LASU Students Accuse University of Withholding Loan Funds, Threatening Graduation as Portal Closure Looms

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Lagos State University 

Several students of Lagos State University has cried out as the University withholds students loan and still insist the students pay school fees, threatening to close course registration portal ahead exam.

For Grace (not her real name), a final-year student at Lagos State University (LASU), the Federal Government’s student loan was meant to be a lifeline. Instead, it has become a source of paralyzing debt and administrative nightmare. With the university threatening to shut its fees portal by December 31, 2025, Grace like many others faces being locked out of her academic records, despite LASU allegedly holding her loan funds for months. “They have my money, my parents were forced to pay again, and now they say I could be barred,” she shared anonymously, her voice laced with panic. “This loan I must repay is doing me no good.”

A major scandal is brewing at Lagos State University (LASU) over the alleged mismanagement of the Federal Government student loan scheme. Multiple student sources accuse the university administration of withholding disbursed loan funds, forcing double payments from parents, and failing to process refunds for close to two months. This crisis threatens to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s flagship education intervention, designed to ease economic hardship for Nigerian families.

The Core Allegation - Sabotage of Scheme

The students’ ordeal began when LASU allegedly threatened to deactivate its school fees portal, pressuring parents to pay upfront. Subsequently, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) disbursed the approved loans directly to the university. When students requested the received funds be applied to future sessions, they were reportedly told university policy mandated a refund to their personal accounts—refunds that have allegedly never materialized.

Deepening Crisis & Impact

The situation has created a chaotic financial trap. Some students, fearing academic disruption, paid fees a second time while LASU held their loan money. Consequently, the university is now accused of holding up to two years' worth of fees for some students. Disturbingly, the issue spans all levels: from current 200 to 400-level students to some who have already graduated, yet cannot clear their financial records with the institution.

Call to Action & Federal Investigation

Calls are now mounting for the Tinubu administration to launch an immediate investigation into what is being termed a deliberate “sabotage” of the student loan programme. Advocates argue that LASU’s actions not only burden families but also risk destroying confidence in a critical policy, as students remain saddled with debt for money they never benefited from.

Policy Recommendation & Wider Implication

To prevent future occurrences, stakeholders are urging a fundamental policy shift: student loans should be paid directly to beneficiaries, not institutions. “The loan is a student’s debt, not the school’s,” one source emphasized. This pattern, reportedly observed in other institutions, highlights a systemic vulnerability in the loan scheme’s current architecture.

Final Appeal & Deadline Pressure

All eyes are now on the LASU management led by Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello. There is a fervent appeal to suspend the December 31, 2025, portal closure deadline, conduct a transparent audit, and expedite refunds to all affected students. Furthermore, students with verified loan approvals are pleading for academic grace to continue their studies uninterrupted, pending the resolution of funds they are certain the government has released.

Iworo Ajido Old Students Cry Out Over Alma Mater's Dilapidated State, Urge Lagos Govt to Act

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

 

Dilapidated structures 

The Iworo Ajido Model College Old Students Association, Badagry (IAMCOSAB), has issued a passionate plea to the Lagos State Government to rescue their alma mater from severe infrastructural decay. Donating chairs, desks, and cash prizes to students.

The call was made during the Association’s Annual General Meeting and Reunion on December 26, 2025, held on the school’s premises. the celebratory mood was overshadowed by dismay at the school’s worsening physical state, which alumni described as a betrayal of its legacy.

Mr. Oyedele Okelowo, National President of IAMCOSAB, painted a stark contrast between the school’s past and present. "I finished in this school in the 80s, and I remember we even had a laboratory for science students," he recalled. 

"In as much as we acknowledge the Lagos State Government is trying, our assessment over the last two years shows that government presence is desperately needed here. We serve more than seven communities, with over 1,000 students at times. This school needs prototype structures; it was classified as a modern school but never got them. It’s in the budget, but it never actualizes. This school has produced great people, and the government needs to act now."

Echoing this urgency, the National Secretary, Mr. Mufutau Musibau Olusegun, highlighted the decline from the institution's former glory. "When we were in school, this was one of the best schools in Badagry. Now, the infrastructure is nothing to talk about," he stated. 

"It’s so bad that from 1 p.m., teachers cannot stay in class due to overcrowding and heat. Come 2026, the Lagos State Government needs to do something here." His comments underscored the critical impact of dilapidation on daily learning and teaching efficacy.

Professor Olusegun Whenu of Lagos State University, an alumnus from the 1983 set, pointed out the glaring neglect. "All I can see are the old buildings we used then; there’s a great level of degrading," he said.

"While government cannot do everything, what of corporate social responsibility from nearby industries? The alumni are giving back, but students need an enabling environment. Some classes have no doors or windows; some roofs are leaking." His remarks called for a multi-stakeholder approach to address the crisis.

Prince Adebayo Kamoru, who graduated in 1994/95, gave an emotional account of the conditions. "What I met today is not commendable at all. Last time, I met students sitting on the floor, using stones as desks, or their mother’s wrappers. I shed tears," he shared. 

"The government needs to intervene urgently. Prototype structures and furniture are needed. The only buildings are the ones we used back then, and student population must be controlled." His testimony highlighted the human toll of the infrastructure deficit.

Despite the somber findings, the reunion served as a nostalgic gathering and a catalyst for continued advocacy. The alumni’s annual walk-through the compound a tradition to assess needs left them resolved to amplify their call.

 

The school, which has produced numerous professors, journalists, and business leaders, stands at a crossroads. IAMCOSAB’s donations are a stopgap, but as President Okelowo emphasized, only sustained government action can restore Iworo Ajido Model College to its former stature and secure the future of Badagry’s children.

ATPN South West Awards 13-Year-Old Badagry Tour Guide as Tourism Rising Icon

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Samson Nunayon Apata, Awal Abass and chief Patrick Mobee 

The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), South West Region, has honoured 13-year-old Awal Abass as a "Tourism Rising Icon." 

The prestigious award was pronounced on December 6th 2025, during the 1st South West International Tourism Expo 2025, held at the iconic Lagos Airport Hotel, Lagos and was formally presented to him on December 24th, 2025 at the historic palace of Chief Patrick Mobee, the Mobee of Boekoh, Badagry kingdom, Lagos State during a brief visit to Badagry on Wednesday by the National Vice President of ATPN South West Region.

This recognition spotlights not just an individual prodigy but the untapped potential within Nigeria’s local communities to drive cultural tourism.

The award culminated a meticulous selection process initiated ahead of the Expo. Hon. Samson Nunayon Apata, National Vice President of ATPN South West, revealed that delegations were dispatched across the six states in the South West to identify unique destination stories. 

"During our preparations for the International Tourism Expo held from December 5 to 6, 2025, our team in Lagos discovered Awal Abass," Apata stated. "His unique style of curating at the Brazilian Barracoon in Badagry, stood out remarkably. He was duly nominated as the Youngest Tourism Icon, emerged the winner, and we are here today to officially present his well-deserved award."

The presentation was made by the royal host, Chief Patrick Mobee, who linked Abass's achievement directly to the power of education. In his address, Chief Mobee championed academic investment, stating, "This young boy has been able to achieve this because of the education he has... If he had not gone to school, he wouldn't be able to do what he did. I know some older than him at the destination who can't do what he did." 

His words underscored a vital message: that formal learning is a critical foundation for innovating and promoting Nigeria’s heritage effectively.

The newly crowned icon, Awal Abass, expressed profound gratitude to the ATPN South West for the honour. In his acceptance, he assured stakeholders of his unwavering commitment to leveraging his newfound platform. 

Abass pledged to "put his best in tourism promotion in Badagry and in Lagos State," signalling the dawn of a fresh, energetic voice in Nigeria’s tourism sector. This event marks a significant moment for Nigerian tourism, highlighting how nurturing young talent and combining local knowledge with education can create powerful ambassadors for the nation’s cultural and historical treasures.

NYCN Lagos West VC Sunday Aladeotan Applauds Badagry West LCDA's New ICT Centre

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Sunday Aladeotan, Ibrahim Rauf and the new ICT centre 

BADAGRY WEST LCDA – Sunday Aladeotan, the Vice Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos West, has publicly hailed Hon. Ibrahim Rauf popularly known as RIKAY the chairman Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) as he inaugurated a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centre. 

The project, a highlight of the 100-day celebrations of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Ibrahim Yenaren Rikay, has drawn commendation from youth leaders across Lagos.

Aladeotan commended the Chairman and the council's management team, led by Eng. Akande Lawrence, for the timely initiative. Aladeotan described the centre as a fulfillment of campaign promises and a critical step towards equipping the youths with in-demand technology skills.

“This initiative is a welcome development and part of the campaign promises of the chairman to equip youths in technology and to encourage continuous engagements of the youths,” Aladeotan stated. “This will go a long way in engaging and building Badagry West youths.”

The centre launched with an immediate, practical impact. Twelve pioneering participants, carefully selected from across the five wards of Badagry West LCDA, have commenced training. This first batch is expected to complete their upskilling program by next year, paving the way for a new cohort to enroll, ensuring a continuous cycle of empowerment.

The initiative is strategically designed to combat youth idleness, bridge the digital divide, and create a pipeline of tech-savvy individuals ready to contribute to the local and national economy.

In his praise, Aladeotan extended gratitude to the council leadership for prioritizing youth-friendly policies. “I want to appreciate the chairman and the management for enhancing youth-friendly and development policies,” he added. The establishment of the ICT centre is seen as a cornerstone of this developmental agenda, directly addressing the need for sustainable skills in a rapidly digitalizing world.

Lagos State Partners BWBS to Unlock Free Study Abroad Scholarships for Youth

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Mobolaji Ogunlende and Mohammed Walid 

Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development has met with the CEO of BWBS Education Consultants, Mr. Mohammad Walid Hossain, to discuss a collaboration aimed at expanding access to world-class universities for students across the state, leveraging BWBS’s renowned expertise in global education placements.

BWBS, a UK-based agency certified by the British Council, ICEF, and Trinity College London, and listed as a UCAS-registered agent, brings a wealth of credibility and resources to the table. The firm specializes in guiding students through the complex processes of securing international admissions and visas. 

During the courtesy visit to his office on Thursday, Commissioner Ogunlende emphasized that the core of their discussions was a strategic collaboration designed to unlock unparalleled study-abroad opportunities, focusing on both academic advancement and long-term career growth for Lagos residents.

A highlight of the proposed initiative is BWBS’s commitment to providing free admission and visa services, significantly lowering the financial and bureaucratic barriers for students. Furthermore, the partnership will prioritize unlocking exclusive scholarship opportunities to make international education more accessible.

“BWBS Education Consultants supports young people in pursuing international education and career prospects,” Ogunlende stated, underscoring the potential to empower a new generation of globally competitive talent from Lagos.

Commissioner Ogunlende expressed strong optimism about the partnership’s future impact, stating, “I look forward to exploring meaningful partnerships that will open global pathways and empower the future leaders of Lagos.”

EXCLUSIVE: Inside Badagry’s Dilapidated Methodist School Where Students Learn Under Trees

 By: Manoah Kikekon

 

Students in dilapidated classrooms of Methodist primary school Erekiti 

Residents of Erekiti community in Badagry, Lagos State, have raised an urgent alarm over the rapidly deteriorating state of Methodist Primary School, Erekiti a once-prestigious institution founded in 1955. The school, which has produced generations of educated Erekiti indigenes, now stands as a shadow of its former self, with only one building remaining. 

Locals are now appealing to the Lagos State Government and the Badagry Local Government to step in before learning conditions worsen further.

According to teachers and parents who spoke to News Peddlers, the school’s infrastructure has all but collapsed. Out of several buildings, only a single six-classroom block remains functional. Due to overcrowding and intense heat inside, many pupils are forced to take lessons under trees. 

"We merged two classes together, and some students sit outside under trees because the heat in the classrooms is unbearable," a teacher revealed. This makeshift arrangement disrupts learning and exposes children to weather extremes.

 

The only building at Methodist Primary School Erekiti 

Security is another major concern. The school lacks a perimeter fence, leaving students vulnerable. A parent emphasized, "The safety of these children needs to be prioritized. We have tried to get the government’s attention, but nothing has been done." The absence of a fence not only compromises security but also allows distractions and potential threats from outsiders, adding to the community's growing anxiety.

Frustration among Erekiti residents is compounded by what they describe as years of political neglect. One resident recalled that former two terms Lagos State House of Assembly member Hon. Suru Avoseh who is from Erekiti and once taught at the same school, failed to initiate any lasting educational projects in the community. 

"We were unfortunate. Even with his connection to the school, no block was set here during his tenure, aside from the abandoned road projects he claimed as achievement" the resident lamented.

  

The school’s plight mirrors broader infrastructure decay in the area. Another local highlighted the terrible state of roads leading to the community, describing them as nearly impassable during rainy and dry seasons. 

"If not for our personal efforts buying sand to fill potholes the road would be completely useless. Our suffering increases daily," he said. This neglect has made accessing the school even harder and reflects a wider pattern of abandonment in one of Lagos’s historic coastal communities.

With Methodist Primary School Erekiti on the brink of total collapse, residents are making a heartfelt appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and relevant education authorities to intervene swiftly. They stress that restoring the school is not just about rebuilding walls it is about preserving a legacy and securing the future of Erekiti’s children. As one parent put it, "This school made us who we are. We cannot watch it collapse".

Hunpe's 100-Day: Badagry Chairman Commissions Projects, Launches N400m Cash Transfer, and Renames Historic Streets

 By: Jossa Rafiu 

BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE – In a landmark event marking his first 100 days in office, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, has not only commissioned completed projects but also launched a series of ambitious new initiatives, signaling a dynamic start to his administration. 

The celebration, held on Saturday, November 29th, 2025, was a vibrant display of community engagement and a bold statement of intent for the historic coastal region.

A Promise Delivered: From Classrooms to Clinics

In his address to a packed gathering, Chairman Hunpe reaffirmed the commitment made upon assuming office. “Today’s gathering is a reaffirmation of our unity, our shared aspirations, and our unwavering commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Badagry,” he said.

 He highlighted key deliverables including the full reconstruction of classroom blocks and offices at L.A. Primary School, Yafin, and the remodelling of the Pota Primary Health Centre a project he noted was inspired by a public outcry and completed with “transparency and urgency.”

A New Dawn for Education in Yafin

During the commissioning of the L.A. Primary School in Yafin, Hunpe connected the project to his administration's core philosophy. “Today’s event is a celebration of infrastructure and our collective belief in the power of education to transform lives,” he said, noting that the previously unconducive learning environment now reflects the dignity desired for the children and teachers of Badagry.

Responsive Governance: The Pota PHC Turnaround Story

Perhaps the most symbolic project was the commissioning of the remodelled Pota Primary Health Centre. Hunpe recounted how the facility's deplorable state, which went viral on social media, became a catalyst for action. “We saw the outcry not as an attack, but as a call to action. We listened to the people. We accepted responsibility. And we moved immediately to correct the situation,” he stated, encapsulating the responsive spirit that has defined his first 100 days in office.

Beyond Infrastructure: A Holistic Development Push

Hon. Hunpe detailed programs already implemented, including the flag-off of the Asiwaju Food Palliative Programme reaching 2,000 families, a Jigi Bola and Free Health Mission, and the construction of three roads. He also emphasized strides in tourism development and support for traditional institutions, asserting, “These achievements reflect one thing: Badagry is moving forward.”

N400 Million Lifeline: Launching a Major Cash Transfer Scheme

Refusing to rest on these laurels, Hunpe used the occasion to launch a fresh set of initiatives. The most significant is a ₦400 million Conditional Cash Transfer Programme, inspired by the progressive philosophy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The program is designed to support 4,000 beneficiaries over 20 months to strengthen household income, encourage small-scale trading, and support widows. “This is not politics; this is purposeful social investment,” the Chairman stated.

Tackling Urban Challenges: Cleanliness and Youth Empowerment

Directly addressing local challenges, the administration commissioned brand-new waste tricycles to enhance sanitation and reduce illegal dumping. In a move to bolster the local economy, 100 POS operators were empowered with tools and financial support, targeting young entrepreneurs. “Good governance must reflect in the cleanliness of our streets, and we are committed to delivering just that,” Hunpe remarked.

Bolstering Security: Strengthening the Zangbeto Tradition

Acknowledging security as a top priority, the administration announced concrete support for the Zangbeto, the revered local traditional policing system. The Chairman confirmed that the Zangan units are being equipped and supported to enhance their operations, improve surveillance, and strengthen community safety, reinforcing the link between security and prosperity.

Honouring Legacy: Immortalizing Badagry's Luminaries

In a powerful gesture linking the past to the present, Hon. Hunpe announced that major streets would be renamed to honour four illustrious sons of Badagry. Hospital Road will be named after Senator Solomon Tanimomo Hunponu-Wusu (MON); the historic Mission Street will bear the name of Late Dr. Sunny Akinsanya Ajose; and Agric Road, Ajara, will be renamed after Hon. Moses Hungbo Owolabani, immortalizing their contributions for generations to come.

Badagry West Chairman Transforms Sawa School, Total Renovation for Methodist Primary

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Rauf Ibrahim and Sawa, Methodist Primary School 

BADAGRY WEST, LAGOS – Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren (RIKAY) has launched a comprehensive renovation project at Methodist Primary School in Sawa. This initiative underscores a firm commitment to reversing the trend of infrastructural decay in local government schools.

The announcement was made public on Wednesday by Solomon ZOSU, Chief Press Secretary for Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA). 

The project is a two-phase intervention aimed at drastically improving both the security and the learning environment of the school. Before the renovation of the classrooms began, the council had already initiated the critical task of constructing a new perimeter fence around the school premises.

The first phase of the project, focusing on security and aesthetics, is now nearing its conclusion. The new perimeter fence has been fully erected and beautifully painted, effectively enhancing the school's appearance while ensuring the safety and security of both pupils and staff. This crucial step addresses long-standing concerns about the vulnerability of the school compound and creates a defined, protected space for learning.

With the fencing project almost complete, the renovation phase is now in full swing. The focus has shifted to the classroom blocks, where workers are actively replacing damaged roofing sheets and carrying out essential structural repairs. Following the repairs, all buildings will receive a fresh coat of paint. This holistic approach is designed to transform the school into a clean, safe, and inspiring place for children to learn and teachers to teach.

Hon. RIKAY emphasized that the facelift is specifically designed to restore Methodist Primary School, Sawa, to a modern standard. He stated that the project directly addresses the long-neglected infrastructural needs that have plagued pupils and teachers in the community for years. The Chairman reiterated his administration’s unwavering dedication to prioritizing education as a cornerstone of community development.

50 Abducted Niger State School Pupils Allegedly Flee Captivity, 253 Remain Held

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

ST. Mary's Catholic Secondary school 

In a dramatic turn of events, fifty students abducted from St. Mary’s Secondary and Primary School in Niger State have Allegedly escape their captors. The children, who were seized during a violent raid by bandits, found their way to freedom between Friday and Saturday, reuniting with their overwhelmed and relieved families.

The update was confirmed by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State. Bulus Yohanna, the state CAN chairman and proprietor of the Catholic school, released a statement verifying the escape. "This is to notify the public that as at Sunday, 23rd November, 2025, we have received some good news, as fifty pupils escaped and have reunited with their parents," the statement read.

The same statement delivered a sobering counterpoint: a total of 253 people remain in the hands of the bandits. This figure includes 236 primary pupils, 14 secondary students, three children of school staff, and 12 staff members themselves. Their continued captivity has cast a shadow of anxiety over the Papiri community in the Agwara Local Government Area.

The abduction began in the early hours of Friday when armed bandits stormed the school premises. The assailants shot the security guard on duty before herding the children and staff into captivity. In response, security agencies and local vigilante groups are now intensifying their efforts to locate and rescue the remaining hostages.

This incident at St. Mary’s School is the latest in a devastating wave of mass school kidnappings plaguing northern Nigeria. The persistent targeting of educational institutions has heightened national outrage and triggered renewed, urgent calls for the government to implement stronger security measures to protect students and teachers in vulnerable regions.

3HF Unites Lagos Stakeholders Against Exploitation of Child Domestic Workers

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

IKEJA, LAGOS – The Hearts and Hands Humanitarian Foundation (3HF) has organised a Child Rights and Safeguarding workshop, uniting key stakeholders from government agencies, NGOs, and community groups. 

The event, held on November 20, 2025, at Ikeja, Lagos State  funded by the Freedom Fund, served as a critical platform to align strategies and reinforce the legal and moral imperative to protect Child Domestic Workers in Lagos State against exploitation.

Cordelia Otutu, Case Officer for 3HF, provided a sober yet hopeful perspective on the foundation's mission. She emphasized that eradicating child exploitation is a gradual process, stating, "This is not what we can do at a go." 

Highlighting 3HF's tangible impact, Otutu revealed recent successes, including enrolling a victim in vocational skill acquisition and providing psychosocial support for several others. She issued a call to the public, urging a shift in mindset: "Every child is equal and deserves to be treated equally all employers of domestic workers need to treat them right."

Mrs. Agboko Comfort, Zonal Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Lagos Zonal Command, clarified the agency's stance. "We don't support using children as house help; our laws do not allow it," she stated unequivocally. 

Comfort explained that NAPTIP's role is to ensure these children are not abused and to advocate for their good treatment. She issued a stern warning to potential offenders, detailing the punishment for abuse as "a minimum of three months imprisonment or a maximum of two years." Her message was clear: "NAPTIP is saying no to child abuse."

Olajumoke Otitoloju, Project Coordinator for Iyaniwura Care Foundation and an advocate for persons with disabilities, praised the initiative as an "eye-opener." However, she strongly advocated for taking the message directly to the local communities where exploitation is most prevalent. "Awareness is important because some don't even know that it is a crime against the right of the child," Otitoloju noted. 

She called on the government to intensify enforcement and reduce the bureaucracy that hampers the effectiveness of child protection laws and policies, urging communities, "when you see something, say something."

Amans Precious, a Child Protection Welfare Officer with the Lagos State Government, stated that programs like the 3HF workshop "cannot be overemphasized because this is a continuous process." 

Precious confirmed that the government is working to create enabling environments to address these situations but stressed that vigilance and proactive measures are crucial. "It is not enough to just say what we see," she asserted. "There is a need to take action at every moment to make sure their matters are addressed so that the children are always protected."

Journalist Manoah Kikekon Vindicated as FUST is Established in Epe, Not Badagry

By: Amin

Federal University of Technology Badagry and Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, Lagos – Prominent journalist and social advocate, Manoah Kikekon, has declared a full vindication after a year of public criticism, following the official confirmation that the proposed Federal University of Science and Technology (FUST) has been established in Epe, Lagos State, and not in Badagry as initially proposed.

Kikekon revealed his sense of validation in an exclusive conversation with News Peddlers on Tuesday, marking the culmination of a year-long saga that began with a crucial alarm he raised in 2024.

The controversy began just one year ago when Kikekon received intelligence from a source in Abuja. "Just a year ago, I got an intel from a source from Abuja who told me to inform all Badagry stakeholders to take swift action," Kikekon recounted. "The Federal University of Science and Technology, which was being proposed for Badagry at the Federal House of Representatives, was about to be moved to another location."

Related News: 

Tinubu's Approval for Epe, Kachia, and Ogoniland Universities Preceded Seven-Year Ban: Minister 

After conducting further findings that confirmed the process was already underway, Kikekon took to his social media handles to alert the community. The information quickly spread among Badagry stakeholders.

However, his warning was met with swift denial from their elected representative. A few days later, Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, the Federal House of Representatives Member for Badagry Constituency, issued a press statement dismissing the claims. The statement labeled Kikekon a "mischief maker" and asserted that the information was "total misinformation."

"At the time, people called me various names," Kikekon recalled. "Some said I was the enemy of Badagry. But I realized the case was further tabled at some high places, which was why I just kept quiet on other information I got on moving the institution."

The journalist's silence was broken by recent events that proved his initial warnings correct. Just days ago, the Federal Government officially announced the establishment of the Federal University of Science and Technology in Epe, Lagos State.

This announcement serves as the definitive confirmation that the institution was indeed relocated from its originally proposed site in Badagry, vindicating Kikekon exactly one year after he first raised the alarm.

In a statement that dashes any remaining hopes for a reversal, Kikekon added, “And for those hoping that Badagry's own will still come, I will like to let you know that the Federal Government has placed a seven-year ban on the approval of new universities in Nigeria.”

This federal moratorium effectively closes the window for any immediate rectification, cementing the loss of the project for the Badagry community.

Addressing potential community reactions, the advocate said. “For those that are planning to fight against the establishment of the institution in Epe, I'll like to remind you all that Badagry people are peace-loving people,” Kikekon stated.

The bill for the establishment of the institution, which has now culminated in the siting of the university in Epe, was said to have been facilitated by Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan. It was sponsored by Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, the Member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Finance. The bill was presented for its crucial third reading on May 6, 2025, by the House Leader, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere.

For the people of Badagry, the establishment of FUST in Epe represents a significant lost opportunity, compounded by a federal ban on new universities. For Manoah Kikekon, it is a hard-won moment of truth after a year of being vilified for sounding an alarm that has now been proven tragically accurate.

Tinubu's Approval for Epe, Kachia, and Ogoniland Universities Preceded Seven-Year Ban: Minister

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Bola Tinubu and Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa

The Nigeria Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approvals for three new specialized universities were granted months before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) imposed a seven-year moratorium on establishing new federal tertiary institutions.

This clarification comes in response to earlier media reports that suggested the President's recent signing of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, establishment bill contravened the government's own policy. The ministry has moved to dispel notions of a policy inconsistency, providing a detailed timeline of the approvals.

According to the ministry, a single executive memo signed by President Tinubu prior to the FEC’s decision included the establishment of not only the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, Lagos State, but also the Federal University of Science and Technology, Kachia, Kaduna State, and the Federal University of Environment and Technology in Tai and Koroma, Ogoniland, Rivers State.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, had previously defended the seven-year suspension as a necessary measure to address critical challenges within the existing education sector. He cited widespread infrastructural deficits, chronic underutilization, and declining academic standards as the primary reasons for the pause.

“Several federal universities operate far below capacity, with some having fewer than 2,000 students,” Dr. Alausa stated. “If we want to improve quality and not be a laughing stock globally, the pragmatic step is to pause new institutions.”

The recent announcement of the Epe university’s establishment followed its formal passage into law. Senate President Godswill Akpabio confirmed last week that President Tinubu had signed the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe (Establishment) Bill 2025.

The Ministry explained that the delay between the initial executive approval and the final presidential assent was purely procedural. The Senate had entered its annual recess before the bill's final passage, which postponed its formal transmission to the President for signing, an event that only occurred earlier this month.

The newly established Federal University of Science and Technology in Epe is designed as a specialized institution focused on driving innovation in critical, modern fields. Its curriculum will center on emerging disciplines such as artificial intelligence, software engineering, and data science. This strategic focus aligns with Nigeria’s national digital economy objectives and complements the growing industrial corridor around Epe and Ibeju-Lekki.

In a firm statement, the Ministry of Education reiterated its full commitment to the seven-year ban. Folasade Boriowo, the Director of Press and Public Relations, stated, “The Federal Government remains fully committed to enforcing the seven-year moratorium on establishment of new federal tertiary institutions, and this moratorium remains sacrosanct.”

NIS Seme Border Launches Nationwide Sensitization against Smuggling of Migrants

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, Nigeria – In a decisive move to combat a rising national crisis, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) launched a massive nationwide Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Sensitization Campaign on Tuesday, October 4, 2025. Under the resonant theme, “Say No to Migrant Smuggling,” 

The event at the ECOWAS Auditorium, Seme Border, Lagos State, united a powerful coalition of security agencies, international organizations, and crucially, leaders of motorcycle riders and drivers unions, who are often on the front lines of this illicit trade.

Comptroller Abdullahi Adamu, Comptroller Seme Command highlighted the severe dangers of irregular migration, stating it “poses significant risks to individuals, communities and the nation… leading to exploitation, human trafficking and loss of life.” 

He affirmed that the Seme Border Command and Border Patrol Command are fully committed to combating the scourge. Acknowledging the root causes economic hardship, conflict, and lack of opportunities Comptroller Adamu was clear: “Irregular migration is not a solution to these challenges.” 

He revealed a multi-pronged strategy involving strengthened border surveillance, new control measures, and a collaborative framework with community leaders and international partners, emphasizing that this fight “is not for immigration alone.”

Comptroller Peter Adache of the Border Patrol Command delivered a stark presentation on the dangers of irregular migration. He defined the issue broadly and highlighted the extreme vulnerabilities faced by migrants, including discrimination, exploitation, and abuse. In a chilling warning, he stated, “We have heard stories where those who emigrated irregularly are being killed, used for rituals, or gone through organ harvesting.” 

Charting the way forward, Comptroller Adache stressed the importance of a legal framework, which guides officers in the field and is embedded in Nigeria’s Immigration regulations. He also underscored the Service's commitment to leveraging modern technology to address the evolving challenges of 21st-century migration.

ACD IO Ologwu, S.A to the DCG Border Patrol Command, Abuja, delivered a presentation titled “Safeguarding Our Future: The Role of Border Communities and Law Enforcement Agencies in Preventing Irregular Migration for National Security and Economic Stability” 

The presentation laid out the severe national security implications, directly linking irregular migration to organized crime like drug and arms smuggling, and a heightened risk of potential terrorism. It further warned that an influx of irregular migrants can fuel social unrest, xenophobia, and compromise the very integrity of Nigeria’s borders, making them difficult to control effectively.

The campaign moved beyond identifying problems to championing a collaborative model where border communities and law enforcement agencies act as inseparable partners. The resounding message was one of shared responsibility and opportunity. By working together, stakeholders can transform migration from a national threat into a managed process that contributes to mutual growth and resilience. 

WAEC Debunks Rumors Says No Subject Restrictions for 2026 WASSCE Candidates

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Students seating for examination 

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has denied issuing any directive that restricts subject choices for students preparing for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The examination body, in a statement released on Tuesday, labeled the viral social media reports as "unfounded assumptions" and urged schools and the public to disregard them entirely.

The statement, issued by the acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adeshina, on behalf of the Head of National Office, sought to clear the air amid growing confusion. It clarified that the Council is not the source of such directives and remains focused on its assessment role.

WAEC's statement was unequivocal in its denial. “The Council wishes to categorically distance itself from this unfounded assumption and the information making the rounds on the said subject,” the announcement read.

It further clarified, “The Council did not issue any such directive(s) nor restrict the choice of students to offer any particular subject(s) for WASSCE (SC) 2026 as alleged.”

Emphasizing its specific mandate, WAEC explained that it does not create or modify the senior secondary school curriculum. That responsibility, it noted, rests solely with the Federal Government through its relevant education authorities.

“The development and regulation of Curricula in Nigeria is within the purview of the Federal Government. WAEC, as an examination body, only comes in to implement government policies via assessment,” the Council stated.

The statement reassured all stakeholders that any future changes to the educational curriculum would be communicated through official channels after due process, and not introduced arbitrarily via social media rumors.

Concluding its clarification, WAEC advised schools, parents, and students to depend only on its official communications for accurate information regarding the 2026 WASSCE.

“Schools, stakeholders, and the general public are hereby advised to disregard the misleading reports and rely solely on official communications from the Council for accurate information regarding examination guidelines for WASSCE (SC) 2026,” the statement concluded.

From Assembly Lines to Amen: Badagry, Lagos Factories Silently Morph into Churches

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Bottle of Limca and people praying 

The sprawling complex at Ibereko in Badagry, which for decades hummed with the machinery of the Femstar Nigeria Bottling Company, producer of popular soft drinks like Limca, Goldspot, and Parle Soda, now stands silent. But its silence is not one of abandonment; it has been broken by a new sound: the sound of hymns and prayers. The recent conversion of this former industrial hub into a church has become a potent symbol of a deeper economic malaise gripping parts of Lagos, raising critical questions about the state's industrial priorities.

Socio-economic analyst Okulaja Olawale Kehinde, in a widely circulated Facebook commentary, described the development as representing "a deeper economic and social decline." He noted that the factory was once "the pride of Badagry," providing direct employment to thousands and indirectly supporting a vast network of suppliers, transporters, and local traders. "When a production company folds up and its factory is converted into a church, the consequences extend beyond job losses," Olawale stated. "It marks the death of industrial productivity and the birth of economic dependency in that community."

The situation in Badagry is not an isolated incident. A cursory look across Lagos reveals a pattern of de-industrialization. In the **Ikeja industrial area**, once the heartbeat of Nigerian manufacturing, several factories have scaled down operations or closed entirely, with some properties being repurposed for commercial retail or offices. Similarly, in Amuwo Odofin, known for its manufacturing and logistics hubs, some industrial plots have given way to residential estates and mega-churches. The conversion of the Femstar plant is, however, one of the most stark examples, moving directly from a production line to a place of worship without an intermediate commercial use.

Analyst Okulaja Olawale Kehinde draws a sharp distinction between the economic roles of factories and churches. He argues that while churches provide essential spiritual guidance, they "do not replace the economic productivity that factories generate." He elaborated, "Instead of producing goods and services, they depend on the offerings and tithes of members—funds that are often not reinvested into manufacturing or employment generation." This, he warns, creates a cycle where a community's economic base shrinks, making it more reliant on external sustenance.

The analyst places significant blame on weak government policy. He highlighted a lack of intervention when factories face distress and contrasted Africa’s approach with that of developed economies. "In developed nations such as the United States, Germany, Japan, or South Korea, it is almost unthinkable for an industrial plant to be converted into a religious center," Olawale said. He urged African governments to enact robust industrial protection laws, strengthen public-private partnerships, and establish recovery funds for distressed manufacturing firms to prevent the continued loss of productive assets.

The conversion has also stirred strong reactions from the public, capturing the frustration of many Nigerians. A social media user, Morris Popularly known as Popsy Jadon, captured the irony succinctly: 'In Africa, a whole Factory will be converted to a worship center and people will gather there every Badagry market day to ask God for A Job....! I no too holy ooooo....But We no really serious for Africa, Nigeria in particular.' This sentiment reflects a growing concern that the nation is prioritizing faith over tangible economic production.

Okulaja Olawale Kehinde concluded with a stark warning and a clear message for policymakers. "Africa cannot develop by turning its factories into churches," he asserted. "Worship without work is a dangerous path to national poverty. Religion should uplift the human spirit, but industry sustains human life." He described the transformation of factories into religious centers not as a sign of progress, but as a "clear symptom of Africa’s economic misdirection." The fate of the Limca factory in Badagry serves as a critical case study and a wake-up call for Lagos State and Nigeria at large.

NYCN Lagos West to Host Badagry Youth Security Summit to Confront Multiple Checkpoints

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, Lagos – The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos West Senatorial District, in collaboration with the Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has announced the Badagry Youth and Security Summit. 

The event is scheduled for October 30, 2025, at the Suntan Beach Hall in Badagry, Lagos State, bringing together community leaders, youth, and security agencies to find lasting solutions to the menace of multiple checkpoints, extortion, and harassment.

The summit, themed “Strengthening Security Without Abuse and Extortion: Addressing Multiple Checkpoints for National Safety and Public Trust,” aims to bridge the critical gap between effective security and the rights of citizens. 

The event will be hosted by Hon. Ibrahim Rauf Yemaren, Executive Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, with co-hosting duties shared by Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, and Hon. Kumayon Ajose Peter, Executive Chairman of Olorunda LCDA. This tripartite governmental backing underscores the urgency and importance of the issue at hand, highlighting a unified front from the region's leadership.

The convener, Comrade Aladeotan David, Vice-Chairman of NYCN Lagos West, sounded the alarm on the excessive and often exploitative activities at the numerous security checkpoints along the vital Lagos-Seme Expressway. 

"The excesses are becoming alarming, ranging from extortion, harassing residents, and most importantly, affecting the economy of Badagry," David stated. He emphasized that the summit serves as a critical roundtable discussion to engage security agencies directly and seek actionable solutions. 

"This is an avenue to get possible solutions to this issue, as it won't be the best if the youth decide to take the laws into their hands," he added, advocating for dialogue as a peaceful and constructive path toward restoring public trust and safeguarding the economic vitality of the Badagry community.

Art Exhibition, Showcasing student's talents at ASCON Staff Secondary School Topo _ Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a vibrant celebration of youthful creativity, the Fine and Applied Arts Department of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) Staff Secondary School has successfully launched its inaugural art exhibition, titled "The First of the Series." Which also featured the official launch of the exhibition catalogue.

Is held on Thursday at the ASCON Staff School Multipurpose Hall in Topo Idale, Badagry, Lagos State, marking a significant milestone for arts education in the region.

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, lending his support through his representative, Pascal Ajande. In his address, Ajande commended the students for their hard work and ingenuity. "Exhibitions like this one provide a platform for you to demonstrate your skills and learn from one another," he stated. 

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ASCON Launches Inaugural Art Exhibition Set to Showcase Student Talent

He urged the young minds to dream big, emphasizing their power to shape the future. "Your exhibits today demonstrate your potential to make a positive impact in the world. I urge you to continue nurturing your talents and interests," the Commissioner's message concluded, reinforcing the government's focus on youth empowerment.

Mr. Mukaila Yusuf, the coordinator of the art exhibition, expressed his astonishment and delight at the turnout. "This looks very interesting to me; I didn't know people could turn up this much," Yusuf remarked. "It don't even know this even can happen as being the first attempt, I only said let me just try but fortunately the trial turned out to be successful." 

He noted that the patronage was promising for a first effort and expressed confidence that future editions would see even greater engagement. He also had a message for parents: "The parents should allow the children to choose their career and they should support them," championing the importance of parental support in nurturing artistic passions.

The Principal of ASCON Staff Secondary School, Mr. Senapon Medemaku, described the exhibition as an "eye-opener." Medemaku praised the students and teachers for the outstanding display of talent and promised that this was only the beginning.

 "Subsequently, people should be expecting more as we are going to encourage our students and the teachers to do better," the Principal stated, adding that it serves as a challenge to other departments within the school. Medemaku also advised parents to "encourage their children, especially those that are bringing out the creativity in them," and urged students not to be "shy to showcase their talent."

"The First of the Series" has firmly planted ASCON Badagry on the map as a budding hub for artistic innovation. Being the first Secondary school to have organised and art exhibition in Nigeria. The event successfully provided a tangible platform for students to showcase their work, receive commendation from high-level officials, and ignite crucial conversations about career choices and talent development in Nigeria.