Over 100 Badagry Residents Endorses Destination Lagos Award 2024

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Excitement is building across Lagos State as over 100 residents from Badagry have officially endorsed the upcoming Destination Lagos Award, set to take place on December 27, 2024, at JK Randle Cultural Centre, Onikan, Lagos, Nigeria.

This prestigious event, which celebrates the people, places, and organizations driving tourism and development in Lagos, promises to be a highlight of the festive season.

The enthusiastic support from Badagry residents underscores the community’s commitment to showcasing Lagos as a vibrant destination for culture, history, and innovation. Known for its rich heritage, serene beaches, and iconic landmarks like the Slave Trade Relics Museum, Badagry’s endorsement is a testament to the event's significance in uniting diverse communities under the shared goal of promoting Lagos' global appeal.

Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, the CEO Eko Destination Ltd, said, "The Destination Lagos Award is not just about celebrating achievements—it's about bringing the world to Lagos and showcasing our unique stories."

As the date approaches, anticipation grows for a night of glitz, glamour, and recognition. The event will feature awards across multiple categories, including tourism, entertainment, and innovation, alongside cultural displays that highlight Lagos' diversity.

"This award will shine a light on the beauty and potential of Lagos. We in Badagry are proud to support an initiative that highlights our cultural heritage and tourism opportunities." Viyon Hunsu, community leader.

"Badagry is ready to show the world what we have to offer. The Destination Lagos Award is an excellent platform for putting Lagos on the global tourism map." Tope George, a resident. 

"This is a proud moment for us. We’re excited to contribute to the success of this award and hope it attracts more visitors to explore our historical landmarks and natural beauty." Tunde Akpan, resident and entrepreneur.

"Lagos has so much to offer, and this event will unify our diverse communities. I’m thrilled to see Badagry actively involved in supporting this initiative. Agbogu Peace, makeup artist.

Stay tuned for more updates as Lagos prepares to take centre stage on December 27th!

2025 Chairmanship Election: Badagry Electorates endorses Babatunde Hunpe as preferred Candidate

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The electorate of Badagry has endorsed Babatunde Hunpe as their preferred candidate for the upcoming 2025 chairmanship election.

This decisive endorsement was made during a mobilization meeting organized by the Babatunde Hunpe Grassrooters Movement, held on Friday at Maupe Hall, Badagry.

The event was marked by a strong turnout of supporters and community leaders, all rallying behind Hunpe's vision for the future of Badagry. The presence of Babatunde Hunpe himself was a highlight of the meeting, providing him with the platform to articulate his ambitious plans under the "New Badagry Agenda."

In his address, Hunpe emphasized his commitment to sustainable development, inclusivity, and the empowerment of all Badagry residents. He outlined key initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities within the local government area. His speech resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom expressed their confidence in his ability to lead Badagry towards a more prosperous and progressive future.

The mobilization meeting not only served as an endorsement platform but also as a strategic session for the grassroots movement. Discussions were held on mobilization strategies, resource allocation, and the engagement of the wider community in the campaign. The endorsement ceremony was a focal point, with key stakeholders and community leaders formally signing documents to signify their support for Hunpe's candidature.

The Director General of the Babatunde Hunpe Grassrooters Movement delivered a passionate welcome note, highlighting the importance of unity and collective effort in achieving the movement's goals. The meeting concluded with a sense of renewed vigor and determination among attendees, all committed to ensuring Hunpe's success in the 2025 chairmanship election.

This endorsement marks a pivotal moment in Badagry's political landscape, setting the stage for what promises to be a transformative campaign under Babatunde Hunpe's leadership.

NYCN Badagry West Host's Lagos West Delegate Ahead State election

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN Badagry West LCDA chapter has hosted delegates from Lagos West Senatorial District ahead the state elections.

In a report made available to newsmen, signed by the coordinator, Aladeotan David, it stated that at the meeting, aspirants declared their intentions for the post of president and vice president.

The meeting was its first quarter general meeting, held on Saturday, January 27th. In 2024, where coordinators of local branches and heads of Voluntary Youth Organisations (VYOs) were present.

Aladeotan appreciated Hon. Gbenu Joseph Henugbe the local government chairman Badagry West LCDA for his consistent support to the success of the meeting.

The report read:

In preparation for the election congress of the NYCN Lagos State, also to ensure the unity of the Lagos West, the interested candidates for the positions of Chairman, VC West, and Organizing Secretary were asked to step out and make themselves known by the members of the district. For the chairman, we have Comr. Adigun Ibrahim, Comr. Agbaje Abdul Akeem, and Comr. Asade Abdul Salam. For VC West, we have Comr. Ajayi Abiodun, Comr. Aladeotan David, and finally, for Org. Sec., we have Comr. Oyewunmi Kareem, Comr. Kikelomo, and Comr. Ayobami Joseph.

In preparation for the 2024 election congress of the NYCN Lagos State, the members of the zonal committee made nominations for the individuals that will be representing the district at the CPC and ELECO as enshrined in the Constitution 2018 as amended. After the nominations, it resulted in voting, and members of the committee decided their choice in an option A4 approach of voting. However, the details of the report will be presented at the next state management meeting.

Report was presented by the PLAUDIT AWARD committee, and most importantly, the financial details of the event were made known. It was realized that the committee had some debts to repay.

Awards of commendation were presented to the NYCN Lagos West State executives in other to appreciate their support for the growth and development of the district.

The new constitution will be made available to members of the management, especially the coordinators of local branches that were inaugurated in this administration, at the next state management meeting.

On the Lagos West account, it was resolved that the leadership of the district should do the needful since the administration is winding up.

In the quest to round up this administration, the management of the district decided to embark on a leadership/legislative tour to Abuja with 'An evening with Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule, Senator representing Lagos West. 

Some of the local branches and VYOs submitted their reports of activities in the last six (6) months as requested; however, there is provision to reward those local branches and VYOs that comply.

Finally, the meeting was adjourned by Comr. Ayobami and seconded by Comr. Victor, while the vote of thanks was done by the host coordinator.

Approved:

Comr. Ademosu Jamiu

Vice Chairman, NYCN Lagos West

Signed:

Comr. Ajala Idris

Organizing Secretary, NYCN Lagos West

Comr. Aladeotan David

Coordinator, NYCN BADAGRY WEST LOCAL BRANCH.

Badagry Chairmanship: I am the best man for the job - Hunwi Solomon

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Hunwi Solomon Sewanu

Hon. Hunwi Solomon Sewanu, aspirant 2025 Badagry local government chairmanship election, has said people should support him as he is the best candidate.

Hunwi disclosed this in a conversation with News Peddlers after the meeting he had with Ward E leaders on Friday at Ajara-vetho, Badagry, Lagos State.

He said, the visit was to seek the permission, support, and blessing of the ward leaders.

Chief. Zannu Ogubiyi, ward E leader, said, "Hunwi is from humble parentage, he is honest, not augmentative, the sum total is that he can be trusted."

Hunwi said, "The ball has been kicked, the work has started, we are going to other wards to seek their cooperation too. Politics is a game of number. We can't do it all alone, we need the support of everybody.

"We want everyone to know they are important to us, and by the time we recognise them, they will be happy to show their cooperation and support."

I am suitable for this job in terms of the criteria needed by the INEC or LASIEC. In terms of experience, I am qualified and a grassrooter, I started my career as a classroom teacher at Ajara Grammer School, after many years, my service was transferred to the local government, which has taken me to various local governments in Lagos State."

He said when it comes to the administration of the local government, he is well grounded and will not disappoint them, as he knows what should be done.

"My people I need your support. By the special grace of God, I will not get there and disappoint you. What we need is socio-economic development, and grass-roots development works around socio-economic development. We have the land, skills, and people that can work. We know what is going on at the health and education sectors, and with the support of the people, we'll do our best to alleviate the suffering of our people through socio-economic developmental policies," he said.

Mr. Tanpinu Kuton, a member of Hunwi's team, said, "Hunwi was an administrator and had political will, when you talk about managing human resources and coming out with results, he is capable of doing that.

"This is not his first time running; I think at this point he deserves to be recond with, as a grass-roots politician. A person who really feels the need of the people. He knows each community in Badagry and what they need, as a person who was in charge of rural development. He knows how to engage the youth and help them develop their skills."

 

Youth Artisan Initiative, Allwell Ademola, celebrates Girl Child Day with over 2,000 students

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Mrs. Allwell Ademola and the students 

The Youth Artisan Initiative Foundation (YAIF) a youth-centric community-based organisation with an anchor vision of modelling youths to become models worthy of emulation in society in collaboration with Allwell Ademola, an actor and filmmaker, commemorated International Day of the Girl Child with over 2,000 students. 

 

The celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, according to the United Nations, is celebrated every year on 11th of October, but the Foundation decided to celebrate it on November 1st, 2023, at the French Language Village in Ajara, Badagry, Lagos State.

Princess Allwell Ademola and Sanni Oladapo 

Princess Allwell Ademola, an actor and filmmaker, said in her address to the students she spoke on, Investment in girls is the key to sustainable government, "parents should invest more in their girl child as the girls are now doing almost everything the boy child can do. Why can't we have a female president or governor? Because your mother understands your pain, which is why you go to her when you need something.

 

"Imagine when we have a female president. Now that everyone is crying about the economic conditions of the country, a woman will understand the condition of the people better. Not every man who comes to your house is your uncle; there's no way you can trust someone who is not related to you by blood. Don't visit any man without the consent of your parents. Make sure your parents are your friends and tell them everything you're going through."

In an interview with NewsPeddlers, "I feel good being among the girl child today. I felt emotional when I first entered the hall, as this is something I loved to do as a child. It's beautiful being among innocent souls. Mothers shouldn't let their children miss this subsequently.

 

"It is a beautiful event for young people to meet themselves and to learn. Parents need to be here too to learn something about how to raise their kids and how to help them in their careers to become better person. Every girl child should believe in themselves, believe in God, face their education, and go for what they intend to become in life. She further commented on the effort of the Youth Artisan Initiative Foundation and that they should do better in subsequent events", she said.

 

Sanni Oladapo, the Executive Director, Youth Artisan Initiative Foundation, said, "This is to tell the girl child that they are not weaker vessels, but they are unique in their own way. The girl child should hold firm, be steadfast, dream big, and achieve big. The turnout is very impressive; this place can't accommodate us again, and we have to look for a bigger venue for next year's programme."

 

Mrs. Mobosun Chinyere, the CEO of the Most Beautiful Girl in Badagry, said, "From my experience as a mother, every mother must have time for their kids, give them listening ears, and always pay attention to their children. Parents need to monitor the skills of their children; this will bring them closer, and parents should also find time to communicate with them."

The winner of the beauty pageant and Mrs. Mobosun Chinyere 

She pleaded with parents to allow their children to attend such events: "These girls will learn things about how to behave like a growing woman and how to arrange themselves so that people will not take advantage of them."

 

Benjamin Deborah, a JSS 2 student at Kesna College, said, "I learned today that all girls have to encourage themselves. As the male child is not better than us, the girls are a gift to this life. Girls need to be attending events like this, as it teaches girls how to build themselves up and to meet people who will tell them more about their lives." She appreciated the organisers for how composed the program was.

 

Mrs. Jonathan Rose, a teacher at Bokem School, said, "The notion that girl child life ends in the kitchen is very wrong, because this affects the self-esteem of the child, who can be easily misled by friends and peer pressure. The parents have more role to play in the lives of the children; the teachers will only try their best."

 

"I believe both the male and female child should be treated equally, as they can both become great," she said.

 

Mrs. Kate Okoye Onyekachukwu, a guest, said, "The girl child needs to hold on to their dreams and be forced in life; despite any life distraction, they should marry their book, as this is the means to get to where they are going in life.

Both male and female are important, and parents need to learn how to support their dreams."

 

Akinra Marry, a student from God with Us School, said "I learned that as a girl child, we should not look down on ourselves, as that happens for a reason, and that we should continue without giving up".

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Places To Visit: Badagry abandoned Uncompleted Door of Return Monument may collapse soon: BY: Seun Williams

BY: Seun Williams 

Aerial view of abandoned Uncompleted Door of Return Monument at the Point of No Return, Gberefu Beach, Badagry. [Credit: @BadagryFromAbove]

The Door of Return Monument is an abandoned, uncompleted monument at the Point of No Return, Gberefu Beach, in Badagry, Lagos State, Nigeria. The large structure was conceived to symbolise and inspire the return of descendants of African(-Americans) to their home continent after being forcefully removed from there to the Americas by European enslavers. 

The monument was created to replace and invert the essence of the former 'Point of No Return Monument' at the same spot. It was intended that the monument would drive intercontinental travel and heritage tourism and resettlement of Diasporic Africans on the West African Atlantic Coast.

Aerial view of the Door of Return Monument. [Credit: @BadagryFromAbove]

The construction of the Door of Return Monument was flagged off on 24 August 2017 by the then Senior Special Assistant to the Nigerian President on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs as part of the Badagry Diaspora Festival. It was planned that the project would be completed and unveiled a year later in 2018 as a permanent monument.

Related News:

Places To Visit: Badagry Slave Market Museum International

Aerial view of the Door of Return Monument and Atlantic ocean. [Credit: @BadagryFromAbove]

Sadly however, it is now 5 years since its commencement, and project is now completely abandoned. Some installations such as air-conditioners and iron bars, etc. have disappeared, perhaps pilfered. The anti-rust coatings which form its outer-most surface are rapidly disintegrating and falling off. The heavy metallic parts and iron beams are fast corroding. The carcass of this iconic Door has been left at the (non-)mercy of the harsh elements—the scorching sun, and salty, humid ocean breeze which causes metal to corrode 10 times faster. 

It is high time this dilapidating messy metal mass is pulled apart before it collapses on tourists and beach-goers.

There is an urgent need to salvage this ugly situation before a partial or complete collapse wrecks havoc to some locals, tourists and leisure seekers who regularly spend some time under the shade that the structure provides.

For more information visit: @BadagryFromAbove on Instagram.

Photo News: News Peddlers Celebrates Iconic Women's on International Women's Day

BY: Manoah Kikekon 

News Peddlers is celebrating International women's day with Iconic women's who have contributed and are still contributing extensively to the development of our society.

Funmi Unuajefe. A television producer and currently the head of Programmes at Plus TV Africa

These are international women who deserves some quantum of recognition for how well they have thrived  in their various aspect of life.

Omojare R Bisi. A Director in Lagos State Civil Service.

CEO. House of Marie fashion institute 

Amaka Akoma. A Hospitality/ Beauty Consultant

OKEKE Gloria Ngozi

. Public servant.

Igwe Onyinyechukwu. A teacher 

Osarennoma Ogbeide. Broadcast journalist and Content creator

Happy. A medical doctor, a content creator, fashion enthusiast/ stylist, a social media manager, model and a brand influencer

Igwe Anastasia.  An Events Decors and catering services.  A sales representative.

Ayo-Alake Bolanle. Director of Motiv8me Concepts, CEO of Delice Logistics services, and Ayo Apede YAHTAINMENT. A community organizer, social change agent, gender and human rights advocate, public speaker, consultant, communcator, content creator, youth leader and influencer, chanter and compere.

Juliet otonoh. An entrepreneur: Sells quality naija made wares 

Bukola Dotonu. A librarian  at olusegun Obasanjo presidential library

Olaleye Modesola Seun. A freelance makeup artist.

Grace. A lecturer, fashion designer and an entrepreneur

Gbemisola Dotonu. A front dest Officer

Happy International Women's day....

Naira Redesign: Nasir el-Rufai and Yahaya Bello appears in court

BY: Manoah Kikekon 

Nasir el-Rufai, Kaduna state governor, and Yahaya Bello, Kogi state governor

The supreme court is set to deliver judgment in the suit challenging the naira redesign policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Nasir el-Rufai, Kaduna state governor, and Yahaya Bello, Kogi state governor, are present in the court.

The governors were also in attendance at the last sitting of the apex court on the controversial matter.

Below are pictures from the ongoing court session.

Photo News: World Clean-up Day: Green Janitor Cleans 23 Locations Around Nigeria

BY: Manoah Kikekon 

Ashade Abdulsalam Abiodun the Executive Director of Green Janitor and Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende Pioneer RAK foundation celebrating World clean-up day at Yaba, Lagos State.

world clean-up day in Badagry, Lagos state

Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende Pioneer RAK foundation, celebrating World clean-up day at Yaba, Lagos State.  

Ashade Abdulsalam Abiodun the Executive Director of Green Janitor sustainable initiative, celebrated world clean-up day yesterday at 23 locations around Nigeria. With 20 Locations across Lagos and three Locations outside Lagos (Akwa Ibom, Ekiti and Ibadan).

Bello sheriff Adekunle the project coordinator for Badagry told News Peddlers that "Green Janitor is a youth-led organisation that makes sure that their environment is clean, creating awareness of the danger of living in a dirty environment."

World clean-up day at Round About-Badagry, Lagos State

Adekunle further said "We also train people on how to recycle plastics, because over the years people think if they have used plastic bottles that’s the end of it littering everywhere. But we as Green Janitors say NO to throwing away plastic bottles and that they are useful and also a way to create wealth for people which is the reason we are here today. To create more awareness on how to manage our waste and take good care of our environment.

"Plastic bottles can do several serious damages to our environment when it’s not properly disposed, it results in a series of health hazards, which is why I say keeping our environment clean will save us the money that would have been spent on treating sickness."

The appreciation message of Ashade Abdulsalam Abiodun the Executive Director of Green Janitor reads, "this year, Green Janitors commemorate World Clean-up Day 2022 in 23 Locations across Nigeria, With 20 Locations across Lagos and three Locations outside Lagos (Akwa Ibom, Ekiti and Ibadan). This won't have been possible without numerous change makers ranging from individuals, social organisations,  government,  private companies, youth organisations, community organisations etc who in one way or the other make this project a success."

"It is worthy to note and acknowledge all our partners, the list is numerous to mention: Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance Fbralliance, Nigerian Breweries Nigerian Breweries Plc, 7up, Nestle, Guinness, Action Gx, Janirak Recyclers,  Rotary and Rotaract Clubs, YALI NETWORK LAGOS YALI Network Lagos, Lagos State Waste Management Authority LAWMA, Lagos Recyclers LAGRA, Local Governments,  Youth Organisations, CDA's,  Ekiti  State Waste Management Authority, Oyo Waste Management Authority,   Akwa Ibom Waste Management Authority and host of others that we are unable to mention.  We are grateful and appreciate this partnership, we hope to sustain it in achieving SDG 17."

"We are highly indebted to all our wonderful and passionate team leads, you all are great leaders and best team players ever from Oguns Suliyat (Bariga), Mosope Coker (Yaba), Aishat Opeyemi (EPE),  Sheriff  Bello (Badagry), AbdulHameed Musodiq (LASU-OJO), Comfort  Olafare  (Ikorodu) Adeyemi Adesumbo (Somolu), Orunsolu Fausiyat (Isolo), Oyeboh Olamide (Lagos Island), Daudu Lukmon (Shibiri), Rabihat Rabiu (Iba), Oyebanji Oluwaseun (Mushin),Akombo Kenneth (Kosofe), Deborah  Aribo (Lagos Mainland), Ekwueme Divine (Ikeja), Salami Faruq (Agege), Kolawole Damilola (Alimosho), James Edmond (Ajeromi Ifelodun) Tunji Olapoju (Amuwo Odofin), Bababuso Oluwaseyi and Aminat Aliu (Akwa Ibom), Taiwo Awojinrin (Ekiti) to Akibu Mutiat (Ibadan). Thank you so much for making this happen, without you all, we won't have achieved this great success in commemorating World Clean-up Day 2022."

Sonate Zokoro at world clean-up day in Badagry, Lagos State 

"To all our volunteers, we can't repay your selfless services but we believe mother earth has a way of paying back, let's keep doing our best in giving back to our immediate community through volunteering, the rewards are enormous. May God reward us all.

"On a final note, beyond the clean-up, we hope that we have also been able to send an advocacy message to the public on proper waste separation from source. 

"We implore you to have a disciplined mindset towards waste, if we can separate our waste from source and stop indiscriminate waste disposal into our drainage system, streets etc. We all would achieve a sustainable environment and healthy livelihood. We owe the environment protection and preservation. Let's reduce the damage we cause on it, the effect is always on us at the end."

Mrs. Adenuga Olusola the environmental officer in Badagry local government official who was part of the clean-up with her team told News Peddlers that "as we all know we receive what we give to our environment."

"If the drainages are filled with waste it results in flood. I will plead with the people to clean up their environment, this is very important and it’ll add to the quality of health. When you have sound health you will have a good life."

Raheemah Balogun at world clean-up day

The Local government chairman Hon. Olusegun Adeniran Onilude has been working extremely on waste disposal in Badagry currently, there is an ongoing parking of refuse at Ajara along the new-market road. She added.

World clean-up at Ikeja, Lagos State 

World clean-up day in Ibadan, Oyo State

World Cleanup Day is an annual global social action program aimed at addressing the global solid waste problem, which includes marine debris. The global organization Let's Do It! World coordinates it, with its headquarters in Tallinn, Estonia. The date for the next World Cleanup Day is September 16, 2023. 

Every year on the third Saturday of September, World Cleanup Day is celebrated for 24 hours.

 The goal of World Cleanup Day is to raise awareness of the mismanaged waste crisis by mobilizing all sectors of society to participate in cleanup efforts. Individuals, governments, corporations, and organizations are all encouraged to participate in cleanups and find solutions to waste management issues.

There are numerous organizations around the world that organize and host World Cleanup Day events. World Cleanup Day, like Earth Day, is non-partisan and apolitical, with no affiliation to any national or global political party or discrete ideology.