Babcock University to Lead Africa’s AI Revolution at 2026 Innovation Summit

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ILISHAN-REMO, NIGERIA – Babcock University is preparing to become the epicentre of Africa’s technological transformation as it hosts the AI & Babcock Innovation Venture (BIV) Commercialization Summit 2026. The high-level event, scheduled for April 21–22, 2026, aims to bridge the gap between academic research and global market success.

The two-day summit will take place at the university’s 600-seater BUTH venue, gathering global tech giants, venture capitalists, and policymakers to discuss the future of Artificial Intelligence and entrepreneurship in Africa.

A core objective of the summit is the official operationalization of the Babcock Innovation and Venture Centre (BUIV). This dedicated hub is designed to turn intellectual property into market-ready products, ensuring that researchers and students can earn economic value from their innovations.

The Vice-Chancellor and Chief Host, Professor Afolarin Olutunde Ojewole, emphasized that the university is moving beyond theory to foster a "commercialization mindset."

“The world no longer rewards certificates but skills,” Prof. Ojewole stated. “We want to put our research into the market so that innovators can derive a reward for their labour. Efficiency without transformation is just speed in the wrong direction.”

Through initiatives like the “From Garage to Global” programme and the Babcock Innovative Enterprise Challenge (BEIC), the university is positioning its students to build venture-backed startups that can compete on the world stage.

The summit aligns with the Federal Government of Nigeria's strategy to reposition tertiary institutions as incubators for Artificial Intelligence. Signaling strong government support, the Minister of Innovation, Kingsley T. Udeh, is expected to attend as the Guest of Honour.

The event features an impressive roster of international thought leaders and industry experts, including: Abdullah Alsalmani, Nicky Verd, and Arvind Ravishunkar. Dr. Peter Obadare, Nissi Madu, and Folawemi Umunna. Charles Nnaji, Bekere Amassoma, and Okikioluwa Onamade.

These experts will provide actionable insights into funding AI enterprises, scaling digital growth, and the ethics of human-centred technology. The institution’s Entrepreneurship Development Centre will also play a pivotal role in teaching students how to be both technically proficient and commercially aware.

Babcock University has opened registration to students, academics, and industry stakeholders free of charge. This summit offers a rare opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to network with the funders and builders of the next generation of AI-driven enterprises.

Registration Portal: [www.babcockinnovation.com/events](https://www.google.com/search?q=http://www.babcockinnovation.com/events)

Layode Rallies Badagry Leaders for Sesi Whingan’s 2027 Re-election

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Ibrahim Layode and Hon. Sesi Whingan 

IBEREKO, BADAGRY – In a significant move to reshape the political landscape of the Badagry Federal Constituency, the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, has called on stakeholders to unite behind the re-election bid of Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan (SMA) for the 2027 House of Representatives seat.

Speaking during a high-profile joint consultation meeting on April 18, 2026, at Whingan’s residence in Ibereko, Layode argued that Badagry’s developmental progress is often stifled by its history of one-term representation. He stressed that "continuity is the engine of sustainable growth."

Addressing a gathering of leaders from the eleven traditional wards of the constituency, Commissioner Layode described Whingan’s current performance at the National Assembly as "exemplary." He pointed out that the long-standing tradition of rotating representatives after a single term has historically limited Badagry’s influence in Abuja.

> “Effective lawmaking requires time and experience. By breaking the jinx of one-term representation, we allow our legislators to reach ‘ranking status,’ which grants them the seniority needed to chair powerful committees and attract major federal interventions,” Layode stated.

He urged the community to prioritise the long-term benefits of political stability over the customary rotation of power, noting that Whingan has already positioned the constituency for unprecedented opportunities.

The meeting saw a strong showing of political heavyweights and community icons, signaling a shift in the local political tide. Notable attendees included: Chief Rabiu Amusa: Retired Customs boss and former House of Representatives aspirant. Chief Ade Agoro: Influential community leader. Hon. Dansu Dominic: Former APC Chairman of Badagry West. Numerous ward chairmen and grassroots mobilisers.

The presence of these figures underscores a growing consensus that the "SMA Movement" represents a collective vision for a more prosperous Badagry.

In his response, Hon. Sesi Whingan expressed deep gratitude for the endorsement from such high-ranking leaders. He reaffirmed that his second-term ambition is fueled by a desire to complete the "unprecedented" projects he has initiated.

Whingan revealed that while several transformative projects were successfully facilitated into the 2025 and 2026 federal budgets, the release of funds is a process that benefits from the persistence of an incumbent. 

“Returning for a second term is not about the seat; it is about the projects,” Whingan explained. “It would elevate our constituency to a ranking status that opens doors to massive federal interventions in infrastructure, education, and human capital development that have been out of reach for decades.”

"Let Doctors Breathe": Lagos Medics Protest Police Harassment and "Defensive Medicine" Risks

By: Manoah Kikekon 

IKEJA, LAGOS – Medical professionals across Lagos State took to the streets on Saturday to protest what they described as systematic harassment, illegal detentions, and intimidation by the Nigerian Police Force. The demonstration, held at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), highlighted a growing rift between security agencies and the healthcare sector that experts warn could cripple patient care.

The protest was jointly organized by the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), following a series of controversial arrests involving doctors and nurses.

The Chairman of the Lagos State ANPMP, Dr. Jonathan Esegine, delivered a stinging critique of law enforcement tactics, specifically naming the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti. He alleged that police officers frequently "abduct" doctors from their clinics, often while they are in the middle of attending to patients.

"Doctors are being hounded at will, harassed, intimidated, and imprisoned for no just cause," Dr. Esegine stated. "When a doctor is yanked away from their practice, services are shut down and patients are deprived of life-saving care."

Esegine cited a harrowing recent case in Lekki, where a doctor and nurse were detained for an entire week during the Easter period following the tragic death of two siblings brought to their facility in critical, septic conditions. Despite the medical team's best efforts, the police intervened and detained the staff before any professional investigation into the cause of death was conducted.

A primary concern raised during the protest was the shift toward defensive medicine. Doctors warned that the fear of being labeled a murderer by the police following a failed medical emergency is forcing practitioners to hesitate.

"When you confront a medical emergency, you now begin to ask yourself: should I attempt to save this life or not?" Dr. Esegine warned. "If it fails, the police will jump in. We are not God; we are trained to save lives, but we cannot guarantee them."

The medical leaders emphasized that outcomes in medicine are not always predictable, even with the highest standard of care, and that a patient's death does not automatically equate to professional negligence.

The National First Vice President of the NMA, Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, reminded the public and security agencies that the police lack the technical expertise to determine medical malpractice. He asserted that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) is the only legally authorized body to investigate and adjudicate cases of alleged medical negligence.

Dr. Olowojebutu further warned that this environment of fear is accelerating the "brain drain" crisis in Nigeria’s health sector. 

"We are patriotic; we do not want to leave Nigeria, but this police harassment is pushing us away," he said. "Let doctors breathe so we can solve our country's health problems with passion and empathy."

Adding to the pressure, the Lagos State NMA Chairman, Dr. Saheed Babajide Kehinde, noted that doctors are increasingly being "tried and convicted" on social media before facts are verified. He urged the media and the public to refrain from sensationalizing medical cases, as unfair judgment from both the public and security agencies puts the entire healthcare system at risk.

Badagry 2027: Mateju Agba Mole, Iragon-Thogli Endorses Hon. Segun Onilude for House of Reps

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Mateju Agba Mole Base of Iragon-Thogli (Ward I) officially endorsed Hon. Olusegun Adeniran Onilude for the House of Representatives in the upcoming 2027 elections.

The endorsement took place on Friday during a community square gathering, where hundreds of residents expressed their frustration with years of perceived neglect and voiced their hope for a "louder, more proactive voice" in the National Assembly.

As part of the event food palliatives was distributed to the residents present at the gathering.

In a heartfelt request read during the event, community leaders highlighted the stark realities facing the Iragon-Thogli axis. The residents lamented decades of infrastructural decay, noting that the community has not seen a significant political appointment since the 1980s.

"God and nature planned our destinies, but our environmental challenges have edited most of them," the community statement read.

The residents presented a 5-point Charter of Demands to Hon. Onilude, focusing on:

1.  Education: Curbing truancy and providing scholarships for indigent students.

2.  Youth Inclusiveness: Sponsoring bills for digital jobs and SME grants.

3.  Infrastructure: Collaborating with state authorities for clean water, electricity, and functional health centres.

4.  Accountability: Establishing quarterly town hall meetings for feedback.

5.  Agriculture: Enhancing productivity for local farmers the backbone of the Badagry economy.

Hon. Segun Onilude, the current Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, addressed the crowd with characteristic candour. While acknowledging that some requests fall under executive rather than legislative powers, he pledged to use his political leverage to bridge the gap.

"I will take your cry to the executive chairman and apply the necessary pressure to ensure these issues are addressed," Onilude promised. He also lauded the Direct Primary system, describing it as the purest form of democracy where every party member has a say in their representation.

The endorsement comes amidst growing dissatisfaction with the incumbent representation. 

Noah Sedowhe, President of the Mateju Agba Mole Base, noted that while the current representative has made efforts, they have not been sufficient to meet the division's deep-seated needs.

"Our leaders in the APC from this community have often been selfish," Sedowhe stated. "We cannot afford to put all our eggs in one basket. We need an alternative that delivers."

Mr. Jelili Sewanu from Igborosun recalled Onilude’s track record as a local government chairman, specifically citing his project to build public utilities in Ward I as evidence of his commitment to the grassroots.

Mr. Vincent Ogun closed the event by urging the youth to move beyond passive observation. He emphasised that active political participation is the only way for the younger generation to ensure they are part of the decision-making process for the future of Badagry.

Agemowo Kingdom Set to Mark 3rd Coronation Anniversary of HRM Aholu Solomon Jonah

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

HRM Aholu Solomon Jonah

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Agemowo Kingdom is buzzing with anticipation as the Ajaka Royal Council officially announces the three-year coronation anniversary of HRM Aholu (Oba) Solomon Jonah Adewale Egbenayon, the Jakavi 1st Owa Ajaka of Agemowo.

In a statement released on Saturday by the royal family, the general public is cordially invited to join in a three-day series of cultural and spiritual activities. The event celebrates three years of the monarch's reign, a period marked by tradition, community growth, and cultural preservation in the historic Badagry region.

The anniversary festivities will kick off on Friday, 29th May 2026, with a day dedicated to the deep-rooted traditions of the Agemowo people. Starting at 9:00 AM, the Palace will host traditional prayers, followed by a solemn visitation to the ancient shrines within the kingdom.

Spectators can look forward to a vibrant display of local heritage, including: Ajogen Cultural Display, Zangbeto (The Guardians of the Night) Performance, Akohun Cultural Display and various other traditional showcases.

The celebrations will reach their peak on Saturday, 30th May 2026, with the Grand Finale ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place at the Ajaka Royal Palace in Agemowo, Badagry, starting at 12:00 PM. 

This gathering is expected to draw dignitaries, fellow traditional rulers, and sons and daughters of the soil from across Lagos State to pay homage to the Jakavi 1st and celebrate the progress of the kingdom under his leadership.

To conclude the milestone anniversary, a special Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday, 31st May 2026. The royal family and the community will gather at the Celestial Church of Christ, Aanu Oluwa Cathedral, located at Araromi Ale, Phase 2, Elijah Bus Stop, Badagry.

The service, which begins at 10:00 AM, will serve as a moment of reflection and prayer for the continued peace and prosperity of Agemowo Kingdom and its people.

Lagos 2027: Badagry Youths Stage Rally for Mauyon Ajose, Demands he becomes Lagos Governor

 By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Thousands of young people in Badagry Division, transport workers, and grassroots stakeholders from all 10 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) gathered for a massive rally to endorse the governorship aspiration of Mr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, popularly known as SMA.

The mobilization, which signals a deepening of the Badagry Division’s quest for the 2027 Lagos State governorship, was strategically tied to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing a vision for inclusive growth and regional equity.

The rally, convened by Comrade Joshua Hunga, demonstrated a rare unity between the youth demographic and the state's vital transport sector. Representatives from the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) were present in full force, pledging their total commitment to the SMA movement.

Addressing the vibrant crowd, Comrade Hunga declared that the youths and transport workers are the "backbone of Lagos politics" and would serve as the decisive factor in the upcoming party primaries.

"Our support for SMA is not accidental; it is rooted in his deep understanding of our struggles and his alignment with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision," Hunga stated. "Lagos needs a leader who combines corporate competence with genuine empathy, and SMA is that leader."

The event took a high-profile turn with the presence of veteran actress Medeyonmi Akron, who officially endorsed SMA’s candidacy. She described the aspirant as a compassionate, people-focused leader capable of delivering a clear roadmap for development that leaves no division behind.

Adding to the momentum, market leaders in Badagry, led by the Iyaloja and her executive council, threw their weight behind the "SMA Gold" campaign. The traders cited his consistent track record of philanthropy, specifically mentioning his provision of a dedicated market office as evidence of his commitment to the local economy.

The market leaders used the platform to send a direct message to the Presidency, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give Badagry due consideration in the 2027 race to ensure the "IBILE" (Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe) formula remains balanced.

Throughout the rally, the recurring theme was the preservation of President Tinubu’s legacy in Lagos. Speakers emphasized that SMA, as a seasoned business figure and philanthropist, is best positioned to sustain the developmental strides of the current administration while addressing the specific infrastructure and economic needs of the Badagry axis.

Lagos State Announces 10-Day Grand Funeral Rites for Late Akran of Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Lagos State Government has officially unveiled the transition programme for His Imperial Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I (OFR), the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom. 

This was disclosed in a press briefing held on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in Badagry, the state government declared a 10-day series of events to honour the iconic monarch, starting April 23, 2026.

The announcement was made by Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the Lagos State Government (SSG) and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee. She emphasized that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is committed to providing a burial "befitting the stature and legacy" of the revered monarch.

The funeral rites are designed to blend traditional Ogu customs with modern state ceremonies. As the date is strategically chosen in remembrance of the day the Akran was crowned. The approved itinerary includes:

Day 1 (April 23): The "Ajogan" Royal Parade and traditional gun salutes across the eight quarters of Badagry, followed by a posthumous coronation documentary.

Day 2 & 3 (April 24-25): A novelty football match at Badagry Grammar School and a massive community sanitation and medical outreach.

Day 4 (April 26-28): Three days dedicated to traditional homage paid by market associations, business tycoons, and artisans.

Day 5 & 6 (April 29-30): Inspection of the proposed Badagry Central Palace site and a symbolic "Fitila Night" (Komiogban) procession by the youth.

Day 7 (May 1): Special Jumat service followed by the Akran Legacy Festival at the Badagry Marina.

Day 8 (May 2): The Main Event featuring an interdenominational service, foundation laying for the Aholu Menu-Toyi Park, and a grand reception featuring legendary artist Sagbohan Danialou.

Day 9 (May 3): Thanksgiving service and reception with performances by Young Stars and Ricos Campos.

Day 10 (May 6): The final traditional rites, including the esoteric Zangbeto procession and Oro rites across the kingdom.

Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu, representing Badagry Constituency I in the Lagos House of Assembly, highlighted the Akran Legacy Festival as a pivotal part of the celebration. 

"Baba did so much to liberate the youths. This festival is aimed at opening up the Badagry economy; it will be a three-day trade and entertainment hub. We call on all Badagrians, home and abroad, to join us," Hon. Bonu stated.

Mr. Adeyinka Amosu, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee, noted that the state-led involvement puts an end to months of uncertainty. He remarked that this historic celebration signals a new era of attention from the state government toward the Badagry division.

The late Akran, a distinguished journalist and traditional leader, was known for his peaceful reign and advocacy for the development of Badagry. The "Golden Jubilee" monarch’s passing marks the end of an era for one of Nigeria's most historic coastal kingdoms.