Ministerial Positions are Bought for Billions: APC Spokesperson

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Alwan Hassan, a spokesperson for the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, on Arise News on Thursday, claimed that individuals historically paid multi-billion-naira sums to secure ministerial appointments before attempting to recoup those funds while in office.

Defending President Bola Tinubu’s hands-on management of state expenditures and government revenues, Hassan explained that close presidential oversight helps prevent the diversion of public funds.

“The way Asiwaju is hands-on on the expenditure of our revenue is fantastic and I love it. A lot of ministers pay billions and billions, you know, to get themselves appointed. The first thing they think of is how to recoup that money,” Hassan stated.

Clarifying his statement, Hassan stressed that he was referring to systemic practices that predated the current government rather than ministers serving in the present administration.

“But this is the truth I’m telling you about our country. Not just APC. Before APC, the biggest fraudulent people you arrest after every government are ministers,” he added.

Responding to inquiries regarding budget deficits and funding challenges, Hassan argued that President Tinubu’s direct intervention in capital expenditure decisions has yielded better financial discipline across federal organs.

“Whatever it is a budget is supposed to do in this country in the last three and a half years, Asiwaju has done it by himself. Why do we need ministers? Why do we need budget to be given to ministers?” he asked.

Hassan also used the platform to outline several operational milestones recorded by the current administration, asserting that these successes position the ruling party strongly ahead of the 2027 presidential polls.

Pension Reforms: The release of backlogged funds to settle outstanding terminal benefits for retired federal public servants, alongside the rollout of an exit benefit mechanism to eliminate delays in pension disbinsements.

Infrastructure & Technology: Federal investments aimed at boosting local electricity metering, transitioning toward electric vehicles, deploying surveillance drones for security, and ramping up domestic ammunition manufacturing.

WCO Team Demands Tighter Controls to Stem Illicit Financial Flows at Lagos Airport

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The newly established World Customs Organization (WCO) Mentoring Mission Team on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) has advocated for heightened vigilance and more robust mechanisms to curb illicit financial flows across Nigeria's borders following an assessment visit to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command.

The inspection tour, aimed at evaluating operational challenges and improving stakeholder alignment, kicked off on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, at the Nigeria Customs Service Electronic Currency Declaration Unit located within the airport in Ikeja, Lagos.

Receiving the international delegation on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Jacob Onele, the Deputy Comptroller overseeing Enforcement, DC Mahmood Mundi, stressed that strategic partnership with the WCO is vital to building a formidable defense against money laundering and terror financing in line with global standards.

He commended the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi for driving operational efficiency, while acknowledging the vital role played by allied security agencies in maintaining national border integrity.

Highlighting recent achievements of the airport unit, DC Mundi revealed that in 2025, Customs personnel intercepted undeclared foreign currencies amounting to approximately €834,165 and $1,316,692. 

The confiscated funds were subsequently handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and legal action. 

He also noted that the command successfully modernized its processes in 2025 by transitioning from manual paper declarations to a fully digital currency declaration system.

Outlining the mission's scope, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Masa'ud Salihu, who serves as the National Coordinator of the Nigeria Customs Service AML/CFT Unit, explained that direct engagement with field officers and inter-agency partners is crucial for obtaining accurate insights into existing regulatory frameworks.

He stated that gathering direct feedback from operational officers will help identify existing loopholes, refine detection protocols, and disrupt illegal capital movements more effectively. 

He further emphasized that strengthening the AML/CFT architecture is a national priority that extends beyond the Customs Service, serving the broader security and economic interests of Nigeria.

Burkina Faso Government Reinstates Capital Punishment Amid Security Crackdown

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Ibrahim Traoré 

Burkina Faso has officially brought back the death penalty for offenses such as terrorism, espionage, treason, and the illegal importation of harmful goods, marking a major departure from its 2018 abolition of capital punishment.

On Tuesday, October 20, the West African nation's transitional parliament unanimously passed the updated penal code, with all 71 members supporting the measure after it was introduced by Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala.

This legislative change revives the death penalty nearly 40 years after the country's last recorded execution in 1988. The military-led administration initially cleared the draft legislation in December 2025, which immediately drew pushback from global human rights watchdogs.

The military junta, which took power following a 2022 coup and has repeatedly postponed transitions to civilian governance, defends the harsher legal framework as a necessary tool against persistent jihadist insurgencies linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State. The ongoing regional conflict has displaced millions and left thousands dead.

In addition to terrorism-related charges, the updated legislation applies the death penalty to cases involving the unlawful introduction of prohibited or expired products that lead to fatalities.

However, organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have strongly condemned the policy shift. Critics argue that the revived punishment could intensify a climate of fear, stifle dissent, and target government critics. These concerns follow earlier moves by the junta in 2026 to dissolve political parties and clamp down on journalists and activists.

Human rights advocates also point to documented abuses during counterterrorism operations, noting that security forces face ongoing scrutiny regarding civilian casualties alongside atrocities committed by extremist factions.

As the military authorities press forward with their security strategy, the reinstatement of capital punishment is expected to draw continued international attention regarding the state of human rights and governance in the Sahel region.

His Majesty Global School Partners with Geneith Health Competition to Battle Malaria in Oyo State

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

In a major boost to youth-driven health advocacy in Oyo State, His Majesty Global School, Ibadan, has officially joined the nationwide movement to eradicate malaria through the Geneith Health Competition (GHC).

The health education initiative, held on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, at the school's campus in Ido, Ibadan, culminated in 10 exceptional students earning free registration and being named official Malaria Ambassadors after demonstrating superior knowledge during an interactive health challenge.

Organised by CEOAFRICA, sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, and powered by Coatal Forte Softgel, the Geneith Health Competition aims to equip secondary and tertiary students across Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory with vital skills and knowledge to combat malaria at the community level.

The outreach event was led by the Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, whose team conducted an engaging question-and-answer session with the students. The quiz evaluated their understanding of health-related matters, focusing heavily on environmental hygiene, mosquito control, preventive care, and proper malaria treatment.

At the conclusion of the session, 10 students who answered all questions correctly were awarded free entry into the nationwide competition and officially designated as Malaria Ambassadors:

Senior School Category: Olayemi Taiwo, Olayemi Kehinde, Odeniran Covenant, and Owolabi Okikijesu.

Junior School Category: Adewale Aishat, Emucha Nehemiah, Adepegba Inioluwa, Abiodun Precious, Akinyemi David, and Afolayan Mary.

These student ambassadors are expected to lead health campaigns among their peers and spread preventive strategies throughout their immediate households and local communities.

Welcoming the outreach team, the President and Proprietor of His Majesty Global School, Dr. Babajide Johnson Ojo, expressed his appreciation to Prince Cletus Ilobanafor for bringing the initiative to Ido, Ibadan.

“I encourage our students to take full advantage of this competition. The knowledge and opportunities offered here can inspire future careers in the healthcare sector while bringing pride to our school. I commend the organisers for this laudable, homegrown initiative that actively supports Nigeria's broader goal of eliminating malaria through sustained public awareness.”

Echoing his sentiments, the School Principal, Mrs. Kehinde Isaac, delivered a vote of thanks, praising the organisers for selecting the institution and commending the students for their enthusiasm and exemplary participation.

The Geneith Health Competition combines academic engagement, financial incentives, and healthcare education to position Nigerian youths as active advocates rather than passive beneficiaries. By expanding its network to institutions like His Majesty Global School, the campaign continues to build a generation of informed young leaders dedicated to promoting healthier, disease-free communities.

The event concluded with class-by-class commemorative group photographs featuring Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, school management, and the newly appointed student ambassadors.

Olorunda LCDA Hosts 2027 Budget Stakeholders’ Forum to Drive Growth and Community Development

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon 

In a major step towards participatory governance and economic sustainability, Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA), under the leadership of Executive Chairman Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, hosted its Year 2027 Budget Stakeholders’ Forum on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

Held at the Council Secretariat in Badagry, Lagos State, the engagement was themed “Budget of Fiscal Consolidation and Service Delivery.” The forum provided a platform for community leaders, youth groups, traditional rulers, and residents to contribute directly to the upcoming 2027 fiscal plan.

Addressing attendees at the event, Hon. Ajose highlighted the major milestones achieved by his administration since taking office in 2025, emphasizing how the RESHAPE Agenda continues to transform key sectors across the LCDA.

“Since assuming office, we have continued to implement our RESHAPE Agenda, focusing on infrastructure, education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, social welfare, youth development, and improved service delivery,” Hon. Ajose stated.

Detailing sectoral advancements, the Chairman noted: Education & Youth Empowerment: “In the education sector, we have distributed ‘Welcome Back to School’ writing materials, supported students with JAMB and GCE examination forms, and concluded the bursary process for eligible undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students. 

"The recent Spelling Bee Competition was intended to encourage literacy and academic excellence, while the youth table tennis tournament promoted sporting talent, discipline, and positive youth engagement.”

Healthcare Interventions: “Under healthcare, we have upgraded Primary Health Care Centres at Yeponawa, Ilado, and Morogbo. We have also conducted needs assessments at Samo-Whegbo, Oke-Ogbe, and Ibereko to identify gaps and guide future interventions. We equally engaged with the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) to promote access to health insurance coverage.”

Infrastructure & Environment: “Interventions include the Age-Mowo/Mowo Road project, the construction of town halls at Imeke and Aradagun, the installation of 150 solar-powered streetlights across our communities, and the ongoing construction of Morogbo PHC. Furthermore, we have continued clearing and dredging canals in Ese, Esepe, Mushin, Obele, Araromi, Magbon, and other communities to improve water flow and reduce flooding risks.”

During the interactive session, ward representatives and grassroots groups presented their priority requests for inclusion in the 2027 budget.

Youth representatives advocated for the establishment of a state-of-the-art ICT hub to enhance digital literacy and skill acquisition for young residents. Meanwhile, community leaders requested perimeter fencing for all public primary schools across the LCDA to ensure the safety and security of pupils and staff.

Adding royal counsel to the deliberation, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Oladele Friday Kosoko (Ogundeyi II), the Iniworo of Iworo Kingdom, urged the council executive to explore untapped revenue sources to fund developmental projects.

The traditional ruler recommended key economic initiatives, including: Strict enforcement of local health and sanitation laws.

Construction of a modern commercial shopping complex at strategic locations such as Morogbo.

Capitalising on the local coastline through waterfront development projects.

Establishing designated motor parks and car parks to boost internally generated revenue (IGR).

Lagos Technocrats 4 Hamzat Inaugurates Badagry Exco., Hosts 2026 Summit

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Lagos Technocrats for Obafemi Hamzat officially inaugurated its Badagry Chapter executives while hosting the high-powered Badagry Technocrats Summit 2026 on Saturday, 17 October 2026 in Badagry, Lagos State.

The gathering focused on the active participation of professionals and intellectuals in political decision-making processes, grassroots policy formulation, and political mobilisation for Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Mike Oladunjoye Egbayelo, the Director-General and Convener of Lagos Technocrats for Hamzat, emphasised that the movement’s primary focus in Badagry revolves around empowering young people with high-demand digital skills to transform the local economy.

“Badagry should not just be a community; it should be a community of innovators and tech-savvy young people where technology is used to drive economic transformation,” Dr. Egbayelo stated. 

“For instance, historical sites could be powered by technology offering virtual tours, and a digital marketplace could be built for local products so people worldwide can order Badagry fish and coconuts without travelling here.

“Young people can be empowered to drive these technical innovations, and that is precisely what the Lagos Technocrats are focusing on in Badagry, using technology as the essential tool to build the future.

Badagry youths must wake up and join the moving train because the world is advancing rapidly. Most importantly, Badagry needs a dedicated tech hub that serves as an incubation centre for local innovation, and the youth should expect more tech initiatives from us.”

Addressing scepticism around political groups, the newly inducted Badagry Coordinator for Technocrats for Hamzat 2027, Hunye Minasu Joseph, underscored the group’s long-term developmental focus beyond election cycles.

“People may think we are doing this simply because it is political season, but that is not the case,” Joseph explained. “Beyond the elections, we are committed to hosting continuous skill-up programs to educate and train our people in technology. 

In fact, professional skills or academic background are prerequisites for joining this organisation, ensuring members directly benefit when opportunities arise.

“We must embrace technology and reject political apathy. Whether we vote or not, government policies affect our daily lives, which is why professionals must come together to actively support visionary leadership.”

Echoing these views, Ojo Semasa, Director of Student Affairs for the group, highlighted the vision to build an enlightened, politically conscious youth demographic in Badagry over the coming years:

“We want to build a community of intellectuals who shape governance, policy outcomes, and development at both local and national levels. While Badagry youths have historically been politically passive, we are seeing an awakening in innovation. We must take full ownership of grassroots politics rather than remaining on the sidelines.”

Contributing as a keynote panellist at the summit, Senami Anko challenged young attendees to move beyond abstract discussions and transition into practical problem-solving.

“Badagry youths need to go out, identify real challenges in their communities, collaborate, conduct research, and build actionable solutions,” 

Anko remarked. “Technology serves as an enabler across vast sectors here, including agriculture, aquaculture, circular economy, waste management, and eco-tourism. Badagry is a rich heritage site, and young people can tap into these sustainable opportunities to connect local potential with the global economy.”

Expressing local readiness, Hungbo Mauwanu, Coordinator for Technocrats for Hamzat in Badagry West LCDA, affirmed that the region's youth are prepared to leverage technology to stay ahead:

“Youths in Badagry West have always been keen on technology and innovation. This time around, we are fully positioned and will not be left behind in driving both technological advancement and political progress.”

Badagry ADC Candidate Shittu Adewale Organises Football Competition to Promote Youth Development

By: Saheed Jinodu

Hon. Shittu Adewale and players 

Hon. Shittu Adewale, an aspirant for the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Badagry Constituency II under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has reiterated his commitment to youth development, talent discovery, and community unity through sporting activities.

Speaking during a football competition organised on Saturday for the youths of his constituency, Shittu clarified that the event was not politically motivated but aimed at bringing young people together, discovering their talents, and supporting their aspirations.

According to him, the initiative was designed to encourage youths, particularly those from communities across Badagry, to recognise their potential and develop their abilities, irrespective of their educational backgrounds.

"This event is not politically inclined. It is about bringing the youth together to showcase their talents, develop their abilities, and encourage them to achieve their dreams," he said.

Shittu added that the initiative would continue beyond the current competition, noting that more sporting, musical, and cultural events were being planned to promote peace, friendship, and unity among young people in the area.

"This event is not the last. There are many more activities to come, including sporting, musical, and cultural events. We want to continue organising programmes like this to bring our youths together and promote peace, friendship, and unity among our communities," he stated.

He further explained that his motivation stemmed from his personal experience as a young person who understands the importance of providing opportunities and support for the younger generation.

"I am also a youth, and I understand what young people need to support their dreams and the coming generation. Sporting activities should be given priority, especially in Lagos State, because they provide opportunities for young people to showcase their abilities," Shittu added.

Meanwhile, Joyi Folorunsho, a member of the Badagry Football Council, commended Shittu for providing an opportunity for young people in the area to gather and participate in football. Folorunsho expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing it as a vital avenue to encourage youth participation in sports.

"I really appreciate Shittu for giving us this opportunity to bring boys and youths together in our area to enjoy soccer," he said.

He also appealed to both the state and local governments to build a standard football field in Badagry to support the development of young sports talent and create opportunities for aspiring players to pursue professional careers.

According to Folorunsho, while areas along the Mile 2–Ajegunle axis have functional football facilities, Badagry still lacks a standard football pitch despite repeated requests. He stressed that providing such infrastructure would help nurture talented young athletes and accelerate the growth of football within the community.