Lagos 2027: Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA) Cleared for APC Governorship Primaries

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Samuel Mawuyon Ajose 

ABUJA, NIGERIA – The race for the Alausa Government House has reached a critical milestone as Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Ajose (SMA), a prominent governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has been officially cleared to participate in the party’s upcoming primaries.

The express clearance followed a rigorous screening exercise conducted by the APC National Screening Committee in Abuja on Sunday, May 10, 2026. Party insiders described Dr. Ajose’s performance as "outstanding," solidifying his standing as a top-tier contender for the May 21 primaries.

The screening venue was a sea of supporters as Dr. Ajose arrived with a high-powered delegation. The entourage, which showcased the aspirant's deep grassroots reach, included revered traditional rulers, religious leaders, and political stalwarts, particularly from the Badagry Division.

The successful clearance has ignited widespread celebrations across Lagos State, with supporters viewing it as a victory against the perceived "consensus" arrangements that have dominated recent political headlines in the state.

Addressing the press moments after receiving his clearance certificate, a visibly confident Dr. Ajose expressed his gratitude to the party leadership and his dedicated followers.

“I am deeply humbled by the confidence reposed in me by the party and by the massive show of solidarity from our leaders and the people of Badagry and beyond,” Dr. Ajose stated. 

“This is not just a personal victory; it is a victory for every Lagosian who yearns for inclusive, compassionate, and transformational governance. We move forward, against all odds, towards the primaries with faith and determination.”

The SMA Media Team further bolstered this sentiment, describing the clearance as a “cheering confirmation of Dr. Ajose’s impeccable credentials and unwavering commitment to the progress of Lagos State.”

With Dr. Ajose now officially in the race, the Lagos APC Governorship Primaries scheduled for May 21, 2026, are set to be highly competitive. While some party blocs have hinted at consensus candidates, Dr. Ajose’s decision to move forward signals a demand for internal democracy and a direct choice for party delegates.

NAIP Boss Urges FG to Transform Nigeria into Africa’s Pharma Hub

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Pharm. (Sir) Bankole Ezebuilo

ILORIN, NIGERIA – The National Chairman of the Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP), Pharm. (Sir) Bankole Ezebuilo, has issued a Clarion call to the Federal Government to declare a national emergency on local pharmaceutical manufacturing. 

Speaking at the 29th Annual National Conference and Training of NAIP in Ilorin, Kwara State, Ezebuilo warned that Nigeria’s current reliance on imported medicines is a direct threat to national security.

The conference, themed "Collaboration and Innovation to Build Local Solutions for the Future of Nigeria’s Pharmaceutical Industry," brought together a high-powered assembly of regulators, manufacturers, and policymakers to chart a course for pharmaceutical sovereignty.

Addressing the stakeholders, Ezebuilo highlighted a staggering statistic: Nigeria currently imports over 70 percent of its medicines and nearly all of its Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs). This dependency, he argued, leaves the nation vulnerable to global supply chain shocks and currency volatility.

"No nation can outsource its health security," Ezebuilo declared. "A nation that cannot produce its own medicines is a nation negotiating with its health, and negotiation is not where you want to be when lives are at stake."

He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement aggressive policies that would transition Nigeria from a consumer nation to the definitive pharmaceutical manufacturing hub for the African continent.

Ezebuilo emphasized that the journey toward self-sufficiency requires more than just infrastructure; it requires a radical shift in technical competence and institutional collaboration. He challenged the sector to move beyond theoretical discussions toward measurable industrial outcomes.

"The best way to predict the future is to create it," he said, quoting a famous leadership principle. "To build local solutions, we must stop importing not just medicines, but also ideas."

The NAIP Chairman assured the government that industrial pharmacists are trained and ready to lead this "pharmaceutical industrial revolution," provided the enabling environment including access to forex and stable power is secured.

In a significant demonstration of the association's commitment to grassroots welfare, the conference featured a massive humanitarian outreach. Ezebuilo commissioned the renovation of healthcare centres worth millions of naira at the Palace of the Emir of Ilorin.

Supported by the Kwara State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina L. Imam, the NAIP "Speaking Humanity with Passion" initiative provided:.Free Medical Consultations: For over 1,000 residents of Ilorin and surrounding rural communities. Specialized Interventions: Expert care and free drug distribution for indigent patients. Grassroots Strengthening: Direct investment in local primary healthcare facilities.

The event featured a keynote address by US-based pharmaceutical executive Dr. Henrietta N. Ukwu and was attended by a "who’s who" of the profession, including past PSN presidents Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa and Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, as well as the Registrar of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria, Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed.

Representing the Kwara State Government were several cabinet members, including the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, signaling strong state-level support for industrial pharmaceutical growth.

SEAL Initiative Empowers Over 600 LASU Students with Massive Fashion Outreach

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Lagos State University (LASU) campus was recently set abuzz as the Student Mobilization for Empowerment and Leadership Initiative (SEAL INITIATIVE) successfully concluded its highly anticipated outreach, “Empowering Students: Style at No Cost 2.0.”

Held on May 6th and 7th, 2026, during the annual LASUSU Trade Fair, the event saw the distribution of over 600 high-quality fashion and lifestyle items to students, completely free of charge.

The initiative was meticulously designed to go beyond simple charity; it aimed to provide a dignified shopping experience for students, particularly those navigating the current economic challenges. From trendy clothes and shoes to bags, wigs, books, and essential accessories, every item was sorted, laundered, and packaged to ensure beneficiaries received nothing but the best.

Makinde Endurance Anuoluwapo, the Founder of SEAL INITIATIVE, highlighted the core mission of the project:

"Through the dedication, sacrifice, and commitment of volunteers and supporters, we successfully distributed over 600 quality items. This outreach was designed not just as a support program, but as a platform to restore confidence, dignity, and self-expression among students, especially those facing financial challenges."

The success of the two-day event was powered by a dedicated team of volunteers who managed everything from crowd control to the aesthetic arrangement of the "pop-up shop." Their goal was to create an environment where students felt valued rather than like recipients of a handout.

Volunteer Boko Senami shared her perspective on the emotional weight of the project:

"This initiative is beyond giving out clothes. It is about helping students feel confident, valued, and supported. Seeing the smiles and appreciation from students made every effort worth it."

Another volunteer, Kofi Morenikeji, echoed these sentiments, noting the power of youth-led collaboration:

"The level of organization, sacrifice, and dedication from the volunteers was inspiring. It shows that young people can come together to create real impact in the lives of students."

Beyond immediate welfare, the "Style at No Cost 2.0" outreach promoted a culture of sustainable fashion and responsible reuse. By refining and redistributing quality unused items donated by partners and supporters, the SEAL INITIATIVE demonstrated a practical model for community-driven empowerment.

Following the overwhelming student participation and positive feedback, the organization has announced plans to scale the project. Makinde Endurance Anuoluwapo emphasized that this is just the beginning of a larger movement:

"Empowering Students: Style at No Cost is not just a one-time event. We are building a sustainable system of student support and empowerment. Our goal is to expand this initiative across more campuses and continue creating opportunities that help students feel confident, supported, and empowered."

Toviho Olayemi Monday Resigns from ADC Membership

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ADC and Toviho Olayemi Monday 

AJARA, BADAGRY – In a move that could reshape the local political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, Toviho Olayemi Monday has officially announced his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The announcement, which was made public on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, was contained in a formal resignation letter addressed to the Ward Chairman of ADC, Ward J, Ajara, Badagry. Toviho, a prominent figure from the Agbojetho community in Ajara Vetho, cited a need for a new political direction aligned with his vision for the people of Badagry.

The resignation letter, titled “Resignation from ADC Membership,” confirmed that Toviho’s withdrawal is effective immediately. In the document, he clarified that although his initial registration was conducted through the party’s online portal, he has now formally revoked all ties and prior expressions of membership.

“I hereby withdraw any prior expression of membership and confirm that from the date of this notice, I am not a member of the ADC,” the statement read.

Toviho requested the party leadership to update their records accordingly, marking a clean break from the political platform.

Addressing his supporters, Toviho urged his followers to stay calm and resolute during this transition. He assured them that the decision was a strategic step toward finding a political platform that shares his commitment to good governance and effective representation.

“My focus remains unwavering,” he added. “I am dedicated to ensuring that the people of Badagry enjoy the dividends of democracy. This move is about positioning ourselves with a party that prioritises the needs of our constituents.”

Toviho Olayemi Monday’s exit from the ADC comes at a time when political realignments are intensifying across Lagos State. By declaring his intent to remain focused on his goal to emerge as a representative for Badagry, he has signaled that his political journey is far from over.

CYID Graduates 50+ Badagry Youths ith In-Demand Tech and Creative Skills

By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a significant boost to local human capital development, the Centre for Youth Integrated Development (CYID) celebrated the graduation of over 50 youths on Wednesday May 6, 2026. The graduates successfully completed a rigorous three-month intensive vocational training program designed to equip them with the tools necessary to thrive in the modern global economy.

The free training program covered five high-demand vocational tracks: Web Design, Graphics Design, Data and Design, Advanced Fashion Design, and Visual Art. Held at the CYID centre in Badagry, the graduation ceremony served as a powerful testament to the impact of community-driven skill acquisition.

Since its inception, the Centre has remained a beacon of hope for young people in the coastal town. 

Addressing the audience, Mr. Victor Aihawu the founder of the centre, while addressing the students said, the centre's long-standing commitment to social upliftment.

"This centre was founded in 2017 with the sole aim of building our youths in Badagry. Over the years, we have trained close to a thousand youths here for free and provided them with recognized certificates," Aihawu stated.

He further emphasized that the program goes beyond technical skills, incorporating Business Management training to ensure graduates can effectively manage their own enterprises. "This is very important to youth development. 

We are open to sponsorship and support from within and outside Badagry to help us train even more youths, making them productive rather than engaging in illegal activities."

Facilitators expressed immense pride in the transformation of their students over the 90-day period. 

Yinka Muyideen, the Visual Art facilitator, noted that many students arrived as total novices.

"At first, the students knew nothing of what art is all about," Muyideen remarked. "But within three months, they learned the basics and produced fantastic designs. Opportunities like this prevent youths from falling into drug abuse, cultism, and theft."

Joy Afolabi, the Graphic Design facilitator, added that the program was a reciprocal learning experience, stating it gave her the "opportunity to learn more, network, and impact lives positively."

The graduates themselves shared inspiring stories of growth and newfound confidence. For many, the journey from uncertainty to mastery was life-changing.

 "At first, it was difficult, but having an understanding tutor helped me catch up. Now I am proud of myself and can officially call myself a visual artist."

Senami Kuton (Web Design Student) "I have learnt a lot. I can now build a website from scratch, and my level of confidence has increased significantly. I really appreciate the organizers for this rare privilege."

By providing these high-level skills for free, CYID is directly addressing the root causes of youth restiveness in Lagos State. By transitioning young people from the streets into the digital and creative industries, the initiative provides a sustainable pathway to financial independence.

The management of CYID continues to call on stakeholders, philanthropists, and corporate organizations to partner with them to expand their reach and continue the mission of transforming Badagry into a hub of skilled talent.

Onigbanko of Igbanko Kingdom Disowns Suspected Drug Trafficker Intercepted on Seme Expressway

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a swift and decisive reaction to a burgeoning scandal, the Onigbanko of Igbanko Land, HRM Oba Sheriff Adeshina Bello, has officially dissociated himself and his traditional cabinet from a suspect intercepted with illicit drugs along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

The disclaimer follows the circulation of a viral video showing one Mr. Ogabi Olubukola Joseph in the custody of law enforcement agents. In the footage, the suspect reportedly identified himself as the Baale of Mushin-Gbanko, a title the monarch insists is entirely fraudulent and unrecognized within his domain.

In a formal statement released on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Onigbanko clarified that the suspect has no official or personal ties to the palace or the community's leadership structure. 

Vedio of the suspect 

"I wish to announce to the general public and disassociate myself and the entire Onigbanko Cabinet from the video currently making the rounds involving one Ogabi Olubukola Joseph," the monarch stated. "The said self-acclaimed Baale is neither known to Onigbanko nor has any personal or official dealing with him."

Oba Bello further emphasized that his throne stands for discipline and the rule of law, maintaining that his administration has zero tolerance for criminal activities. 

"The Onigbanko states categorically that he is a law-abiding citizen. His cabinet does not condone drug trafficking or harbour drug barons. The public is enjoined never to associate Mr. Ogabi Olubukola Joseph with Onigbanko."

While the traditional institution moves to protect its integrity, the incident has highlighted a brewing procedural row between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). 

Sources within the NDLEA revealed to News Peddlers that while the suspect was intercepted by Customs officers of Seme Command at Agbara earlier this week, a formal handover of the suspect, the vehicle, and the full quantity of seized drugs has yet to occur. 

"Nigeria Customs Service has not officially handed over the suspect to the NDLEA," a source disclosed. 

"In the past, there have been cases where proper handing over isn't done. They may release the suspect and the vehicle after some time and only hand over a portion of the drugs, which is not proper and hinders our ability to investigate the wider network."

The NDLEA source stressed that the delay in transferring the case file impacts the agency's ability to track down other members of the drug syndicate. 

"If every suspect and exhibit is handed over to NDLEA in time, it will help us investigate and arrest other people involved. That is our job," the source added.

Lagos West: Aladeotan Presides Over Strategic NYCN Management Meeting

 By: Manoah Kikekon

AJEROMI-IFELODUN, LAGOS — In a major move to streamline youth advocacy and regional development, the Vice-Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos West Senatorial District, Comr. David Aladeotan, has successfully presided over the district’s high-level Management Meeting.

The strategic session, held on Saturday at the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Secretariat, was hosted by the NYCN Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Branch under the leadership of its Coordinator, Comr. Isaac Success. The meeting served as a critical touchpoint for youth leaders across the largest senatorial district in Lagos State.

Addressing the assembly of coordinators and youth stakeholders, Comr. Aladeotan emphasized that the management meeting was vital for maintaining the momentum of the council’s "Build the Youth, Build the Nation" agenda. 

The session allowed leadership to conduct a comprehensive "health check" on the various local branches and Voluntary Youth Organisations (VYOs) within the district.

“This meeting availed us the opportunity to discuss progress and challenges, and to plan ahead for the remaining periods in the year,” Aladeotan stated. “More so, it availed us the opportunity to receive activities reports from our local branches and Voluntary Youth Organisations in Lagos West.”

Lagos West remains a powerhouse within the NYCN structure, and the meeting recorded a massive turnout, signaling a unified front among the grassroots coordinators. The reports presented during the summit highlighted diverse initiatives ranging from skill acquisition programs to civic engagement drives carried out across the local government areas.

Aladeotan expressed his satisfaction with the level of engagement and the dedication shown by the branch heads in navigating the unique socio-economic challenges within their jurisdictions.

The summit concluded with a resolved roadmap for the second half of the year, focusing on: Enhanced Reporting: Streamlining how local branches document their impact. Collaboration: Fostering synergy between VYOs and local government authorities. Capacity Building: Preparing Lagos West youths for leadership roles in the upcoming 2027 electoral cycle.

“It was a great success and a massive turnout from the coordinators of the largest Senatorial District of NYCN Lagos,” Aladeotan remarked, reiterating the council's core philosophy: "Build the youth and build the nation."