CYI holds Maiden Edition of Evening Idea Circle

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Centre for Youths Integrated Development (CYID) successfully launched the inaugural edition of the CYID Evening Idea Circle on August 14, 2026, at the CYID Youth and Migration Resource Centre in Badagry.

Designed as an energetic and highly interactive space, the maiden event brought together vibrant minds to collaborate, share innovative concepts, and tackle pressing socio-economic challenges, with a strong focus on Badagry’s booming tourism ecosystem.

Breaking Free from the "Rat Race"

Anchored by Mr. Victor Aihawu, Director of the Centre, the session kicked off with a compelling wake-up call on modern productivity and mindset shifts.

Aihawu warned participants against falling into the exhausting trap of the modern "Rat Race," noting that it poses severe adverse effects on personal businesses and long-term futures. He further highlighted a growing societal concern:

"Poverty today has become a lifestyle as most people become so comfortable with the little they are doing, some not seeing the need to learn more."

The discussion challenged attendees to step out of their comfort zones, embrace continuous learning, and pursue sustainable growth.

From Dialogue to Action: The Badagry Adventure Picnic

Staying true to its motto "Think. Share. Take Action" the Evening Idea Circle went beyond conventional roundtable discussions. The brainstorming session culminated in a concrete, actionable initiative: a pilot three-day unusual, unceremonial adventure picnic.

Curated around exploration, deep connection, and fresh discovery, this upcoming experience promises a revolutionary way to experience and appreciate Badagry's rich cultural and historical landscape.

The session was jointly facilitated by Mr. Victor Aihawu – Director, CYID and Sesede Simeon – Area Representative (West Africa), World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA)

Their combined expertise provided participants with invaluable global perspectives on tourism development, youth empowerment, and community-led innovation.

Described by attendees as spontaneous, engaging, and unforgettable, the maiden edition of the CYID Evening Idea Circle successfully fulfilled its core mission: bridging the gap between dynamic conversations and practical execution.

As CYID continues to pave the way for youth development and tourism in Badagry, stakeholders and participants eagerly anticipate the rollout of the pilot adventure picnic and future editions of the Idea Circle.

Think. Share. Take Action.

Outrage in Badagry as Nigeria Army Brutalises Food Vendor Over Delayed Meal

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE — Taiwo Hannah Zannu, a local food vendor at Oloroko along the Badagry-Seme Expressway, has been brutally assaulted by Cop. Joseph a soldier from 15 Field Engineer Regiment (Topo Barracks) attached to the Nigeria Customs, Seme border checkpoint at Oloko.

The incident, which occurred around 6:30 AM on Saturday, August 15, 2026, stems from a petty dispute over a food order at the Oloko Customs checkpoint.

According to Mrs. Zannu, the conflict began on the preceding Tuesday when one of the soldiers visited her shop to purchase beans. Upon discovering the food was not yet ready, the soldier confronted the vendor, questioning why she failed to open her shop as early as 3:00 AM a demand she noted was entirely unreasonable.

Reacted News: 

Customs, Soldiers brutalizes Badagry residents over video recording

When the soldier subsequently requested two eggs, an argument ensued after he began hurling insults at a member of her staff. Although bystanders intervened and managed to defuse the situation at the time, the soldier allegedly vowed to retaliate against Mrs. Zannu at the next opportunity.

The threats materialized on Saturday morning. Speaking with News Peddlers, Mrs. Zannu recounted how the ordeal unfolded

"This morning at about 6:00 AM, upon getting to my shop, I saw people gathered and talking. I asked what happened, and they said the soldier hit my staff on the head, threatening to deal with me. I then told my staff to follow me to the checkpoint to discuss with the Customs officers stationed there.

"On getting to the checkpoint, before I could say a word, the soldier sighted me, brought out a belt, and started beating me. His colleague joined in, while the Customs officers simply stood by and watched. In the process they took my phone, necklaces and all the money in my bag. It was the commuters in the area who rushed out to rescue me."

Following the attack, the victim visited Topo Barracks to formally report the incident. However, she stated that authorities merely took her statement and instructed her to leave. 

Mrs. Zannu disclosed that she has incurred medical bills exceeding N200,000 for her treatment and is urgently appealing to Nigerians for justice.

The Oloko Customs checkpoint previously designated as an illegal checkpoint by a former Customs Comptroller has a notorious reputation for human rights abuses against Badagry residents.

A notable prior incident occurred on December 1, 2024, when two transporters were assaulted at the exact same location merely for attempting to record a video to update their customers on their travel location.

As of the time of filing this report, all attempts to reach the 15 Field Engineer Regiment for official comments and reactions have been unsuccessful.

#OsunElection2026: Tension in Osun as Armed Operatives Seal Off State Assembly Speaker's Residence

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

OSOGBO, Nigeria — Security tensions flared on election morning in Osun State as the Imole Campaign Council (TICC) raised an urgent alarm regarding the heavy deployment of armed security personnel around the private residence of the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun.

According to official statements released by TICC spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbesi, Esq., a convoy of more than 10 black Hilux vans carrying heavily armed operatives descended upon the Speaker's compound, effectively locking down the premises and barring all occupants from exiting.

While details surrounding the operation remain fluid, the campaign council emphasized that the exact motives behind the heavy deployment have not yet been independently verified. Whether the armed personnel were dispatched to reinforce security or to execute official directives remains shrouded in uncertainty.

In a formal statement, the council voiced deep concern over the timing of the incident on a crucial election day:

"We have received reports that the residence of the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, has been surrounded by armed security personnel who reportedly arrived in more than 10 black Hilux vehicles... We have also been informed that the residence has effectively been sealed off, with everyone inside reportedly prevented from leaving the premises."

Efforts by the TICC leadership to secure immediate clarification from law enforcement authorities hit a brick wall. The council reported that multiple phone calls placed to the official mobile lines of the Commissioner of Police assigned to oversee the election and the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the poll went unanswered. Furthermore, attempts to contact the official Police Situation Room proved abortive, as the designated telephone line was reportedly switched off.

Expressing apprehension over the radio silence from security chiefs, the council underscored the critical need for a transparent and intimidation-free electoral atmosphere across Osun State:

"On this Election Day, the people of Osun State deserve an atmosphere free from fear and intimidation. Security deployments must inspire confidence and protect the integrity of the electoral process."

As voters head to the polls, the campaign council has urged higher security authorities to issue a prompt public statement clarifying the lockdown. TICC maintained that the democratic rights of citizens must be preserved without interference, coercion, or undue pressure.

"The people of Osun State must be allowed to come out peacefully and decide their future according to their own conscience, without intimidation or interference," the council reiterated.

Pharma Sector Eyes 70% Local Production Target, Urges FG to Slash Energy Costs

By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, Nigeria — The Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) has issued a vital call to action for the Federal Government. Industry leaders stress that unlocking Nigeria's full medicine security and achieving a 70% local production target hinges heavily on lowering soaring energy costs, streamlining port clearance, and strengthening active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) policies.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos ahead of the upcoming 8th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers’ Expo (NPME 2026), representatives underscored the urgent need for a competitive, investment-friendly ecosystem to drive sustainable growth across the nation's healthcare sector.

While celebrating monumental strides in domestic manufacturing highlighted by a sharp drop in imported finished pharmaceuticals from 4.03 billion units down to 1.13 billion units by 2025, according to NAFDAC data industry heads cautioned that operational bottlenecks continue to stifle potential.

"High energy costs and delayed clearance of pharma inputs remain a major threat to the competitiveness of local manufacturers," stated Pharm. Frank Muonemeh, Executive Secretary and CEO of PMG-MAN.

Muonemeh pointed out that local companies currently hemorrhage over 40% of their revenue on electricity and alternative power generation. In stark contrast, global competitors in manufacturing hubs like China and India spend less than 10% on energy, heavily disadvantaging Nigerian producers in regional and international markets.

To level the playing field, the group is urging the government to introduce targeted interventions, such as dedicated industrial energy tariffs, alongside robust policies backing the localized production of APIs and essential raw materials.

To cement recent gains and draw long-term foreign and domestic investments, PMG-MAN made a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. The association is pressing for the current two-year Presidential Executive Order supporting the pharmaceutical sector to be extended into a five-year framework.

According to leadership, predictable, long-term policy stability is non-negotiable for capital-intensive life science investments and advanced technology acquisition.

Representing the PMG-MAN Chairman and CEO of Daily-Need Industries Limited, Mr. Oluwatosin Jolayemi, the Chairman of the Exhibition Planning Committee and MD/CEO of May & Baker Nigeria Plc, Dr. Patrick Ajah, emphasized the sector's remarkable evolution.

"The sector has grown from 20 pioneer members in 1983 to more than 200 manufacturing companies, and remains firmly committed to reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported medicines," Ajah affirmed.

The momentum for domestic self-sufficiency will take center stage at the 8th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers’ Expo (NPME 2026), slated for September 28 and 29 at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos

Carrying the theme, “Regional Manufacturing: Advancing Africa’s Pharma and Life Science Sovereignty through Localisation,” the flagship event will convene over 200 exhibitors and nearly 10,000 industry professionals.

Geneith Health Competition Mobilises Nigerian Youth for a Malaria-Free Future on International Youth Day 2026

 By: Manoah Kikekon

ABUJA, Nigeria — As the global community marks International Youth Day 2026 under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” the Geneith Health Competition (GHC) has successfully mobilized Nigerian students nationwide to take a vanguard role in eradicating malaria.

The nationwide initiative received a massive boost as higher institutions—including Ekiti State University (EKSU) and Sahlan College of Health Science and Technology, Jos—formally committed to the campaign. With an unprecedented ₦1 billion prize pool at stake, the competition is bridging education and public health advocacy across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The GHC initiator and CEOAFRICA Managing Director, **Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, alongside the Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, **Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, extended warm felicitations to Nigerian youths. They emphasized that despite diverse socio-economic backgrounds, young Nigerians share a unified drive for wellness, quality education, and national prosperity.

"Young Nigerians, regardless of their backgrounds, share common aspirations for good health, quality education, meaningful participation, and a prosperous future. Malaria remains a major threat to these goals, and our youths have what it takes to turn the tide," Prince Ilobanafor stated.

Organisers noted that student participation has surged exponentially. Youths are increasingly stepping up as Malaria Ambassadors, driving grassroots awareness, digital health campaigns, and community sanitation initiatives to combat the disease at its roots.

The campaign's momentum reached a fever pitch as major tertiary institutions threw their weight behind the contest ahead of the October 30 registration deadline.

At Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, officially approved student participation, urging undergraduates to leverage the platform to showcase their intellect and compete for top academic prizes. Similarly, management at Sahlan College of Health Science and Technology, Jos, expressed unwavering institutional commitment, preparing their student body to make a profound impact in public health advocacy.

Chief Emmanuel Umenwa of Geneith Pharmaceuticals underscored that empowering the younger generation with health literacy and educational backing is a non-negotiable step toward a thriving nation.

Organised by CEOAFRICA, proudly sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals, and powered by *Coatal Forte Softgel*, the GHC offers a life-changing ₦1 billion cumulative prize pool**. The rewards encompass cash awards, educational scholarships, professional training, and learning materials spanning:

Junior Secondary Category,  Senior Secondary Category, Tertiary Institution Category

The competition roadmap kicks off with a virtual preliminary examination. The top 50 qualifiers from each state will subsequently advance to live public-health quizzes, regional face-offs, and the ultimate national grand finale.

Eligible students across the country are encouraged to sign up before the October 30 deadline by visiting the official portal at [www.geneithhealthcompetition.com](https://www.geneithhealthcompetition.com).

Badagry LG Chairman Hunpe Marks 1 Year in Office with Free NNPC-SNEPCo Medical Outreach

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

 Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Marking his first year in office has flagged off NNPC-SNEPCo Vision First Plus Programme. The milestone event also featured a passionate appeal to corporate partners for the establishment of a permanent eye care facility in the historic coastal town.

The five-day free medical outreach is organized by the Badagry Local Government in strategic partnership with NNPC Limited, SNEPCo, Kolmarg Eyesight Foundation, ExxonMobil, and AGIP. The comprehensive health intervention is currently taking place at the Ajara Flagship Primary Health Centre, Mango, Ajara, serving residents of Badagry and neighboring communities.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Hon. Hunpe described the initiative as a landmark solution designed to alleviate the health burdens of rural and underserved populations, particularly those battling preventable and treatable visual impairments.

He noted that specialized eye care has historically been a neglected area for many grassroots residents, who are often forced to endure long and costly journeys to central Lagos just to see a specialist.

 

"Eye care has for too long remained a neglected area. This intervention is helping to bridge a critical gap by bringing specialised services directly to our communities," Hunpe stated.

The council chairman emphasized that the medical outreach aligns seamlessly with his administration's vision of strengthening grassroots healthcare delivery under the Greater Badagry Rising Agenda.

Capitalizing on the momentum of the partnership, Hunpe made a compelling appeal to the corporate sponsors to extend their collaboration beyond the five-day window and invest in a permanent medical legacy for the local government area.

"We are ready to provide land and every necessary enabling environment for a permanent eye care facility in Badagry. Together we can make the dream of a Badagry Local Government Eye Clinic a reality for present and future generations," he added.

Representing the Executive Vice President of SNEPCo Exploration, the General Manager of Exploration and Development, Mr. Abubakar Ahmed, explained that the Vision First Plus Programme is structured to restore human dignity, confidence, and productivity by widening healthcare access in remote regions.

Highlighting the broader footprint of the initiative, Ahmed disclosed that the program has successfully:

Screened over 7,700 individuals.

Dispensed more than 2,058 prescription glasses.

Provided essential medications to over 3,170 beneficiaries.

Conducted more than 574 vision-restoring procedures, including life-changing cataract surgeries.

Echoing similar sentiments on behalf of the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Mr. Usman Muhammed Bello reiterated the corporation's unwavering commitment to sustainable community development through targeted health interventions.

Goodwill messages were also shared by top health officials from the Lagos State Government, including Dr. Ifeyemi Adediran (Director of Blindness Prevention) and Dr. Asiyanbi Oladapo (Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health District V), who both commended the synergy between the local government and corporate partners while urging residents to maximize the free services. Oladapo called more support from none Governmental organisations to further improve health facilities within the state.

The massive turnout on opening day underscored the critical need for accessible healthcare in the region. Official statistics from the opening day revealed: 583 total residents registered. 462 received nursing triage services. 377 underwent comprehensive laboratory investigations. 280 benefited from general medical consultations. 219 accessed specialized eye care services. 259 received free prescription medications. 38 successful eye surgeries were performed on the first day alone.

The medical outreach runs through Friday, August 14, offering a robust package of health services including eye screenings, cataract and pterygium surgeries, distribution of reading glasses and eye drops, cardiovascular screenings, treatment of minor ailments, and free medication dispensing.

Abbas, Bago, and Akume Call for Deepened Support for Community Pharmacists

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ABUJA— Key figures in the federal and state governments have rallied behind community pharmacists, urging stronger financial and structural backing to crash the cost of essential medicines and expand healthcare access across Nigeria.

The powerful call to action was issued at the 45th Annual National Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN). Held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, the high-profile summit ran under the theme “UNITY 2026: From Local Pharmacy Practice to Global Impact, Managing Complex Healthcare Systems.”

Representing House of Representatives Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the Chairman of the House Committee on Health Institutions, Hon. Amos Magaji, praised community pharmacists for promoting safe and responsible medicine use nationwide.

Echoing this sentiment, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, highlighted community pharmacists as vital frontline professionals who are indispensable in tackling medicine affordability and accessibility for vulnerable populations.

Akume pointed to recent interventions by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, notably the Executive Order suspending import duties, tariffs, and VAT on raw pharmaceutical materials and active ingredients to stimulate domestic manufacturing. However, he admitted that gaps remain, particularly in rural regions.

"We must ensure that pharmaceutical products available to Nigerians remain safe, effective, affordable, and of assured quality,"* Akume stated, urging pharmacists to intensify the fight against counterfeit medications and partner with government initiatives to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Representing Niger State Governor Umaru Bago, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana, advocated for public-private partnerships to integrate community pharmacies directly into primary healthcare networks and state health insurance schemes.

Governor Bago maintained that such structural integration provides a practical pathway to subsidizing retail medicine costs and easing the financial burden on everyday families.

Beyond government partnerships, the ACPN used its final communiqué to sound the alarm on a crippling brain drain that has seen over 9,500 pharmacists leave Nigeria in recent years. To secure the nation's drug infrastructure, the association submitted three major structural proposals to the Federal Government:

1. Stiffer Penalties for Counterfeiting: An amendment to the Fake Drug Act introducing mandatory 20-year prison sentences for first-time offenders and life imprisonment with total asset forfeiture for repeat dealers.

2. National Drug Management Agency: The creation of a dedicated agency to institutionalize the Drug Revolving Fund and manage the 10% essential medicines allocation under the Basic National Health Provision Fund directly, bypassing intermediaries.

3. National Postgraduate College of Pharmacy: Establishing a local postgraduate institution to cut down on expensive foreign training costs and preserve foreign exchange.

The week-long conference concluded with the election of a new National Executive Council for the 2026/2027 term, with Pharm. Ezeh Ambrose Igwekamma officially emerging as the National Chairman.

In his inaugural address, Igwekamma pledged a transformative tenure, calling on policymakers to quickly implement the summit's resolutions to transform community pharmacies into unstoppable pillars of affordable, world-class healthcare delivery in Nigeria.