Lagos To Generate 250 Billion Dollars From Waste-To Wealth Initiative

The Lagos State Government and other key stakeholders have intensified their commitment to environmental initiatives, aiming to tap into Nigeria’s $250bn green economy potential.

During the 6th Lagos Waste Forum held in Lagos, leaders from the public and private sectors converged to discuss strategies for transforming waste into a driver of economic resilience.

According to a statement, the SWEEP Foundation NG organised the event, with support from UNIDO, the European Union, and Coca-Cola Nigeria, under the theme ‘The Power of Nigeria’s Waste Economy’.

The Special Adviser on the Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasised the state’s strategic role in Nigeria’s circular economy. He noted that while the city generates massive waste, it also offers a goldmine for innovation.

“Lagos generates vast quantities of waste, but within this challenge lies a significant opportunity, one realised through structure, innovation, and entrepreneurial intelligence,” the Governor’s representative stated.

He further explained that agencies like the Lagos Waste Management Authority, under the leadership of the Managing Director, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, are building an integrated framework. He said this framework “positions Lagos as a hub of circular economy innovation.”

A representative of the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance provided a breakdown of the sector’s financial promise. The representative cited the Federal Government and UNDP’s Imagine Nigeria report, which identifies a green economy potential of up to $250bn.

“Circularity is not just an ecological necessity but a strategic pathway to jobs, innovation, and environmental protection,” the FBRA official noted. The alliance highlighted that Nigeria produces 32 million tonnes of waste annually, with Lagos alone generating N18bn in recycling value in 2021.

The President and CEO of SWEEP Foundation NG, Obuesi Phillips, described dumpsites as emerging “waste mines.” He advocated for the creation of a Ministry of Waste Resources and a dedicated Green Bank to offer single-digit interest loans to waste-to-wealth entrepreneurs.

The Ogun State Commissioner for the Environment, Dr Ola Oresanya, delivered the forum’s lecture, stressing the need for evidence-based interventions. He urged governments to move beyond mere policy declarations to achieve sustainable environmental results.

“Solutions must be guided by research, innovation, and evidence-based interventions tailored to Nigeria’s local contexts,” Oresanya said. He also called for a technically skilled environmental workforce across all levels of government.

Other notable attendees included the Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Titi Oshodi; the Executive Director of Circular Economy Innovation Partnership, Natalie Beinisch; and UNIDO Field Coordination and Gender Expert, Emem Umana.

The forum concluded with participants pledging to prioritise financing, technology adoption, and community engagement. The stakeholders agreed that these pillars would accelerate Nigeria’s transition to a resource-efficient and climate-smart waste ecosystem.

 

Read More

Five Vehicles Burnt As Petrol Tanker Burst Into Flames Along Epe-Ijebu-Ode Expressway

No fewer than five vehicles were razed in a fire incident that occurred on Wednesday along the Epe–Ijebu-Ode Expressway in the Eredo Local

Council Development Area of Lagos State.

 It was gathered that the fire began when a 45,000-litre tanker conveying diesel lost control and fell on its side.

 The fall reportedly caused the tanker to spill its contents on the road before it was engulfed in flames.

 The impact of the blaze was said to have destroyed four other vehicles that were parked along the road.

 Eyewitnesses confirmed that at about 1:50 a.m., a fully loaded tanker plying the expressway suddenly lost balance, fell, and burst into flames, causing

widespread destruction.

 Several vehicles on the road were completely razed as the inferno spread rapidly.

 Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service,

Shakiru Amodu, disclosed that the tanker, with number plate KWK 833 SK, was conveying diesel when it fell while climbing a hilly part of the expressway.

 He identified the vehicles destroyed in the inferno as a Mazda car, a Nissan car, a Honda Accord car, and a Toyota Hilux, in addition to the tanker.

 “The incident happened at about 2 a.m. We received a distress call and upon arrival at the scene, discovered that a 45,000-litre tanker loaded with diesel

had fallen and spilled its contents on the road before being engulfed in fire.

 “Firefighters were able to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other areas. Four vehicles parked along the road, as well as the tanker,

were razed. No life was lost in the incident,” Amodu said.

 

Read More

How Lagos Provost Bagged 3-Year Jail Term For Forgery

A Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja on Wednesday convicted and sentenced the provost of Adonai Advanced Institute of Management, Samson Orijugo, to three years’ imprisonment for forging a notification of result on the letterhead of Lagos State University.

Justice Modupe Nico-Clay convicted Orijugo on a two-count charge of forgery, holding that the prosecution proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

The court found that Orijugo, in 2015 at Badagry, forged a notification of result issued to a student, John Chibuzor Okoro, using LASU letterhead to falsely represent that Adonai Institute was affiliated with LASU.

Orijugo was arraigned on December 2, 2021, pleaded not guilty, and the trial began on March 8, 2022.

The prosecution, led by Mrs T. Olanrewaju-Daud, called three witnesses and tendered seven exhibits, while Orijugo testified in his defence.

In her judgment, Justice Nico-Clay held that the notification of the result tendered before the court was issued by the convict and was forged.

She relied on evidence establishing that Adonai Institute had no affiliation with LASU, contrary to the representations made to the student and his mother.

The first prosecution witness, Patience Okoro, the student’s mother, testified that Orijugo introduced himself as the provost of a Benin Republic-based institution affiliated with LASU.

She said he issued her son a notification of result on LASU letterhead after completing his studies.

Okoro told the court that she met Orijugo on May 12, 2012, in a commercial bus while returning from Iyana Oba Market.

According to her, Orijugo spoke about Adonai University, gave her flyers, and claimed the institution was affiliated with LASU.

Okoro explained that she expressed doubts because she was a LASU graduate and had never heard of such an affiliation, but Orijugo insisted that the university was one of the best in the Benin Republic and affiliated with LASU.

Okoro later visited Orijugo’s residence with her son, where he showed them transcripts translated into English on LASU letterhead.

Okoro further testified that she made independent enquiries at the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja, where officials said the school was recognised but were unaware of any English or French sections.

 

Read More

Driver Flees As Truck Runs Into Commercial Vehicles In Alimosho

Two persons have been confirmed dead, while three others sustained injuries following a multiple-vehicle collision at Iyana Meiran in the Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The accident, which occurred on Meiran Road near the Primary Health Centre, involved a silo mixer truck, a commercial minibus and four tricycles.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Taofiq Adebayo, stated that preliminary findings indicated that the silo mixer truck, allegedly driven at high speed, suffered brake failure, lost control and rammed into the vehicles.

The impact, according to the agency, led to severe damage, with several commuters trapped in the wreckage.

“Preliminary security findings revealed that the tragic occurrence was triggered by a Dangote Silo Mixer Truck, which, while being operated at an inordinately high speed, suffered a sudden brake failure and consequently lost control.

“The runaway truck forcefully rammed into a commercial minibus, popularly referred to as ‘Korope’ (EPP 541 YF), as well as four tricycles (Marwa): KTU 360 QN, LND 444 QL, LSR 444 QN, and EKY 122 QP.

“The violent impact culminated in extensive destruction, trapping commuters amid mangled vehicles and twisted wreckage,” the statement partly read.

Adebayo added that LASTMA officials, with the assistance of passersby, rescued three critically injured victims from the crushed vehicles and immediately evacuated them.

According to him, LASTMA officials immediately cordoned off the entire corridor and instituted comprehensive traffic control and diversion measures to ensure the safety of responders and forestall secondary collisions.

He further stated that security operatives from the Meiran Police Division were also alerted, with the Divisional Police Officer leading officers to the scene to provide security during rescue and recovery operations.

The driver of the Dangote mixer truck, however, reportedly fled the scene after the crash, while the remains of the two deceased victims were handed over to the police, who conveyed them from the scene with an ambulance.

Reacting, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

 Bakare-Oki urged motorists, especially operators of heavy-duty vehicles, to ensure that their braking systems and other critical components are in good condition before embarking on any journey.

He also warned against speeding, noting that mechanical negligence and excessive speed remain major and avoidable causes of fatal road crashes in the state.

“He reiterated the Agency’s unwavering commitment to the preservation of lives and property on Lagos roads and re-emphasised the critical obligation of all motorists, particularly operators of heavy-duty and articulated vehicles, to ensure that their braking systems and other vital mechanical components are thoroughly inspected and certified roadworthy before embarking on any journey.

“Mr Bakare-Oki further admonished drivers to adhere strictly to government-regulated speed limits, stressing that mechanical negligence and excessive speeding remain persistent and avoidable causes of fatal road crashes.

“LASTMA once again appeals to all road users to exercise utmost caution, prioritise vehicle roadworthiness and uphold traffic regulations in the collective interest of public safety across Lagos State,” the statement added.

 

Read More

Detty December Boxing Tournament: "Why Fighting In Lagos Means Everything To Me" - British-Born Nigerian Heavyweight, Lawrence Okoli

British-Nigerian heavyweight contender Lawrence Okolie says fighting in Lagos carries deep personal meaning as he prepares to make his African debut at Chaos in the Ring II on Sunday, December 21.

The two-weight world champion and WBC number one heavyweight contender will headline his first professional fight on African soil when he faces Ghanaian powerhouse Ebenezer Tetteh at the Detty December Festival Grounds in Lagos.

“Fighting in Lagos means everything to me,” Okolie said.

“This is where my family is from. This is the dream. Under the Detty December lights, I’m putting on a show you won’t forget.”

Born in London to Nigerian parents, the 33-year-old Okolie won the WBO cruiserweight title in 2021 with a sixth-round knockout of Krzysztof Glowacki, successfully defended the belt, and later captured the WBC bridgerweight world title before moving up to heavyweight.

Standing in his way is Tetteh (23-3, 20 KOs), a rugged Ghanaian veteran known for his durability and knockout power. Tetteh recently went seven hard rounds with British heavyweight contender Dillian Whyte and has vowed to push Okolie into a gruelling test.

The event, broadcast live worldwide on DAZN, is being staged by former world champion turned promoter Amir Khan and Ezekiel Adamu, CEO of Balmoral Group Promotions, following the success of the inaugural edition in October.

“This card is here to make a statement,” Dr Adamu said.

“Africa is ready to host the biggest nights in world boxing, and Chaos in the Ring II is proof.”

Khan added, “I’ve fought all over the world, but this Lagos card is special. Okolie headlining in Africa for the first time, a stacked heavyweight lineup, and Detty December behind us, we are giving fans a night they’ll never forget.”

The co-main event features towering French heavyweight Tony Yoka (14-3, 11 KOs), the 2016 Olympic super-heavyweight gold medallist, who faces German veteran Patrick Korte (23-5-1, 19 KOs) in a ten-round contest as Yoka seeks a return to world title contention.

The undercard includes two all-Nigerian six-round bouts with Basit Adebayo (9-0, 4 KOs) facing Sikiru Shogbesan (23-3-1, 10 KOs), and Isaac Chukwudi (5-3-1, 3 KOs) versus unbeaten puncher Raheem Animashaun (18-0, 12 KOs).

Further action sees Ghanaian super middleweight Elvis Ahorgah (15-4, 13 KOs) take on rising British star Harley Benn (9-2, 1 KO), while unbeaten prospects Shiloh Defreitas (6-0, 3 KOs) and Taye Fajimi (10-0, 4 KOs) clash in a compelling matchup.

The night also features a four-round women’s contest between Nene Joy Ojo (2-1, 2 KOs) and unbeaten Sandra Darkwah Boateng (5-0).

 

Read More

I Cut Short My Mainland Party Concert Due To Safety Concerns, Afrobeatts Rising Star, Fola Apologizes To Fans

Afrobeats singer, Folarin Odunlami, popularly known as Fola, has apologised to fans after his first headline performance at the Mainland Block Party was cut short due to safety concerns caused by overcrowding at the venue.

The incident happened on Monday, December 15, in Lagos, when a large turnout of fans reportedly pushed attendance beyond approved limits, forcing organisers to halt the show over safety concerns.

According to reports from fans and organisers, the crowd became uncontrollable, raising fears about safety as movement inside the venue became difficult.

Some ticket holders also complained that they were denied entry despite purchasing tickets sold in batches.

Fola, who managed to perform briefly before leaving the stage, addressed the situation on Tuesday via his X handle, where he took responsibility for the disappointment felt by fans and explained that safety informed the decision to stop the show.

“My people, I’m really sorry about how last night went,” the singer said.

He also expressed concern over reports that some fans sustained injuries during the disruption, stressing that such incidents should never occur at live shows.

“People were hurt, and that should never happen. I had to stop the show because safety comes before anything else,” he said.

The singer assured fans that their voices had been heard and promised that efforts were ongoing to address the situation and make amends.

“I hear you on all fronts, and we’re working to make things right,” he added.

The concert, which had generated excitement among fans of the 2025 Afrobeats breakout star known for songs like Lost and Bye Bye, sparked widespread backlash online.

Many social media users blamed both the organisers and the artiste’s team, citing poor planning and weak crowd control.

Reacting separately, Dangbana Republik, the record label Fola is signed to, also released a statement on X acknowledging lapses during the event and restating its commitment to fan safety.

“We acknowledge the serious safety issues that occurred at the event organised by Mainland Block Party,” the label said.

The label confirmed that the venue exceeded its capacity, creating what it described as unsafe conditions.

“The venue capacity was exceeded, resulting in unsafe conditions that should never have happened,” the statement said.

It added that the decision to halt the performance was taken immediately once it became clear that fans were at risk, noting that discussions were ongoing with the organisers.

“Once it became clear that fans were at risk, the performance was stopped immediately. We are working with the organisers to ensure adequate measures are taken to address the concerns of those affected. Your safety remains non-negotiable to us,” it added.

 

Read More

The Efficacy Of Blood Transfusion In Lagos May No Longer Be Guaranteed If JOHESU's Strike Is Allowed To Go On, Lab Directors Warn Sanwo-Olu

 The Guild of Medical Laboratory Directors (GMLD), Lagos State chapter, has called on the Lagos State Government to urgently intervene in the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU).

The appeal was made in a statement signed on Wednesday by the chairman, Adekoya Abimbola Julius, and the secretary general, Dr Leo Aniakor.

In the statement, the guild said the strike has begun to affect healthcare delivery across the state, particularly laboratory services critical to patient care.

“The withdrawal of services at screening centres has significantly constrained critical laboratory testing required for safe blood transfusion and effective patient management,” the guild said.

It warned that the disruption is already causing delays in diagnosis and treatment, adding that such delays pose serious risks to lives.

“These disruptions are causing avoidable delays in diagnosis and treatment, thereby placing the health and lives of Lagos residents at serious risk,” the statement added.

The guild also expressed concern that investments made by the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee could be undermined if the strike continues.

It said, “The notable progress and investments made by the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee in strengthening safe and reliable blood services may be eroded if the industrial action persists.”

Calling for dialogue, the guild stressed that no Lagos resident should suffer preventable illness or death over issues that can be resolved through negotiation.

“No resident of Lagos State should suffer preventable illness or loss of life over matters that are ultimately resolvable through dialogue and negotiation,” it said.

The guild urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to use his office to facilitate engagement among all parties and bring the strike to a peaceful end.

The appeal comes amid the decision by JOHESU and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations to continue their ongoing indefinite strike.

The unions had earlier vowed not to suspend the industrial action unless the Federal Government addresses their demands, particularly the implementation of the adjusted Consolidated Health Salary Structure.

In an interview with journalists, National Secretary of the unions, Martin Egbanubi, said the strike would continue, insisting that the government had failed to act despite meetings held since the action began.

“For now, we have resolved to continue the strike. We met with the government twice since the commencement of the strike, and nothing has changed,” Egbanubi said.

He added that the unions would not accept intimidation or sanctions against their members, stressing that the delay in implementing the adjusted CONHESS since 2022 remains the core issue.

Egbanubi also accused successive administrations of failing to address salary disparities among health workers, noting that the unions had narrowed their demands to the implementation of the adjusted salary structure.

JOHESU, which commenced the nationwide strike on November 15, 2025, represents several unions, including the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria, the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals, and other health sector staff associations.

 

Read More

Wike's Faction Dissolves PDP's Exco In Lagos And 13 Other States

The National Working Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dissolved the party’s state executive committees in Lagos state. Also dissolved were the executives of Delta, Kano, and 11 other states. The party also declared that it remains “strong, united and indivisible” under a single, legitimate leadership.

Rising from its meeting held         yesterday, the committee issued a communiqué in Abuja, insisting that there is only one recognised PDP leadership under the chairmanship of Abdulrahman Mohammed.

The committee dismissed claims in some quarters that parallel party executives had been recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning individuals and groups “bent on bringing the image of the party into disrepute” to desist immediately.

According to the committee, reports suggesting that an “illegal” executive loyal to Tanimu Turaki had been accepted by INEC were false.

“The claims making the rounds in the media that the Turaki illegal executives have been accepted by INEC are untrue,” the committee said, challenging Turaki to produce “the code with which he uploaded his executives to the INEC portal.”

The caretaker committee further ratified the dissolution of some state working committees and confirmed the constitution of caretaker committees to oversee party affairs in the affected states.

The dissolved state working committees are those of Borno, Bauchi, Oyo, Zamfara, Yobe, Ekiti, Bayelsa, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Delta, Taraba, Kano and Lagos states.

In a move aimed at strengthening internal administration, the committee also assigned portfolios to some of its members. Professor Adenike Ogunse was named Women Leader; Engineer Deji Dohati, Deputy National Secretary; Senator Olaka Ogunwu, Treasurer; Hon. Jungu Haruna Mohammed, Publicity Secretary; while Ambassador Dr. Ibrahim Bala-Aboki was assigned to function as Youth Leader.

The committee approved a calendar for the conduct of state congresses, scheduled to commence on January 9, 2026. It noted that the date for the national convention would be fixed only after the successful conclusion of the state congresses, adding that a detailed timetable would be released in due course.

In his opening remarks, the Acting Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, thanked the party leadership, the Board of Trustees, and the party’s leader and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for entrusting the committee with a 60-day mandate to oversee party affairs.

Mohammed said the caretaker committee was determined to ensure that the PDP’s activities across the federation were conducted in line with the party’s constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I want to use this opportunity to call the attention of the public who may be hearing and seeing gatherings and meetings here and there. The public should not be panicked. We have only one PDP under my leadership and my team as the caretaker committee of our great party,” he said.

According to him, the committee is well aligned with the law and has the capacity to manage the day-to-day affairs of the party nationwide.

“With this, I want to assure everyone, especially the press, that there is only one recognised PDP leadership under my chairmanship,” Mohammed added.

 

Read More

How God Saved Me From Masturbation, Smoking, alcoholism - Nollywood Actress, Tonto Dikeh

Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh has disclosed that she began smoking at the age of 13 and suffered with the addiction for 27 years.

The actress revealed this during a Sunday sermon at Streams of Joy International Church, where she also spoke about her struggles with alcoholism, masturbation, and long-term rage.

Dikeh described her addictions as “demonic oppression,” and credited her release from them to divine intervention, stating that she began to see improvements once her spiritual life improved.

Speaking before the congregation, the actress said she began smoking at the age of 13 and struggled for years with alcohol and masturbation, attributing her transformation to divine intervention.

“I smoked since I was 13. God healed me from masturbation, too. I have known myself to have sexual intercourse in the dream ever since I was a child,” she said.

She described her appearance at the altar as both a testimony and thanksgiving, noting that she almost withdrew over concerns about her public image.

“The devil tried to tell me that I was supposed to protect my image. But I told myself, what image? The God that gave me the image is the same God that can take it away,” she said.

Dikeh further explained that after attending the Ghana Prayer Conference, she noticed a change in what she described as years of spiritual oppression.

“I realised that the weak man who held me captive all my years in my dream ran away,” she said, adding that the experience marked a turning point in her spiritual life.

The actress also spoke about struggling with what she called “demonic anger,” which she said previously affected her relationships and personal life.

“An anger that destroyed my life. Everybody had to feel it. But praying with NSPPD, God took all of those away and gave me peace,” she said.

According to her, she had never experienced peace until recently.

“I am 40 years old, and I can tell you I have never known peace until now. I am living in it,” she said.

Dikeh revealed that her smoking habit lasted for about 27 years, which she said began after exposure at home, urging parents to keep harmful habits away from their children.

“I started smoking because my dad was a smoker. Something as little as that habit can inhabit the lives of your children,” she said.

 

Read More

Don Jazzy Slams Critics Who Accuse Him Of Helping Only Women

            Nigerian music icon, Don Jazzy, has slammed critics who say he helps only women. The critics came for him after he donated an undisclosed amount of money to one Itohan via X. Responding, Don Jazzy addressed allegations that he only supports women: “Don’t do that. What exactly did she do wrong? I like to help people when I can. I asked for her wish, and she stated she wants to help people, too.

“We all have our wishes, whether big or small. I immediately noticed that people started dragging her, so I entered her DM to try to save her from the long talks on the timeline.

“Also, not to be like I just raised her hopes and left her hanging. She didn’t need to come back to the timeline to tell you guys anything, as she doesn’t owe anyone anything. Is she a government official?”

Adding context, Don Jazzy referenced his November N20 million donation to the Tech Access Project initiated by Ayilola Ayotomiwa, aimed at empowering 10,000 youths with laptops.

“But because of the too much drags, I guess she thought it was best to share the news on the timeline. What is bringing this woman talk now? Is the 20m Laptop brother a woman too?”

The controversy began on December 11, when Itohan tweeted: “I wish that #DONJAZZY would just ask me what I need for Christmas. I promise, I won’t be greedy.”

Don Jazzy responded: “Lol Oya na what do you want? Just cos I like your bio, and I see you engage with my tweets every time. Thanks, I appreciate.”

Itohan listed her requests, including paying off personal debts and launching her “Mercy Foundation” to cover dialysis fees for kidney patients, inspired by the death of her brother from kidney disease.

Reacting, Don Jazzy wrote: “Ahhh, Sister, this your request is giving everlasting expenses on another person’s pocket o. You suppose pity this boy.” 

She replied: “I am sorry, boss, I wished too big, but I’ll spend any amount with receipts and evidence weekly.”

After seeing her demands, social media users accused her of being “greedy,” triggering widespread criticism and urging Don Jazzy to ignore her requests.

However, some defended Itohan. #adetunbiowolabi tweeted, “She didn’t mention anything selfish. How is she greedy in this? She wants to pay some debts, then went ahead to talk about her desire to start a foundation helping people, not for herself, but to make an impact. Except you all, as a result of your negative minds, have read a different meaning to her tweet.”

In response to the backlash, Don Jazzy privately sent her a substantial donation.

Itohan later shared a receipt showing six zeros, with the first few digits blurred, indicating the sum could potentially range from hundreds of thousands to millions of naira, though she did not personally state the exact amount

Still addressing the backlash, Don Jazzy remarked: “Yet they are labelling her entitled. Pot calling kettle black.”

He criticised those who expect assistance but drag others for receiving help, citing a user, #IamBagzy, who tweeted:

“Hmmm, I’ve been begging you to help me start my business, but you refused, but you can send millions to a girl. I don’t know why people in Nigeria always do this, and I really have a lot of respect for you.” Don Jazzy responded: “Come beat me collect am.”

He further addressed perceptions of entitlement in general, responding to another user, #lex_simon_, who suggested he was upset over the Tech Access Project, “Lmao, one thing is certain from this post.. That 20m laptop guy matter dey vex Don Jazzy.”

Clarifying, he said: “No, it’s not. Anybody I gave that money to would face the same problem he is facing. That’s one of the reasons I don’t have an NGO.

“Cos all of a sudden everyone feels entitled to money that cannot go around everybody. There is no way he will satisfy everyone who needs a laptop here.”

In an earlier tweet reflecting on his philanthropy, he added: “Unfortunately, I can’t help everybody.”

Responding to the N20 million donation, the organiser of the Tech Access Project said he has faced intense backlash, describing the experience as emotionally draining and damaging.

“At some point, I considered refunding the ₦20m, but I decided against it because I didn’t want the naysayers to win,” he said, adding that he felt “exhausted and broken.”

He noted that his team added 15 laptops worth ₦3.9 million from their own funds to make a total of 100, demonstrating accountability.

Despite these efforts, he said the attacks continued, leaving him questioning whether the work was worth the personal toll. “Sometimes I read certain tweets and break down in tears,” he said.

Adding that encouragement from Don Jazzy and appreciative youths has kept him going. “Seeing Don Baba finally clear the air about the 10k Laptops Project left me speechless. It really poured cold water on my boiling emotions,” he said.

 

Read More

Police Arrest Social Media Influencer Peller Over Alleged Attempted Suicide In Lagos

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested and detained a 20-year-old social media influencer, Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, over an alleged attempted suicide and reckless driving that resulted in a serious road crash in Lagos.

The arrest followed a viral video that surfaced on Sunday, December 14, 2025, showing the suspect driving dangerously on a public road while live-streaming the act on social media. The incident reportedly led to a severe motor accident, during which the suspect’s life and those of other road users were endangered.

According to the police, Hamzat’s actions constituted a deliberate attempt to take his own life and posed grave danger to innocent members of the public.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, SP Abimbola Adebisi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, the Command confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and undergoing investigation.

The statement noted that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a thorough probe, adding that the outcome of the investigation will be made public upon conclusion.

“The suspect will be charged to a court of competent jurisdiction in accordance with the law,” the police said.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh, also issued a strong warning to social media influencers, content creators, and members of the public against engaging in or promoting reckless, dangerous, or unlawful acts in the name of content creation.

He cautioned that such actions are capable of causing breach of public peace and untimely loss of lives, stressing that the Command will not tolerate any form of lawlessness.

“The full weight of the law will be applied to anyone found culpable,” the statement added.

The police further urged all road users to strictly comply with traffic regulations, reiterating the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives, maintaining public order, and ensuring safety across the state.

 

Read More

91 Lagosians Lost Their Lives Through Road Crashes In 11 Months - FRSC

The Lagos Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps has disclosed that no fewer than 91 people were killed in various road crashes across the state between January and November 2025.

The FRSC Lagos Sector Commander, Kehinde Hamzat, recently disclosed this while responding to a question on road crash statistics at a press briefing held at the Sector Command, Ojodu-Berger, Lagos State.

The briefing, which commemorated the annual Don’t Drink and Drive Campaign, was held in partnership with the Beer Sectoral Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria.

According to Hamzat, the statistics revealed that October recorded the highest number of fatalities with 14 deaths, followed by January with 13 deaths.

The statistics also showed that February recorded the lowest number of fatalities, with five deaths.

Hamzat stressed that the figures represented a slight increase compared to the same period in 2024.

He attributed the road crashes to three factors, which he identified as human, mechanical, and environmental.

The Lagos FRSC Sector Commander noted that while mechanical and environmental factors could be managed, human factors were often the major cause of road crashes.

Speaking on the notorious nature of the Otedola Bridge and Kara Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, he noted that motorists’ inability to manage the engineering challenges at Otedola Bridge and indiscriminate roadside parking at Kara Bridge were responsible for most crashes along the corridor.

Hamzat noted, however, that motorists must take responsibility for their safety even as the government works on solutions.

He said, “There are three factors that cause road traffic crashes, and they are human, mechanical, and environmental. Human beings can take care of the other two factors because someone who has been driving a road over a period of time should know that when they get to certain areas, they should drive with care.

“When you ask a mechanic to repair your brake system, it will surprise you that the mechanic will drive your vehicle from your house to his workshop. That is being careful; that is the human factor taking care of the mechanical factor.

“We have observed that the engineering nature of that area (Otedola Bridge) has challenges, not because the road is not wide enough, but because of human failure to manage mechanical factors.”

Hamzat added that the agency had played its advisory role on the engineering challenges of the Otedola Bridge and had also urged the Lagos State Government to engage its Ogun State counterpart on addressing the indiscriminate roadside parking at the Kara section.

 

Read More

48 Shops Go Up In Flames In Elegushi Market Fire Incident

An early morning fire that rocked the Elegushi Model Market complex in the Lekki area of Lagos State has left no fewer than 48 shops destroyed.

The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, disclosed this in a statement.

According to the PS, the agency received an emergency alert at about 2 am on Sunday and, upon arrival at the scene, discovered that the market complex was engulfed in flames.

He noted that the emergency response team immediately contained the fire to prevent it from causing further damage.

Oke-Osanyintolu stated that preliminary investigations revealed that the fire emanated from a makeshift stall within the market complex before spreading to the main building, adding that no lives were lost in the incident.

He stated, “Preliminary investigations conducted by the Shark Response Team revealed that the fire started from one of the makeshift stalls within the compound of the market and quickly escalated to the main building. The cause of the fire was not known at the time of this report.

“No life was lost, and no injuries were sustained as a result of the incident.

“Collaborative efforts by all stakeholders ensured coordinated firefighting to completely extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to adjoining buildings.”

He, however, stressed that a post-disaster assessment revealed that 48 shops were affected by the fire.

The PS added that traders were further sensitised on fire prevention and management strategies to avert future occurrences.

“Forty-eight shops were affected by the fire. The market union executives were advised to place fire extinguishers in strategic locations to enable them to arrest or control minor fires before they escalate and spread.

“Shop owners were also advised to be more conscious of fire outbreaks and fire prevention measures. Smoke detectors and fire alarms are to be installed within the premises,” Oke-Osanyintolu concluded.

 

Read More

How Lagos Wife Faked Own Kidnap To Extort N2.5 Million From Husband

A 26-year-old woman, Misturah, is presently cooling off in the custody of the Lagos state police command. Misturah was arrested for allegedly staging her own abduction and extorting N2.5m from her husband under the guise of a kidnapping.

Lagos Today Extra! gathered that the incident was reported to the police on November 24 when a lawyer, Hamzat (surname withheld), contacted the police to report that his brother’s wife had been kidnapped by unknown armed men.

A source in the Lagos State Police Command, who spoke with newsmen, said the supposed abductors demanded a ransom of N10m for Misturah’s release.

According to the source, the amount was later reduced to N3m during negotiations, after which a sum of N2.5m was eventually paid.

“Following the report of her supposed kidnapping, the command registered the incident for investigation.

“During ransom negotiations, the kidnappers reduced their demand to N3m. Subsequently, a sum of N2.5m was paid; however, the kidnappers initially refused to release the hostage.

“Upon receipt of the complaint, a team of police officers was deployed to track and rescue the victim.

“Before operatives could locate the suspected criminals’ hideout, the complainant contacted the squad and reported that the victim had been released and reunited with her family,” the source narrated.

The police source further stated that Misturah was subsequently invited to the command headquarters the following day, where she was debriefed and her statement recorded.

In her account, she reportedly claimed she was kidnapped by six armed men who arrived in a silver Toyota Venza and took her to an undisclosed location.

She also alleged that her iPhone 12 Pro Max was seized and that she was released only after the payment of N2.5m.

She further told detectives that the ransom money was first paid into her bank account before it was handed over to the kidnappers, insisting that the entire sum was delivered to them.

The police source, however, noted that further investigation raised suspicions, leading to the arrest of a 30-year-old man, identified simply as Daniel, on December 3, in Ede, Osun State.

The source said, “A SIM card used to register the WhatsApp account through which ransom negotiations were conducted was recovered from Adedamola.

“During interrogation, he stated that Misturah was an online acquaintance of about two years and that she requested the use of his SIM card to register a WhatsApp account.

“He stated that during the registration process, a one-time password was sent to him, which he forwarded to Misturah, enabling her to activate the WhatsApp account.

“He further stated that she informed him that the phone number would be used to resolve some personal issues.

“He claimed that after she concluded her use of the number, she deactivated the WhatsApp account and later informed him.

“However, he later began receiving multiple messages on the same line, which eventually caused WhatsApp to log him out of his own account.

“Upon contacting Misturah, she told him that she had used the account to settle issues between herself and her husband, one Ridwan, who is based in South Africa.”

Confronted with Daniel’s confession after a police invitation, Misturah was said to have admitted to faking her kidnapping to extort money from her husband.

It was further gathered that findings also led to the recovery of the iPhone 12 Pro Max, which she earlier claimed was with the kidnappers.

“The phone was recovered from one Yusuf Sodiq, 34, to whom she allegedly sold it for N380,000. She warned the buyer not to insert any SIM card into the device until a later time,” the source added.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the state police command, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the incident.

“Investigations are ongoing, and appropriate charges will be filed at the conclusion of the probe,” she said.

 

Read More

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu Rewards 177 Public Servants With Cars And N165.5 Million

No Less than 177 outstanding public servants in Lagos State were yesterday rewarded by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. 

Five of the 99 selected senior civil servants won brand-new cars in a raffle draw, while 94 received N1 million each. In the junior category, five outstanding staff received N5 million each, while 73 received N500,000 each.

Sanwo-Olu also announced the promotion of the Director-General of the Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation, Mrs Toyin Anjous-Ademuyiwa, to the position of a Permanent Secretary and announced a donation of N10 million to staff of the Office for putting Lagos on the national and global landscape.

The cars and cash gifts were announced and presented during the 2025 Mr. Governor’s luncheon with outstanding officers of Lagos State Public Service selected across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of the State.

Speaking during the event held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, in Ikeja, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged public servants in the State to remain diligent and consistent in discharging their duties and to show excellence, noting that hard work would not go unnoticed.

Sanwo-Olu, who implored public servants not to relent in their dedication, commitment and consistency in the discharge of their duties, encouraged the awardees to continue to show excellence and keep up their good work always.

The governor said the recognition of outstanding officers was a deliberate effort to reward excellence and encourage consistency in service delivery. He urged them to identify their strengths, continually refine them, and remain committed to high standards, stressing that excellence must be sustained over time.

Sanwo-Olu noted that the achievements recorded across the state were the result of collective effort, adding that public service remains central to effective governance and development.

Speaking earlier, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, noted that the 177 outstanding officers in both junior and senior categories were selected after a rigorous and transparent process out of 312 nominations from different MDAs.

Agoro, who commended Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support, leadership, and commitment to the welfare of public servants, enjoined the staff to exhibit a high sense of responsibility, diligence, and commitment to duty.

He said the luncheon marked the grand finale of the 2025 Public Service Week, which featured medical screenings, fitness walks, donations to children with disabilities, long-service awards, a government lecture, and talent competitions.

 

Read More

8-Month Baby, Woman Perish In Accident Along Ikorodu Road

A tragic road accident on Ikorodu Road has claimed the lives of an eight-month-old baby and an adult female passenger, while ten others sustained injuries.

The incident occurred early today, Sunday, opposite Olabode House, after Anthony and before Obanikoro, when a red long Tata commercial bus travelling from Palmgroove toward Anthony lost mechanical and directional control.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority confirmed this in a statement signed by its Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq.

“Preliminary findings indicate that a red long Tata commercial bus propelled at an excessive and perilous velocity from Palmgroove inward Anthony, suddenly lost mechanical and directional control.

“In a catastrophic sequence of events, the bus veered off its lane, violently breached the median barrier and careened into the opposing carriageway, where it forcefully collided with a moving Volkswagen commercial bus conveying passengers from Anthony toward Palmgroove.

“The sheer violence of the impact resulted in the instantaneous death of an adult female passenger aboard the Volkswagen bus, while an eight-month-old female infant tragically succumbed to injuries sustained in the collision.

“The untimely and heartrending loss of such tender and innocent lives has plunged the entire corridor and indeed the wider community into profound mourning,” the statement read.

In response, LASTMA operatives, with assistance from members of the public, coordinated the rescue of ten victims, including the drivers of both vehicles.

“A total of ten (10) victims, including the drivers of both vehicles, were successfully extricated from the mangled wreckage, all sustaining varying degrees of serious injuries.

“Six (6) trapped passengers were rescued from the Volkswagen commercial bus, while four (4) others were evacuated from the red Tata bus,” the statement added.

The injured were immediately transported to nearby medical facilities by the Lagos State Ambulance Service.

Taofiq explained that security was provided by the Ilupeju Police Division, while the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit recovered the bodies of the deceased.

LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep condolences to the families, particularly the mother of the deceased infant, who survived but sustained serious injuries.

He described the crash as a moment of collective grief and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Bakare-Oki urged motorists, especially commercial drivers, to observe speed limits, maintain vehicle roadworthiness—particularly braking systems—and exercise caution on Lagos roads.

“Recklessness on the road remains a deadly menace with irreversible consequences,” he said, reaffirming LASTMA’s commitment to proactive traffic management, rapid emergency response, and public education on road safety.

 

Read More

Orca Mall, Africa's Biggest Shopping Mall, Springs Up From The Heart Of Eko Atlantic City

Orca Mall recently officially opened its doors to the public. The event was attended by the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu; the Deputy Governor, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat; former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN; and the CEO of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Mrs Aisha Rimi, among other distinguished guests.

A special recognition went to ITB Construction and the Eko Atlantic City development team, whose work and technical expertise made the project possible.

From inspiring speeches to the ceremonial ribbon-cutting and guided tours of the extensive showroom, the opening signalled a new chapter for retail, design, and customer experience in Lagos.

Orca Mall  is undoubtably Africa’s biggest home-and-lifestyle showroom that’s setting a new benchmark for retail design, scale, and ambition.

Standing proudly in the heart of Eko Atlantic City, the monumental ORCA Showroom reflects years of investment, planning, and a belief in what Nigeria’s future can hold.

Spanning four floors and more than 50,000 square metres, with over 100,000 products on display, ORCA is now Africa’s largest home-and-lifestyle showroom under one roof.

At the centre of the project are Ambassador Gilbert Chagoury and Ronald Chagoury (Chagoury Group), Moufid Karameh (Mikano Group), and Jawal Kaawar (Orca Group), whose decades-long vision and long commitment to Nigeria’s growth shaped the development of this space. Kaawar has expanded Orca Deco across more than 22 African countries, and the Lagos showroom marks another major step in that journey.

 

Read More

Real Reasons I Am Quitting International Football - William Troost-Ekong

The weight of expectation and subsequent pressure to deliver is one that's now synonymous with international football.

Fans of all countries rest their dreams on a team of 11, a squad of 23 in total, and a manager tying it all together to achieve national pride.

When that doesn't happen, chaos ensues. Superstars who were once national heroes for their successes across the globe are quickly labelled villains and become the focal point of what can be an inescapable abuse.

Sometimes, the scriptwriters leave the fate of a nation to the finest of margins. A penalty shoot-out, a late goal, a refereeing decision. Or sometimes the issues tell a tale of wider infrastructural oversights.

For William Troost-Ekong, the now former captain of Nigeria after he decided to call time on a decade-long career as a Super Eagle, that "pressure was a privilege."

The centre-back will not be at the Africa Cup of Nations. His international retirement came as a shock to many Nigerians.

Most, who looked forward to righting the wrongs of the 2023 final defeat against Ivory Coast and their most recent failure to reach the World Cup for the second consecutive time, have been left bewildered by the timing. However, it's a decision that Troost-Ekong has battled with for some time.

"I just felt like the right time for me," Troost-Ekong told Sky Sports.

"It feels like a chapter is closing. But I also feel happy, I feel proud. I've had such a great run with the Super Eagles to be part of the team for over 10 years.

"It's been such a big part of my identity, something I've been so proud of. Just to be part of the team is one of the biggest honours that I've had in my life so far.

"For me to grow into becoming a captain of the team is something that I couldn't have even imagined at the start of it.

"It's bittersweet, but it just felt like the right time for me."

Troost-Ekong retires as Nigeria's ninth-most capped player, with 83 appearances to his name.

His time with the national team was a rollercoaster. There were highs interlinked with the lows, along with doubts and disagreements. Troost-Ekong was part of a Nigeria team that earned a bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics before achieving third place at the 2021 AFCON.

In 2023, he led Nigeria to the AFCON final as captain, becoming the competition's highest-scoring defender ever while also being named Player of the Tournament. A career highlight, scoring in the final to open the scoring, became a low, shipping two goals to hosts Ivory Coast, and losing as favourites for the competition.

"It feels surreal," Troost-Ekong says as he describes the feeling of dragging his nation to an AFCON final.

"I think maybe because I already had the first thoughts about stopping at that time. I was probably more emotional.

"I wasn't in the best relationship with the coach that we had at the time, even though we made up afterwards and I went to the tournament.

"So to be there, I was just trying to enjoy it as much as I could because I kind of said to myself, 'this would be my last tournament'.

"It wasn't until we finished the tournament, and I thought, wow, that was something really special to be a part of. And I think I managed to show my best version and lead the team as well as I could."

Troost-Ekong was in tears after the final whistle blew in Abidjan. But as his sorrow turned to pride, anger from fans who felt their team should have won turned to abuse, platformed by a harsh Nigerian media.

Fulham duo Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi felt the full brunt of the abuse as their Premier League status came with expectation that they failed to deliver upon.

An unforgiving media alongside a passionate fanbase is a recipe for disaster when things don't go your way.

"Was the media scrutiny too much? Maybe at times. When I got older, I kind of had to learn how to deal with that.

"And I think the best way is through experiencing it. I think you have to share that. I don't think you've got to take that upon yourself because it's not just me playing in the team.

"But as a team, my role was definitely growing in that and change because you have to try and absorb that and try to keep everyone level-headed.

"It's difficult to do because there are so many moving parts, whether it's the manager, whether it's within the federation, or of course, the fans who want the best for the team and are so passionate, which is also the beauty of Nigerian football.

"It can be a lot sometimes. So, I think you just try to create a circle around the team and you treat that as a family."

Troost-Ekong has stepped away from the "family" in a playing capacity but believes the foundations have been laid to achieve success. However, Nigeria haven't won the tournament since 2013. Every year spent without the trophy since has spelt failure for a nation consistently among the favourites and among the competition's most valuable squads.

Having said that, players such as Iwobi and Bassey have grown more mature.

Victor Osimhen's performances at the height of the European game have sustained, while the likes of Ademola Lookman and Wilfried Ndidi will hope to play a key role this AFCON.

"I feel like there's been a gradual passing of the baton from where I am as one of the leaders and captain of the team," Troost-Ekong said.

"It's time to step away and let the next generation and the boys I've been playing with for the last years give them a chance to write their own story.

"The team are very well placed to achieve something at this AFCON.

"The last AFCON taught us so much. Of course, losing that, you learn a lot. You understand how to play that occasion better when it comes.

"I think the team will be unfazed now until that moment and they'll definitely want to put those wrongs right.

"I'll be there to support them as much as I can because I think if we have a chance to win the AFCON now in Morocco, I would still feel like I've been a part of that generation, the set of players, even though I wouldn't be there at that moment.

"It would be a beautiful way to kind of crown the generation of players that we've had now and also give them the respect that they, over the years, probably deserved. But you need to earn it. There's been a golden set before 2013 that won it."

Culled from Sky Sports

 

Read More

Government Should Penalize Wives Who Provoke Their Husbands - Nollywood Actress, Esther Nwachukwu

Nollywood actress Esther Nwachukwu has called for sanctions against wives who habitually provoke their husbands. Speaking on the various marital crises in the entertainment industry, she said, “Women should not provoke men to anger. In fact, the government should start sanctioning women for their provocative behaviour in marriage.”

According to the actress, women should not only speak up when abused but also when men treat them well.

“Women speaking up when they are abused is fine. But they should also acknowledge when men do their best for them. Men are barely cared for. All fingers point at men when things go wrong, but nobody considers what women do. If things are good, women are applauded; if bad, men are blamed. No one cares for these men.”

She also explained her involvement in Regina Daniels and Ned Nwoko’s marriage controversy.

“Regina Daniels has nothing to lose; she’s young and may end up marrying a white man. But she has publicly disgraced Ned Nwoko and damaged his reputation. I am convinced Ned would lose the next election.”

 

Read More

I Will Never Marry Again - Nollywood Actress, Regina Daniels

Nollywood actress Regina Daniels says she can never marry again, having lost faith in the marriage institution. Daniels said she feels “traumatised” by the idea of marriage following her ongoing marital crisis with her estranged husband, Senator Ned Nwoko.

Regina revealed this in a recently-uploaded video on her Facebook account which she captioned “God is my guyy shaaa, and I’m his special last born”. Her post prompted followers to ask questions about her future.

When asked if she would consider marrying another man, Daniels replied without hesitation: “Nopeee! Traumatized with that institution.”

On whether she misses her husband and children, she said, “I no get strength to add effort pepper person. My waking up every day na tatashe but yes I freakinggggg missssss my kids.”

The couple’s private troubles spilt into the public domain in October when a video surfaced showing Daniels in tears, alleging she was a victim of domestic violence. Nwoko swiftly denied the claims, insisting instead that his wife was battling drug and alcohol addiction.

Daniels later acknowledged her involvement with hard drugs but accused the lawmaker of engineering her dependency as a means of manipulation and control.

The movie star has two male children with Nwoko.

 

Read More