‘Badagry Fastest Designer’ (BAFAD) 3.0 Ignites Hope for Local Creatives

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The grounds of the Badagry Local Government Secretariat transformed into a vibrant hub of innovation on Wednesday, July 1st, 2026, as the third edition of the Badagry Fastest Designer (BAFAD) competition took center stage.

The event, which seeks to identify and nurture the next generation of fashion icons, was more than just a contest it was a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Founded by visionary entrepreneur Oluwatumininu Ese Anthony, BAFAD has become a cornerstone of youth empowerment in the Badagry division.

For the founder, BAFAD is deeply personal. Addressing the audience, Oluwatumininu Anthony shared a moving account of her journey, tracing the origins of the festival back to the discipline instilled by her late mother, the esteemed Hon. Taiwo Demawu (fondly known as Ejire Oyila).

"BAFAD was born from pain, discipline, sacrifice, and kindness," Anthony reflected. She recounted a life-changing night from her youth when, rejected by local tailors while trying to fix her mother’s outfit, a stranger in an almost forgotten shop allowed her to use her sewing machine for free.

"I am simply trying to become for others what somebody became for me on a night when I felt rejected," Anthony said, visibly moved. "When you see me fighting for creatives, understand that this platform is a promise to repay the world through kindness. Under the theme ‘Renewed Hope Through Pieces,’ I want everyone to know that your broken pieces can still create beauty."

The event also garnered strong support from the local government administration. Representing the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Adande Hunpe, the Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Mrs. Olukami Thona Oluwayemisi, delivered a keynote address celebrating the fusion of culture and entrepreneurship.

"Fashion is much more than clothing; it is a powerful expression of culture, identity, and entrepreneurship," the address noted. "Our talented designers are not only producing beautiful garments; they are creating employment opportunities and contributing meaningfully to the economic growth of Badagry and Lagos State."

The administration reaffirmed its commitment to skills acquisition, noting that the BAFAD initiative aligns perfectly with its broader vision of youth empowerment, tourism promotion, and sustainable local economic development.

Rtr. Halilu Senu Awesu Reflects on a Transformative Year as DRR of District 9111

 By: Manoah Kikekon

LAGOS, NIGERIA – As the 2025–2026 Rotary year draws to a close, Rtr. Halilu Senu Awesu, the outgoing District Rotaract Representative (DRR) for Rotaract District 9111, has officially concluded his tenure, leaving behind a legacy defined by impactful service, strengthened community bonds, and visionary leadership.

Reflecting on a year dedicated to the theme of "Unite for Good," Awesu expressed profound gratitude for the collective efforts of Rotaractors, Rotarians, and partners who turned ambitious ideas into tangible community progress. His tenure was marked by significant outreach programs and a commitment to youth empowerment across the Lagos and Ogun state regions.

In a moving farewell message to the district, the outgoing DRR highlighted that the success of his tenure was never a solo endeavor, but a result of the vibrant energy of the district’s young leaders.

"Serving as your District Rotaract Representative has been one of the greatest privileges of my life," said Rtr. Awesu. "I leave this office deeply humbled, enriched by the friendships we've built, inspired by the lives we've touched, and confident that District 9111 will continue to soar to even greater heights."

He specifically acknowledged the crucial mentorship provided by Rotarians, noting, "To our esteemed Rotarians, thank you for your mentorship and continuous support. Your wisdom and confidence in our leadership empowered us to achieve greater impact together."

Under the leadership of the 2025–2026 executive team, District 9111 saw a flurry of activities, ranging from medical outreaches in areas like Ojuelegba to large-scale vocational empowerment programs and the inaugural "ROTAFEST" sports festival. As he steps down, Awesu has expressed his full confidence in his successor, Rtr. David Olorunju, to continue the momentum.

The outgoing DRR’s year was characterized by a push for digital innovation and deeper engagement with local communities. By fostering collaboration with non-governmental partners and government agencies, the district successfully expanded its reach, ensuring that Rotary’s "Service Above Self" ethos remained at the heart of every initiative.

As the district transitions into the new Rotary year, Awesu’s message to his fellow Rotaractors is one of continuity and pride. "To every Rotaractor across District 9111, thank you for believing in our shared vision and embracing the call to Unite for Good. Your passion, resilience, and commitment made this Rotary year truly remarkable."

Lagos Launches ‘Renewed Hope’ School Feeding Programme in Badagry

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Lagos State Government has officially flagged off the Adopt-A-School PBAT Feeds – Snacks for Thought initiative. The programme, which falls under the federal government’s Renewed Hope National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, was unveiled on Tuesday at St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and Primary School in Badagry.

The initiative aims to improve child nutrition, drive school enrollment, and bolster classroom concentration for thousands of pupils across public primary schools in Lagos State.

Representing Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, emphasized that the initiative is more than just a meal programme it is a foundation for national development.

"The future of every society is shaped not only by what it builds today but by how well it nourishes the children who will build tomorrow," Governor Sanwo-Olu stated. He noted that the programme creates a virtuous cycle of development, where nourishing schoolchildren simultaneously empowers local farmers, food vendors, and small-scale business owners within the Badagry Division.

To ensure the programme’s long-term sustainability and credibility, Governor Sanwo-Olu also unveiled the Adopt-A-School Snacks for Thought Dashboard. This innovative digital platform allows private organizations, alumni associations, faith-based groups, and individual philanthropists to: Adopt specific schools for intervention. Monitor the delivery of nutritional support in real-time. Track the tangible impact of their contributions on pupil welfare.

The Governor called on the private sector to partner with the government, emphasizing that collective action is vital to securing a brighter educational future for every child in Lagos.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, the Council Manager, Mrs. Avoseh-Akwe Senami Oluwakemi, hailed the initiative as a major win for grassroots development.

"A hungry child cannot learn effectively. This initiative is an investment in the future of our children and our society," she noted. "Beyond improving nutrition and educational outcomes, it will also create opportunities for local farmers, food vendors, and small businesses, thereby strengthening our local economy."

The National Programme Manager of the Renewed Hope School Feeding Programme, represented by Mrs. Idowu Bukola, reiterated that the initiative is designed to stimulate the entire agricultural value chain, ensuring that children receive locally sourced, healthy meals.

Badagry Rallies for Cleaner Environment as Chairman Hunpe Spearheads Monthly Sanitation Drive

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a proactive move to elevate public health standards, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, personally led the June edition of the community’s re-introduced monthly environmental sanitation exercise this past Saturday.

The exercise, which saw high-level participation from council leadership and community stakeholders, was aimed at tackling waste accumulation and promoting sustainable hygiene practices across the historic city. The cleanup operation spanned several key arterial routes, including Joseph Dosu Way, Soglo Way, Awhanjigoh, Boekoh, Aradakoh, and the areas surrounding the Muslim Cemetery.

The sanitation drive was a unified effort, featuring the First Lady of Badagry Local Government, Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Oluwatoyin Hunpe, alongside the Vice Chairman, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, and a team of council officials, including the leader of the house, Hon. Bankole Mautin Asokere, and the Secretary to the Local Government, Mr. Benjamin Adagba.

Speaking to residents and press members during the exercise, Hon. Hunpe praised the community for their increased compliance. He emphasized that maintaining a healthy environment is a shared duty that transcends government intervention.

"I am encouraged by the level of compliance and the commitment shown by our residents," Hon. Hunpe stated. "A clean environment is not the responsibility of government alone; it is a collective duty. As we continue to experience the rainy season, I urge everyone to dispose of waste responsibly, avoid dumping refuse in drainage channels, and maintain good sanitation around homes, markets, and business premises. Preventing flooding begins with keeping our drains free of refuse."

The administration’s commitment to a cleaner Badagry extends beyond monthly exercises. The Chairman highlighted his administration's focus on: Drainage Management: Continuous desilting and clearing of waterways to mitigate seasonal flooding.

Waste Evacuation: Strengthening partnerships with LAWMA-accredited Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators to ensure prompt refuse collection. Public Awareness: Sustained enlightenment campaigns aimed at fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.

Hon. Hunpe reiterated that indiscriminate waste disposal is a primary driver of environmental pollution and the spread of preventable diseases. By fostering active community participation, the administration aims to build a more resilient and aesthetically pleasing Badagry.

 Monthly Environmental Sanitation, Lagos State Sanitation, Waste Management Badagry, Community Hygiene Nigeria, Flood Prevention Badagry, Environmental Sustainability.

Olorunda LCDA Pupils Get Nutritional Boost as Chairman Ajose Flags Off ‘PBAT FEEDS’ Initiative

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Executive Chairman of Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, has officially flagged off the "Adopt A School for Snacks 4 Thought – PBAT FEEDS!" initiative. The program, which benefited 500 pupils at the Local Authority Primary School, Mowo, is part of the broader Renewed Hope National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme.

The initiative, designed to provide nutritious breakfast snacks and beverages to primary school students, aims to address the challenge of learning poverty by ensuring that children arrive in class energized and ready to focus.

During the flag-off ceremony, Hon. Ajose emphasized that the program is more than just a meal service; it is a strategic investment in human capital. "This program is designed to improve school attendance, boost classroom concentration, promote better nutrition, and encourage enrollment in our public schools," he stated.

The Chairman took the opportunity to express his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing the welfare of Nigerian children through the "Renewed Hope" agenda. He also commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support of educational policies that foster development at the grassroots level.

While the government has spearheaded this pilot phase, Hon. Ajose issued a clarion call to the private sector. "I urge corporate organizations, philanthropists, and community leaders to embrace the 'Adopt A School' initiative by supporting schools with regular feeding programs," he noted, adding that such partnerships are vital for the program’s long-term sustainability.

Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Fowowe S. S., who represented the National Program Manager, Dr. Princess Aderemi Adebowale, reinforced the importance of the adoption model. He stressed that the initiative provides a transparent, digital platform through which individuals and businesses can directly contribute to the nutritional needs of schoolchildren.

The Olorunda LCDA Supervisor for Education, Hon. Afeez Bankole, lauded the Chairman’s collaborative spirit, noting that the initiative aligns perfectly with the council's commitment to child welfare.

According to Mrs. Idowu Onashile, the Head of the Department of Education in Olorunda LCDA, the distribution of snacks will continue throughout the week, with organizers optimistic that the consistent provision of meals will significantly improve attendance and participation across local schools.

"Leave Tinubu Alone": Pastor Adeboye Defends President’s Security Efforts Amidst National Challenges

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Pastor Enoch Adeboye

Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has publicly defended President Bola Tinubu’s administration regarding the management of Nigeria’s ongoing insecurity. 

Addressing attendees at the U.S.-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala on June 23, the revered cleric urged Nigerians to cease criticisms against the President, asserting that he has fulfilled his primary duty as Commander-in-Chief.

Pastor Adeboye’s remarks centered on the division of labor within the security apparatus. Drawing a parallel to international leadership, he noted that a Commander-in-Chief’s role is to issue directives rather than personally oversee tactical operations on the ground.

"When the commander-in-chief has given instructions to his subordinates, he has done his bit," Adeboye stated, adding that it is unreasonable to expect the President to personally engage in combat. To illustrate his point, the cleric referenced how global leaders, such as former U.S. President Donald Trump, issue high-level military orders from the safety of their offices, leaving the implementation to subordinates.

The defense comes at a time when the Nigerian government faces mounting pressure to address the persistent threats posed by terrorists and bandits across the country. While some critics argue that the administration's response has been insufficient, particularly in light of recent kidnappings such as the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State, Pastor Adeboye remains steadfast in his support. 

He explicitly distanced himself from those accusing the President of inaction, emphasizing that the President’s authority rests in giving clear commands to his security chiefs.

Beyond the political defense, the event also saw the pastor offer words of spiritual assurance regarding the nation’s security crisis. He revealed that he had received divine insights concerning the sponsors of terrorism in Nigeria and offered a glimmer of hope, promising that the resolution to the Oyo school kidnapping case would be "dramatic."

The comments follow recent backlash directed at the cleric regarding his perceived silence on national security issues. In response to such criticism, the RCCG issued a statement clarifying the church's position, asserting that they are not a political entity and that Pastor Adeboye holds no elected office. 

As the national discourse on insecurity continues to evolve, Pastor Adeboye’s intervention serves as a significant moment, highlighting the complex intersection of faith, governance, and public expectation in Nigeria today.

Court Nullifies Registration of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as Political Party

By: Manoah Kikekon 

LOKOJA, KOGI STATE – The legal status of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has been thrown into uncertainty following a ruling by the Federal High Court in Lokoja, which has set aside its previous judgment that had compelled the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the entity as a political party.

Presiding Judge Isah Dashen, in his ruling on suit marked FHC/LKJ/CS/49/2025, declared the December 10, 2025, judgment "constitutionally defective." The court noted that the initial proceedings failed to include all necessary parties, a procedural oversight that has now rendered the former decision null and void.

The court’s decision followed a vigorous legal challenge filed by the Peace Movement Party (PMP). The PMP argued that it held a significant legal interest in the matter and should have been formally joined as a party before the court issued any directives regarding the NDC's registration.

Justice Dashen upheld the PMP’s application, stating that the applicant had established sufficient interest to be heard. Furthermore, the judge emphasized that material facts were withheld during the earlier proceedings, necessitating the vacation of the previous order to ensure judicial integrity.

As a result of the ruling, the court has ordered a restoration of the status quo as it existed prior to the December 2025 judgment. The substantive suit is now set to begin afresh, with the court mandating that INEC, the Peace Movement Party, and the Nigeria Democratic Congress must all be joined as active participants in the new proceedings.

This development follows earlier controversies regarding the NDC's entry into the Nigerian political arena. In February 2026, INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan had noted that only two out of eight applicants had successfully met the rigorous constitutional and Electoral Act requirements for registration, yet the NDC had secured registration through the initial court mandate that has now been vacated.

The ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse regarding the registration of new political associations in Nigeria, placing the burden back on the judiciary to ensure that the process remains transparent and inclusive of all stakeholders.