"Give to Gain" Summit Challenges Lagos Women to Redefine Leadership through Service

 By: Manoah Kikekon

IBA, OJO — LAGOS – In an era where success is frequently equated with personal accumulation and individual status, a transformative gathering of women in the Iba area of Ojo, Lagos, has proposed a radical shift in perspective. The International Women’s Day 2026 Summit, hosted by Deborah International Outreach, delivered a resounding message: the most potent form of leadership is rooted in the philosophy of "Giving to Gain."

The summit, held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, served as a high-impact forum for women across various professional and social strata. Organized to commemorate the global International Women’s Day season, the event focused on the premise that true influence is not seized, but earned through consistent service, mentorship, and community investment.

The convener of the summit, Bunmi Onilude, a respected advocate for female empowerment, opened the event with a stirring call to action. She challenged the participants to look beyond the immediate rewards of their careers and businesses, urging them instead to consider the long-term legacy of their contributions to society.

According to Mrs. Onilude, the "Give to Gain" theme is not merely a catchy slogan but a strategic approach to life and leadership. She emphasized that when women give whether it be their time, their expertise, or their resources they are essentially planting seeds for a future characterized by loyalty, influence, and collective prosperity.

The summit addressed a critical gap in modern leadership training: the "Otherish" approach to support. Speakers argued that the traditional "winner-takes-all" mentality is becoming obsolete in a world that increasingly values collaboration and social responsibility.

"Giving is an investment that yields gains such as loyalty, support, and influence," Onilude stated during her keynote address. She noted that women who prioritize uplifting others often find themselves naturally elevated to positions of greater authority and respect within their communities.

A significant portion of the summit was dedicated to the importance of mentorship. Notable women leaders who joined the convener on stage shared personal anecdotes of how their willingness to mentor younger colleagues had eventually opened doors for their own advancement.

The speakers stressed that the future of Lagos and Nigeria at large depends on a generation of women who are willing to "pay it forward." By investing in the development of younger women today, the participants were told they are securing a more stable and responsible society for the generations to follow.

The summit moved beyond theoretical concepts, offering practical advice on how women can lead within their specific spheres of influence. Whether in the boardroom, the marketplace, or the home, attendees were encouraged to use their unique voices to advocate for positive change.

"You are not just individuals pursuing a paycheck," one speaker noted. "You are catalysts of change. Your smallest act of compassion can be the spark that inspires hope in a neighbor or a colleague." This focus on "micro-leadership" resonated with many attendees who felt empowered to start making changes in their immediate environments.

The event also highlighted the socio-economic benefits of female-led generosity. When women lead with a heart for service, the ripple effect is felt in improved community health, better educational outcomes for children, and more resilient local economies.

The participants were urged to see their businesses and careers not just as means of survival, but as platforms for community building. By integrating service into their professional lives, the women of Ojo are positioning themselves as the backbone of a "Greater Lagos" vision.

As the summit progressed, the atmosphere in Iba shifted from one of quiet reflection to vibrant energy. Many participants expressed that they had arrived at the event feeling burnt out by the pressures of modern life, but were leaving with a renewed sense of purpose.

"This summit has reminded me that my value isn't just in what I achieve, but in who I help," said one participant during a breakout session. This sentiment was echoed by many, who saw the "Give to Gain" philosophy as a remedy for the isolation and competition that often characterize the professional world.

As the world continues to celebrate the achievements of women this March, the gathering in Lagos stood out for its focus on character-based leadership. While other events focused on policy or technology, the Deborah International Outreach summit went back to the basics of human connection and ethics.

The event served as a poignant reminder that empowered women remain the most powerful force for societal transformation. When that power is channeled through the lens of generosity, the potential for growth is limitless.

The summit concluded with a clear summary of the "Gains" mentioned in the theme. These include: Loyalty: People are more likely to support leaders who have invested in them.

Influence: Authority is more effectively exercised when it is backed by a track record of service.

Legacy: True success is measured by the number of lives a leader has positively impacted.

Federal High Court Halts LAMATA’s Planned Demolition in Okokomaiko for Blue Line Depot

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAMATA and Court used to illustrate the story 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Federal High Court in Lagos has delivered a landmark ruling, granting an interim injunction to stop the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) from demolishing residential properties in the Okokomaiko area. 

The court order provides a massive sigh of relief for hundreds of families whose homes were slated for destruction to make way for the proposed Blue Line Train Depot.

Presiding Judge, Hon. Justice Musa Kakaki**, issued the order on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in response to Suit No: FHC/L/MISC/52/2026. 

The injunction effectively freezes all demolition, eviction, and acquisition activities by the state government and its agencies pending the final determination of the originating summons.

The court order specifically protects residents and properties located at Church Estate 1, Church Estate 2, Jubilee Estate, and the Igbeyin-Adun Community in the Ojo Local Government Area. The injunction restrains LAMATA, its agents, and officials from "invading, demolishing, pillaging, or vandalizing" the applicants' houses.

Beyond stopping the bulldozers, the court also granted an order of interim injunction restraining the respondents from any compulsory acquisition or taking possession of any interest in the applicants' lands and immovable properties. This move safeguards the residents' proprietary rights while the legal battle continues.

Justice Kakaki extended the injunction to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police and all police officers attached to various formations. The court strictly forbade the police from "partaking, supervising, or providing any support or protection" to LAMATA officials for the purpose of eviction or demolition in the affected communities.

The enrollment of the court order, signed by Mrs. Okoro, Principal Executive Officer of the Federal High Court Ikoyi, ensures that law enforcement cannot be used as a tool to bypass the judicial process. This directive aims to prevent the often-forceful nature of state-led evictions in Lagos.

Despite the court’s intervention, a fresh wave of controversy has erupted following a publication on LAMATA’s official website on March 12, 2026. The agency announced it had commenced payment of "relocation assistance" to tenants affected by the acquisition. LAMATA officials Mrs. Ibironke Omorhirhi and Mr. Ayodipupo Quadri are reportedly monitoring the exercise to ensure transparency.

However, property owners have raised an alarm over this strategy. Landlords in the four affected estates argue that LAMATA is "compensating" tenants without the consent of the actual property owners. They contend that focusing on tenants is a tactical move to weaken the community’s collective resistance while the landlords’ grievances remain unaddressed.

The core of the dispute lies in the valuation of the properties. Property owners allege that their homes have not been given a realistic "like-for-like" valuation that would allow them to replicate their houses in comparable areas of Lagos.

"We have not been shown what values have been assigned as possible compensation," one resident stated. "How can LAMATA initiate payments when we don't even know if the projected sum is adequate? Why the rush for arbitrary demolition when the current designated train depot area still lies fallow and undeveloped?"

The applicants were represented by Femi Dodo, Esq., who moved the motion ex-parte on behalf of the residents. The lead affidavit was sworn to by Mr. Iniobong Edem Offiong, a retiree and resident of Igbehin Adun Community, who highlighted the extreme urgency of the situation.

The court has granted leave for the applicants to serve the injunction and originating summons on LAMATA at its Ketu-Ojota office and on the Commissioner of Police at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja. As the legal tug-of-war intensifies, the residents of Okokomaiko remain vigilant, holding onto the court's protection as their last line of defense against homelessness.

Lagos Government Partners with CSOnetMADE to Revolutionize Migration Governance

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

IKEJA, LAGOS – In a strategic move to address the complexities of human mobility and social welfare, the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development has opened a new chapter of collaboration with the Civil Society Network on Migration and Development (CSOnetMADE), Southwest Zone.

The high-level meeting, held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the state secretariat, saw the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, receive a high-powered delegation from the network. The visit is part of a broader effort to synchronize government policies with grassroots civil society interventions.

During the engagement, the dialogue centered on creating a more inclusive framework for migration governance. Hon. Ogunlende emphasized that migration is not just a federal issue but a local one that deeply affects the social fabric of Lagos. Both parties explored how to improve the participation of non-state actors in the formulation of migration-related policies.

The Commissioner noted that the expertise of civil society is crucial in navigating the nuances of migration, ensuring that the state's approach is both data-driven and empathetic to the needs of those in transit or returning to the state.

A key pillar of the discussion was the protection of vulnerable populations, particularly youths who are often the most affected by irregular migration. The CSOnetMADE delegation highlighted the need for robust support systems for returnees and the importance of preventing human trafficking through community-based awareness.

The meeting provided a platform to exchange innovative ideas on promoting safer migration practices. By identifying the "push factors" that drive migration in Lagos communities, the Ministry and the CSO network aim to create domestic opportunities that make staying at home a more viable and attractive option for the youth.

Hon. Ogunlende lauded the role of civil society organizations as the bridge between the government and the people. He acknowledged that while the government provides the policy structure, CSOs often provide the "on-the-ground" implementation and feedback that make these programs successful.

"The important role civil society organizations play in supporting and strengthening migration-related programmes cannot be overstated," the Commissioner remarked. He noted that such partnerships are vital for ensuring that migration governance in Lagos remains humane, responsible, and well-coordinated.

The delegation from CSOnetMADE Southwest Zone expressed their commitment to supporting the Ministry’s agenda. By aligning their efforts with the state's social development goals, the network hopes to help create a more resilient environment for migrants and their families.

The Ministry expressed deep appreciation for the visit, labeling it a "valuable contribution" to the state's social development arsenal. The engagement concluded with a mutual pledge to sustain the partnership, ensuring that migration challenges are addressed through inclusive and sustainable collaboration. I

US Announces $10 Million Bounty on Iranian Leaders Amid Intensified Warfare

By: Manoah Kikekon

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran, the United States Department of State has officially placed a $10 million bounty on several high-ranking Iranian officials. The reward, issued under the Rewards for Justice Program, specifically targets individuals described as "terrorist leaders" within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Among the primary targets is Mojtaba Khamenei, the influential son of the Supreme Leader, along with other top-tier figures. The U.S. government is not only offering a life-changing financial sum but has also promised informant relocation services to whistleblowers who provide credible intelligence that leads to the disruption of IRGC operations.

The State Department’s notice, disseminated via its official social media channels, identifies a group of men accused of commanding and directing global terrorism. The list includes: 

Esmail Khatib (Minister of Intelligence),

Ali Asghar Hejazi (Deputy Chief of Staff),

Major-General Yahya Rahim Safavi,

Brigadier General Eskandar Momeni, and Ali Larijani (Secretary to the Supreme Council)

The announcement comes at a tense moment, as Ali Larijani was reportedly seen participating in Quds Day protests in Tehran just hours before the bounty was publicized, signaling a defiant stance from the Iranian leadership despite the mounting pressure.

U.S. President Donald J. Trump, speaking in the early hours of Friday, expressed a stark and controversial pride in the ongoing military campaign. Addressing the nation as the 47th President, Trump characterized the Iranian leadership as "deranged scumbags" who have spent 47 years destabilizing the globe.

"They've been killing innocent people all over the world for 47 years, and now I... am killing them. What a great honor it is to do so!" Trump posted on social media. He claimed that the Iranian military is currently being "decimated" and that several top figures have already been "wiped from the face of the earth" since the conflict intensified on February 28, 2026.

President Trump also took aim at media coverage of the war, suggesting that some reports have failed to capture the extent of U.S. and Israeli military dominance. He warned that skeptical coverage might lead the public to "incorrectly think that we are not winning," while insisting that Iran’s armed forces are suffering catastrophic losses.

The President’s rhetoric suggests an uncompromising stance, with no current room for diplomatic de-escalation. His posts on Truth Social warned of "unparalleled firepower" and "unlimited ammunition," advising the world to "watch what happens" as military operations continue.

Adding to the President’s warnings, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Friday would see a massive surge in aerial operations. Speaking at a press conference, Hegseth described the planned strikes as the highest volume of bombardment since the war began.

"Today will be yet again, the highest volume of strikes that America has put over the skies of Iran and Tehran," Hegseth stated. This strategic shift toward maximum pressure indicates a goal of total air superiority and the systematic destruction of Iranian command and control centers.

Beyond the immediate tactical goals, President Trump reiterated his long-standing opposition to Iran’s nuclear ambitions. He also highlighted the economic dimensions of the war, boasting of America's status as the world’s largest oil producer.

Trump suggested that the United States is uniquely positioned to weather the economic fallout of the conflict. He noted that if crude oil prices continue to rise due to the instability in the Middle East, the U.S. would paradoxically profit, further strengthening its wartime economy while Iran's resources are choked off.

The introduction of a $10 million bounty and the promise of relocation for whistleblowers represents a "shadow war" tactic being brought into the light. By targeting the inner circle of the Iranian regime, the U.S. is betting on internal fractures and the lure of a new life abroad to dismantle the IRGC from within. As the heaviest strikes to date begin over Tehran, the world watches to see if this combination of massive firepower and financial incentives will bring the conflict to a swift conclusion.

Passenger Injured During FRSC Enforcement Operation on Lagos-Badagry expressway

 By: Manoah Kikekon

MOWO, LAGOS – A passenger, identified as Ayelagbe Amosa, sustained deep facial lacerations after a confrontation between officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and a commercial driver on Friday morning along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

The incident occurred at the Mowo axis of the expressway during an early morning patrol. According to witnesses, the situation escalated when a commercial vehicle driver allegedly defied orders to stop for inspection, leading to a sequence of events that left a passenger bleeding profusely from broken glass shards.

Reliving the harrowing experience, the victim, Mr. Ayelagbe Amosa, explained that he was on his way to work when the FRSC team flagged down his vehicle. "The officers were stopping vehicles at Mowo. They stopped ours, but the driver did not stop," Amosa told reporters.

"In an attempt to stop the car, an officer hit the side mirror with an object. The glass shattered instantly, cutting deep into my face. It narrowly missed my eye, and I started bleeding seriously," he added, visibly shaken.

The victim further alleged that the FRSC team initially tried to absolve themselves of responsibility. Amosa claimed the officers took him to a private hospital, Olaoki, but attempted to "drop and dash" leaving him at the facility without speaking to doctors or settling initial bills.

"I insisted they couldn't leave me like that. After several back-and-forth arguments, they took me to another hospital near MTN, where they tried to do the same thing," Amosa narrated. 

In a desperate bid to ensure accountability, the injured passenger reportedly jumped into the back of the FRSC patrol truck as they attempted to drive off, forcing the team to eventually transport him to the Badagry General Hospital where he was eventually treated.

When contacted regarding the incident, the FRSC Badagry Unit Commander, Mr. Sanni Yusuf, confirmed that his officers were on a routine patrol when the driver of the vehicle in question chose to evade a lawful stop.

"The driver refused to stop and was actually trying to crush the officer with the vehicle," Commander Yusuf stated. He explained that in the heat of the evasion attempt, the officers later realized a passenger had been injured. However, he dismissed claims of neglect, asserting that the command is fully prepared to take responsibility for the situation.

Seeking to de-escalate the tension, Commander Yusuf assured the public that the FRSC would cover the victim’s medical costs. He emphasized that the corps' primary mandate is the preservation of life and that they often assist accident victims who have no direct connection to their operations.

"My office takes care of accidents that don't even involve my officers. How much more this one? We will definitely handle it; there is no cause for alarm," Yusuf added. He urged motorists to always comply with road safety officials to avoid such preventable injuries and dangerous confrontations.

Deborah International Outreach begins Leadership and Advocacy Training in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS – A new chapter for youth leadership in Badagry has officially commenced. On March 6, 2026, The Deborah International Outreach, in a strategic partnership with the Centre for Youth Integrated Development (CYID) and supported by Tech Now Global, launched a specialized four-week leadership and advocacy program.

The inaugural session welcomed a dedicated cohort of 13 young participants, marking the start of an intensive journey toward purpose-driven influence and community impact. While the group is intimate in size, the energy and commitment displayed during the kickoff suggest a high potential for profound personal and communal transformation.

The highlight of the first week was the introduction of "Otherish Support" a core leadership philosophy that challenges traditional power structures. Unlike conventional "top-down" leadership models, the Otherish approach emphasizes the importance of lifting others while simultaneously pursuing personal growth and purpose.

Participants were guided through sessions that redefined leadership as an act of responsibility and service rather than a mere title or position of authority. This shift in perspective encouraged the emerging advocates to view their influence as a tool for collective betterment rather than individual gain.

Speaking during the session, Bunmi Onilude, the pioneer of Deborah International Outreach, expressed her optimism for the cohort. She noted that while the group consists of 13 individuals, their readiness to engage in deep collaboration is what sets them apart.

"We are focusing on quality over quantity," Onilude remarked. "These young participants are eager to grow in purpose, and they are already showing the curiosity needed to challenge conventional views of leadership in our society today."

Through guided discussions and reflective workshops, the participants delved into three critical areas:

Purpose-Driven Leadership: Understanding the "why" behind their actions.

Community and Collaboration: Realizing that sustainable change is never a solo effort.

Influence and Change: Identifying how even the youngest voices can spark significant shifts within their local environments.

The session wasn't just theoretical; it was highly interactive. Early discussions revealed a strong desire among the youth to tackle real-world issues affecting the Badagry axis. From environmental concerns to social equity, the participants demonstrated a willingness to brainstorm practical, localized solutions.

The organizers noted that the atmosphere was one of openness. Participants were not just listening; they were questioning, debating, and reimagining what it means to be a "change agent" in a modern Nigerian context.

As the first week concludes, the foundation for the remaining three weeks is firmlyhi in place. The program is designed to move from self-discovery to active advocacy. The upcoming modules will focus on helping the cohort think critically about societal bottlenecks and develop sustainable models for intervention.

By the end of this journey, these 13 participants are expected to transition from students to advocates. With the support of Tech Now Global and CYID, the program aims to instill the confidence necessary for these youths to initiate change long after the four-week period ends.

Power will be Restored in Badagry West in Short time: Lagos Government Assures Residents

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu Electric Bulb 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Lagos State Government has moved to calm nerves in the Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), assuring residents that the restoration of electricity to their homes is imminent. 

This clarification comes just 24-hour after the official commissioning of a massive re-electrification project that promises to end several years blackout in the border communities.

On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, led a high-powered delegation to commission the power project, which officially reconnected the LCDA to the national grid. However, following the ceremony, some residents raised concerns over the continued absence of power in their individual households, sparking questions about the project's status.

In an exclusive conversation with sources close to the state government, it was revealed that the gap between a ceremonial commissioning and actual power distribution is often due to technical and administrative protocols. "Major projects are sometimes commissioned once the core infrastructure is verified, often aligned with the availability of top government officials," the source explained.

For a project of this magnitude which involves a 37.7-kilometer network and over 51 new transformers the process of "energizing" the system is not instantaneous. Each transformer must undergo an individual powering process, a technical requirement that ensures the safety of the equipment and the consumers.

Technical experts noted that powering a single transformer can take between 24 to 48 hours to complete safely. Given the dozens of transformers distributed across the Gbaji, Seme, Owode, and Apa axes, the full integration of the network could realistically take several weeks.

"Powering these transformers individually is a safety precaution," the source added. "While it might take a month or two to cover the entire council area, it is a necessary step to prevent equipment failure and ensure a stable supply of electricity for the long term."

Despite the short wait for full connectivity, residents have expressed profound gratitude for the political will that brought the project to life. Mautin Nupo, a local resident, praised the efforts of Hon. Bonu Saanu Solomon, the member representing Badagry Constituency I at the Lagos State House of Assembly.

"We have been suffering this disconnection long before Hon. Bonu got into office," Nupo stated. "Since his emergence, he has consistently assured us that the electricity challenges would be solved. Today, we thank God that his promises have been kept. We pray God continues to bless him for his dedication."

Insiders have also pointed out that the re-electrification was not just a routine government project, but the result of intense advocacy. Sources close to the administration noted that the project might have stalled if not for the "personal efforts" and persistent follow-ups by Hon. Bonu, who chairs the House Committee on Tourism, Arts, and Culture.

The lawmaker’s ability to keep the plight of the Badagry West border communities on the front burner of state discourse has been cited as the primary reason the project received the necessary funding and technical priority through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

As the technical teams move from one transformer to the next, the "Greater Lagos" vision is finally becoming a reality for the people of Badagry West. The government has urged residents to remain patient and protect the newly installed infrastructure from vandalism, as the era of total darkness officially comes to an end.