Badagry Customs Intercepts N365M Worth of Expired Noodles, Explosives, and Contraband

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, NIGERIA — In a blow to cross-border smuggling syndicates, operatives of the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have intercepted a massive haul of contraband goods valued at an estimated N365.16 million.

The staggering seizure highlighted by 1,306 bags of decomposing, expired noodles and 3,300 live cartridges of explosive materials underscores the relentless security threats facing Nigeria’s transit corridors and the vigilant stance of national border authorities.

The breakthrough was officially announced by the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the command, Comptroller Abdullahi Kaila, during a high-profile press briefing held at the command headquarters in Seme, Badagry.

Detailing the operations, Comptroller Kaila revealed that the monumental seizures were the direct result of proactive, intelligence-driven anti-smuggling tactics designed to choke off illicit supply chains before harmful goods could infiltrate domestic markets.

Among the most alarming discoveries was a cargo truck that attempted to bypass security under a fraudulent manifest.

"The expired noodles were discovered in a truck that had been deceptively declared as carrying legitimate food items," Comptroller Kaila stated.

"Upon physical examination, our officers found 1,306 sacks of expired and waste noodles, each weighing 50 kilogrammes, with some already deteriorated, infested, and visibly decomposing."

Health experts have repeatedly warned that the consumption of such expired food waste poses severe public health risks, ranging from acute food poisoning to long-term organ damage.

Equally concerning was the interception of 3,300 cartridges of explosive materials, which posed an immediate and catastrophic threat to national security. Confirming the handoff, Kaila noted that the dangerous ordnance had been immediately transferred to the Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit for secure custody and a comprehensive forensic investigation.

Beyond the hazardous food and explosives, the Seme Area Command's comprehensive sweep netted a wide array of prohibited and regulated items destined for illegal distribution. The inventory includes: 1,268 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 373 parcels of illicit Cannabis Sativa, 90 packs of Tramaking (250mg) 69 packs of Royal Tapentadol (250mg), 310,000 sticks of Time and Yes cigarettes.

Comptroller Kaila emphasized that these aggressive operations reflect the command’s unyielding commitment to safeguarding public health, protecting citizens from dangerous consumables, and defending the nation's territorial integrity.

"These seizures demonstrate the command’s unwavering commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders, protecting public health, and preventing prohibited and dangerous items from gaining entry into the country," Kaila affirmed.

In tandem with its stringent anti-smuggling triumphs, the Seme Command also posted impressive financial milestones. Kaila revealed that the command generated N19.84 billion in revenue during the review period, marking a significant surge compared to the N15.94 billion recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.

He credited this revenue growth to heightened compliance enforcement, robust intelligence-led operations, and a collaborative ethos among sister security and regulatory agencies.

In accordance with the statutory provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, all intercepted consignments and seized non-hazardous goods have been handed over to relevant regulatory and law enforcement partners for appropriate legal action and disposal.

500 Senior Citizens Benefits Badagry LGA Chairman Hunpe’s Renewed Hope Ounje Arugbo

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — Hon. Babatunde Hunpe,  The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, has officially flagged off the pilot phase of the Renewed Hope Ounje Arugbo programme. The initiative brought joy to 500 senior citizens drawn from various wards across the local government area, who received vital food palliatives.

Launched on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat, the social intervention scheme forms a core component of the administration’s Greater Badagry Rising Agenda. Designed to directly target elderly residents, the programme reinforces grassroots support and honors senior citizens for their lifelong contributions to society.

Addressing the gathering, Hunpe emphasized that compassionate leadership must actively look out for society’s most vulnerable populations. He noted that the initiative also aligns with the celebration of his administration’s one year in office.

"We have promised our people, both young and old this programme is not the first one we are doing, but we have to add it to our celebration of one year in office. This is not the end of it; we only started with the elderly who can walk. After this, we are still going to the residences of those who cannot come here to deliver the palliatives to them at home. After this, the widows are the next, and after that, we are going to do the general one for everybody," Hunpe, said.

The Chairman further highlighted ongoing monthly empowerment efforts by his administration, "We do programmes every month. We promised that we are going to empower 4,000 people within 20 months that happens every month. For those that need it, we empower 200 people with ₦100,000 every month. We want the elderly to live comfortably; that is why we created an office for them."

Reiterating the administration's inclusive approach, Hon. Hunpe assured residents that subsequent phases will be expansive, capturing diverse communities including Arewa, Igbo, and South-South residents living within Badagry. Additional social packages targeting widows and vulnerable groups are also in the pipeline.

Corroborating the Chairman’s vision, the Council Manager, Avoseh Akwe Senami Oluwakemi, praised the leadership’s dedication to neglected demographics.

"This administration believes that the elderly do not have a voice, and in most programmes people do, they are being neglected and forgotten. The Executive Chairman has the elderly at heart. In fact, we just finished a one-week medical outreach where he said the elderly should be given priority.

"Through the supervisor for elderly, we will register them so we can celebrate them, mark their birthdays, take them out, and we are planning a big programme for them towards December. We are also planning to register them for health insurance so they would be able to access free healthcare."

Alhaja Risikat Padonu Hassan, The Supervisor for Senior Citizens and Social Services, commended the Chairman for pioneering such a thoughtful welfare scheme. Detailing the contents of the relief packages, she remarked:

"I commend the chairman for this, as it is the first of its kind. In this bag, we have rice, garri, semovita, beans, and vegetable oil. We can't reach out to everyone at the same time; after this batch, another one is coming so we can reach out to more people."

Samuel Mautin Oni a beneficiary, "We the retirees are very grateful for this coming from the Chairman. This will assist us, as poverty is a serious challenge currently in the country."

The Renewed Hope Ounje Arugbo stands as a shining testament to proactive local governance, setting a high standard for elderly care, social security, and grassroots community development in Lagos State.

CYI holds Maiden Edition of Evening Idea Circle

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Centre for Youths Integrated Development (CYID) successfully launched the inaugural edition of the CYID Evening Idea Circle on August 14, 2026, at the CYID Youth and Migration Resource Centre in Badagry.

Designed as an energetic and highly interactive space, the maiden event brought together vibrant minds to collaborate, share innovative concepts, and tackle pressing socio-economic challenges, with a strong focus on Badagry’s booming tourism ecosystem.

Breaking Free from the "Rat Race"

Anchored by Mr. Victor Aihawu, Director of the Centre, the session kicked off with a compelling wake-up call on modern productivity and mindset shifts.

Aihawu warned participants against falling into the exhausting trap of the modern "Rat Race," noting that it poses severe adverse effects on personal businesses and long-term futures. He further highlighted a growing societal concern:

"Poverty today has become a lifestyle as most people become so comfortable with the little they are doing, some not seeing the need to learn more."

The discussion challenged attendees to step out of their comfort zones, embrace continuous learning, and pursue sustainable growth.

From Dialogue to Action: The Badagry Adventure Picnic

Staying true to its motto "Think. Share. Take Action" the Evening Idea Circle went beyond conventional roundtable discussions. The brainstorming session culminated in a concrete, actionable initiative: a pilot three-day unusual, unceremonial adventure picnic.

Curated around exploration, deep connection, and fresh discovery, this upcoming experience promises a revolutionary way to experience and appreciate Badagry's rich cultural and historical landscape.

The session was jointly facilitated by Mr. Victor Aihawu – Director, CYID and Sesede Simeon – Area Representative (West Africa), World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA)

Their combined expertise provided participants with invaluable global perspectives on tourism development, youth empowerment, and community-led innovation.

Described by attendees as spontaneous, engaging, and unforgettable, the maiden edition of the CYID Evening Idea Circle successfully fulfilled its core mission: bridging the gap between dynamic conversations and practical execution.

As CYID continues to pave the way for youth development and tourism in Badagry, stakeholders and participants eagerly anticipate the rollout of the pilot adventure picnic and future editions of the Idea Circle.

Think. Share. Take Action.

Outrage in Badagry as Nigeria Army Brutalises Food Vendor Over Delayed Meal

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE — Taiwo Hannah Zannu, a local food vendor at Oloroko along the Badagry-Seme Expressway, has been brutally assaulted by Cop. Joseph a soldier from 15 Field Engineer Regiment (Topo Barracks) attached to the Nigeria Customs, Seme border checkpoint at Oloko.

The incident, which occurred around 6:30 AM on Saturday, August 15, 2026, stems from a petty dispute over a food order at the Oloko Customs checkpoint.

According to Mrs. Zannu, the conflict began on the preceding Tuesday when one of the soldiers visited her shop to purchase beans. Upon discovering the food was not yet ready, the soldier confronted the vendor, questioning why she failed to open her shop as early as 3:00 AM a demand she noted was entirely unreasonable.

Reacted News: 

Customs, Soldiers brutalizes Badagry residents over video recording

When the soldier subsequently requested two eggs, an argument ensued after he began hurling insults at a member of her staff. Although bystanders intervened and managed to defuse the situation at the time, the soldier allegedly vowed to retaliate against Mrs. Zannu at the next opportunity.

The threats materialized on Saturday morning. Speaking with News Peddlers, Mrs. Zannu recounted how the ordeal unfolded

"This morning at about 6:00 AM, upon getting to my shop, I saw people gathered and talking. I asked what happened, and they said the soldier hit my staff on the head, threatening to deal with me. I then told my staff to follow me to the checkpoint to discuss with the Customs officers stationed there.

"On getting to the checkpoint, before I could say a word, the soldier sighted me, brought out a belt, and started beating me. His colleague joined in, while the Customs officers simply stood by and watched. In the process they took my phone, necklaces and all the money in my bag. It was the commuters in the area who rushed out to rescue me."

Following the attack, the victim visited Topo Barracks to formally report the incident. However, she stated that authorities merely took her statement and instructed her to leave. 

Mrs. Zannu disclosed that she has incurred medical bills exceeding N200,000 for her treatment and is urgently appealing to Nigerians for justice.

The Oloko Customs checkpoint previously designated as an illegal checkpoint by a former Customs Comptroller has a notorious reputation for human rights abuses against Badagry residents.

A notable prior incident occurred on December 1, 2024, when two transporters were assaulted at the exact same location merely for attempting to record a video to update their customers on their travel location.

As of the time of filing this report, all attempts to reach the 15 Field Engineer Regiment for official comments and reactions have been unsuccessful.

#OsunElection2026: Tension in Osun as Armed Operatives Seal Off State Assembly Speaker's Residence

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

OSOGBO, Nigeria — Security tensions flared on election morning in Osun State as the Imole Campaign Council (TICC) raised an urgent alarm regarding the heavy deployment of armed security personnel around the private residence of the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun.

According to official statements released by TICC spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbesi, Esq., a convoy of more than 10 black Hilux vans carrying heavily armed operatives descended upon the Speaker's compound, effectively locking down the premises and barring all occupants from exiting.

While details surrounding the operation remain fluid, the campaign council emphasized that the exact motives behind the heavy deployment have not yet been independently verified. Whether the armed personnel were dispatched to reinforce security or to execute official directives remains shrouded in uncertainty.

In a formal statement, the council voiced deep concern over the timing of the incident on a crucial election day:

"We have received reports that the residence of the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, has been surrounded by armed security personnel who reportedly arrived in more than 10 black Hilux vehicles... We have also been informed that the residence has effectively been sealed off, with everyone inside reportedly prevented from leaving the premises."

Efforts by the TICC leadership to secure immediate clarification from law enforcement authorities hit a brick wall. The council reported that multiple phone calls placed to the official mobile lines of the Commissioner of Police assigned to oversee the election and the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the poll went unanswered. Furthermore, attempts to contact the official Police Situation Room proved abortive, as the designated telephone line was reportedly switched off.

Expressing apprehension over the radio silence from security chiefs, the council underscored the critical need for a transparent and intimidation-free electoral atmosphere across Osun State:

"On this Election Day, the people of Osun State deserve an atmosphere free from fear and intimidation. Security deployments must inspire confidence and protect the integrity of the electoral process."

As voters head to the polls, the campaign council has urged higher security authorities to issue a prompt public statement clarifying the lockdown. TICC maintained that the democratic rights of citizens must be preserved without interference, coercion, or undue pressure.

"The people of Osun State must be allowed to come out peacefully and decide their future according to their own conscience, without intimidation or interference," the council reiterated.

Pharma Sector Eyes 70% Local Production Target, Urges FG to Slash Energy Costs

By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, Nigeria — The Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) has issued a vital call to action for the Federal Government. Industry leaders stress that unlocking Nigeria's full medicine security and achieving a 70% local production target hinges heavily on lowering soaring energy costs, streamlining port clearance, and strengthening active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) policies.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos ahead of the upcoming 8th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers’ Expo (NPME 2026), representatives underscored the urgent need for a competitive, investment-friendly ecosystem to drive sustainable growth across the nation's healthcare sector.

While celebrating monumental strides in domestic manufacturing highlighted by a sharp drop in imported finished pharmaceuticals from 4.03 billion units down to 1.13 billion units by 2025, according to NAFDAC data industry heads cautioned that operational bottlenecks continue to stifle potential.

"High energy costs and delayed clearance of pharma inputs remain a major threat to the competitiveness of local manufacturers," stated Pharm. Frank Muonemeh, Executive Secretary and CEO of PMG-MAN.

Muonemeh pointed out that local companies currently hemorrhage over 40% of their revenue on electricity and alternative power generation. In stark contrast, global competitors in manufacturing hubs like China and India spend less than 10% on energy, heavily disadvantaging Nigerian producers in regional and international markets.

To level the playing field, the group is urging the government to introduce targeted interventions, such as dedicated industrial energy tariffs, alongside robust policies backing the localized production of APIs and essential raw materials.

To cement recent gains and draw long-term foreign and domestic investments, PMG-MAN made a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. The association is pressing for the current two-year Presidential Executive Order supporting the pharmaceutical sector to be extended into a five-year framework.

According to leadership, predictable, long-term policy stability is non-negotiable for capital-intensive life science investments and advanced technology acquisition.

Representing the PMG-MAN Chairman and CEO of Daily-Need Industries Limited, Mr. Oluwatosin Jolayemi, the Chairman of the Exhibition Planning Committee and MD/CEO of May & Baker Nigeria Plc, Dr. Patrick Ajah, emphasized the sector's remarkable evolution.

"The sector has grown from 20 pioneer members in 1983 to more than 200 manufacturing companies, and remains firmly committed to reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported medicines," Ajah affirmed.

The momentum for domestic self-sufficiency will take center stage at the 8th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers’ Expo (NPME 2026), slated for September 28 and 29 at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos

Carrying the theme, “Regional Manufacturing: Advancing Africa’s Pharma and Life Science Sovereignty through Localisation,” the flagship event will convene over 200 exhibitors and nearly 10,000 industry professionals.

Geneith Health Competition Mobilises Nigerian Youth for a Malaria-Free Future on International Youth Day 2026

 By: Manoah Kikekon

ABUJA, Nigeria — As the global community marks International Youth Day 2026 under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” the Geneith Health Competition (GHC) has successfully mobilized Nigerian students nationwide to take a vanguard role in eradicating malaria.

The nationwide initiative received a massive boost as higher institutions—including Ekiti State University (EKSU) and Sahlan College of Health Science and Technology, Jos—formally committed to the campaign. With an unprecedented ₦1 billion prize pool at stake, the competition is bridging education and public health advocacy across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The GHC initiator and CEOAFRICA Managing Director, **Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, alongside the Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, **Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, extended warm felicitations to Nigerian youths. They emphasized that despite diverse socio-economic backgrounds, young Nigerians share a unified drive for wellness, quality education, and national prosperity.

"Young Nigerians, regardless of their backgrounds, share common aspirations for good health, quality education, meaningful participation, and a prosperous future. Malaria remains a major threat to these goals, and our youths have what it takes to turn the tide," Prince Ilobanafor stated.

Organisers noted that student participation has surged exponentially. Youths are increasingly stepping up as Malaria Ambassadors, driving grassroots awareness, digital health campaigns, and community sanitation initiatives to combat the disease at its roots.

The campaign's momentum reached a fever pitch as major tertiary institutions threw their weight behind the contest ahead of the October 30 registration deadline.

At Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, officially approved student participation, urging undergraduates to leverage the platform to showcase their intellect and compete for top academic prizes. Similarly, management at Sahlan College of Health Science and Technology, Jos, expressed unwavering institutional commitment, preparing their student body to make a profound impact in public health advocacy.

Chief Emmanuel Umenwa of Geneith Pharmaceuticals underscored that empowering the younger generation with health literacy and educational backing is a non-negotiable step toward a thriving nation.

Organised by CEOAFRICA, proudly sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals, and powered by *Coatal Forte Softgel*, the GHC offers a life-changing ₦1 billion cumulative prize pool**. The rewards encompass cash awards, educational scholarships, professional training, and learning materials spanning:

Junior Secondary Category,  Senior Secondary Category, Tertiary Institution Category

The competition roadmap kicks off with a virtual preliminary examination. The top 50 qualifiers from each state will subsequently advance to live public-health quizzes, regional face-offs, and the ultimate national grand finale.

Eligible students across the country are encouraged to sign up before the October 30 deadline by visiting the official portal at [www.geneithhealthcompetition.com](https://www.geneithhealthcompetition.com).