressions of gratitude to donors and supporters whose generous contributions made the event a resounding success.

The IAMCOSA 2000–2005 Set has assured stakeholders that the annual quiz competition will remain a permanent fixture on their calendar, as they continue to explore new ways to strengthen the bond between the alumni network and Iworo Ajido Model College.

Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8: A New Era of Agentic AI and Foldable Innovation

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Fold8, Ultra.

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – Samsung Electronics has officially redefined the mobile landscape with the worldwide unveiling of its next-generation foldable ecosystem. Introduced on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, the new lineup features three distinct devices: the productivity-focused Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, the immersive and lightweight Galaxy Z Fold8, and the sleek, AI-native Galaxy Z Flip8.

Built on seven generations of consumer insight and foldable engineering, the new series integrates advanced hardware enhancements with deeply optimized Galaxy AI, setting a high benchmark for mobile productivity, creativity, and self-expression.

Expanding the Foldable Horizon

Speaking on the launch, TM Roh, Chief Executive Officer and Head of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics, emphasized the evolving role of smartphones in an AI-driven world.

"As AI becomes more agentic, mobile devices will become the most personal entry point to experiences that understand and adapt to each user," said TM Roh. "By setting a new standard for foldables, we are once again advancing the premium mobile experience and opening the next era of intelligence to more people."

Galaxy Z Fold8: Designed for Everyday Immersion

Reimagined for users seeking a natural transition between quick interactions and deep media consumption, the Galaxy Z Fold8 introduces an optimized form factor. Weighing just 201 grams, it is Samsung's lightest Fold yet.

Display Engineering: Features a familiar 10:16 cover screen for messaging and browsing, expanding into an immersive 4:3 main display ideal for reading, gaming, and split-view multitasking.

Durability: Utilizes new Flex Titanium technology, combining a titanium-alloy film with an enhanced titanium plate to minimize crease visibility while keeping the device exceptionally thin.

Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy, backed by a 4,800 mAh battery and dual 50 MP cameras with advanced features like Dual Recording and My FanCam.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra: The Ultimate Productivity Powerhouse

For power users and content creators, the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra brings the highest standard of Samsung performance to a foldable canvas. Measuring just 4.1 mm thick when unfolded and weighing 215 grams, it houses a sprawling 8-inch main display.

Professional Camera System: Boasts a 200 MP main camera with HDR support, a 50 MP ultra-wide lens, enhanced Nightography, and 8K video recording via the new APV codec.

All-Day Power: Equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery, dual-path 45W fast charging, and an expanded graphite cooling structure to handle heavy AI workflows and professional workloads seamlessly.

Galaxy Z Flip8: The Sleekest AI-Native Flip

Built for expression and quick, on-the-go interaction, the Galaxy Z Flip8 weighs 180 grams and measures 6.1 mm thin. It features a reimagined AI-native FlexWindow powered by Now Brief for glanceable insights, alongside a 50 MP ProVisual Engine camera system optimized for hands-free FlexCam selfies and advanced stability controls like Super Steady with Horizontal Lock.

Advanced Galaxy AI and Robust Security

Across the entire lineup, Galaxy AI introduces proactive capabilities like Now Nudge to automate daily workflows and deeper integration with Gemini Intelligence across more than 40 apps.

Security is anchored by Samsung Knox, featuring the Personal Data Engine (PDE), Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP), and a physical Knox Vault layer. The new One UI 9 also introduces an AI Assistant Activity dashboard and proactive Privacy Alerts to keep users firmly in control of their data.

Availability and Launch Offers

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, and Flip8 are available for pre-order in select markets starting today, July 22, 2026. Available colors include standard shades like Graphite and Cream, alongside market-exclusive variants such as Violet Shadow, Pink, and Pistachio. Buyers will also receive a complimentary 6-month trial of Google AI Pro, which includes 5 TB of cloud storage.

ATPN South West Unveils Committee Chairmen for SWITEX 2026 Ahead of Ogun State Mega Expo

By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE – As preparations gather momentum for the 2nd South West International Tourism Expo (SWITEX 2026), the Office of the National Vice President, Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) South West Region, has officially announced the appointment of committee chairmen for the forthcoming event.

Scheduled to take place from December 4th to 5th, 2026, in the historic city of Abeokuta, Ogun State, SWITEX 2026 aims to position South West Nigeria as a premier hub for cultural heritage, tourism investment, and economic collaboration.

The announcement was made public on Wednesday through an official statement signed by the National Vice President of ATPN South West Region, Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon. Following extensive regional consultations, a roster of distinguished tourism professionals and stakeholders has been tapped to drive the various functional committees.

The newly appointed chairmen tasked with steering the operational committees include:

SWITEX Corporate and Sponsorship Engagement Committee: Olori Temitope Oloko (Chairman)

SWITEX Welfare Committee: Alhaja Akinreti (Chairperson)

SWITEX Rail and Rock Tour Committee: Mr. Phil Idowu Ebegbune & Mr. Akinsola Samuel (Co-Chairmen)

SWITEX Delegate Services Committee: Prince Toyon Samson (Chairman)

SWITEX Publicity and Content Creation Committee: Omo'ba Abiola Ogundeko (Chairman)

SWITEX Expatriates Community Engagement and Partnership Committee: Amb. Diwesh Mishra (Chairman)

SWITEX Vendors and Exhibitors Engagement Committee: Otunba Musiliu Olufemi Oladeinde (Chairman)

In addition to announcing the leadership lineup, the ATPN South West secretariat revealed that the official theme for SWITEX 2026, alongside the comprehensive list of all committee members, will be unveiled to the public on Friday, July 24, 2026.

Speaking on the appointments, Hon. Apata emphasized that the selection reflects the association's core values of excellence, inclusivity, and professionalism.

“The committee leadership has been carefully constituted to harness the wealth of experience, expertise, and passion of distinguished tourism practitioners and stakeholders across the region,” Hon. Apata stated. He further urged the newly appointed chairmen to hit the ground running with preliminary engagements ahead of their formal inaugurations.

Macfoy Leads APC Reconciliation Push in Badagry, Calls for Forgiveness among Members

By: Manoah Kikekon 

 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In an effort to solidify its political dominance ahead of the 2027 general elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State Reconciliation Committee has charged party stakeholders in the Badagry Federation to embrace forgiveness, unity, and unwavering loyalty.

Led by its Chairman, Alhaj S. Alabi Macfoy, the state reconciliation team made the passionate appeal during a high-profile stakeholders' meeting held on Tuesday inside the Badagry Local Government Council Chamber. The gathering forms a vital part of the party’s broader, statewide strategy to mend internal fractures stemming from recent party primaries and internal selection processes.

Addressing the packed assembly of party chieftains, elected officials, and grassroots members, Macfoy stressed that true political commitment must transcend individual ambitions or the outcome of primary contests. He noted that the committee was deployed by the state leadership to engage aggrieved members, rebuild trust, and foster absolute cohesion across every chapter in Lagos.

"True party loyalty is demonstrated through continued support for the APC irrespective of individual political fortunes," Macfoy stated, adding that the reconciliation drive will persist until every concerned member is fully integrated back into the fold. He also lauded the impressive turnout, describing it as a testament to Badagry's enduring dedication to the progressive movement.

Echoing these sentiments, committee member Chief Mrs. Hon. Teju Philips urged stakeholders to accept internal democratic outcomes in good faith. She specifically charged members to ramp up grassroots mobilization while calling for deeper political inclusion for women, whom she described as critical anchors of the party’s electoral victories.

Earlier in the proceedings, the Badagry Local Government APC Chairman, Hon. Muritala Gafari Meyon, revealed that local mediation efforts had already been set in motion prior to the state committee's arrival. He highlighted the inauguration of a 16-member Badagry Federation Reconciliation Committee headed by respected party stalwart Alhaj Abu Akilapa designed to fast-track peace-building across the region.

In what many described as the high point of the meeting, former aspirants who competed in the recent party primaries stepped forward to publicly endorse the party's candidates for the House of Representatives and the Lagos State House of Assembly. The unified front was greeted with thunderous applause, signaling a decisive shift toward collective campaigning.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Badagry Local Government Executive Chairman Hon. Babatunde Hunpe expressed profound appreciation to the state reconciliation team for bringing their peace mission to the coastal city.

"We are fully committed to sustaining unity, reconciliation, and aggressive grassroots mobilization as we prepare for the 2027 general elections," Hunpe assured.

The meeting drew a powerful delegation of state committee members, including the committee secretary, Barr. Debire Ladigbolu, Hon. Remi Sotilahan, and Assistant Financial Secretary Evangelist Olaleye Funke. They were joined by apex leaders, the three council chairmen of the Badagry Federation, legislative office holders, and vibrant youth and women leaders all leaving the chamber with a shared resolve to secure a resounding victory come 2027.