Lagos Moves Against Quackery In Health Sector, Intensifies Crackdown On Unlicensed Hospitals

    The Lagos State Government has intensified its crackdown on medical quackery, urging residents to support efforts to identify and report unlicensed healthcare facilities operating across the state.

The Executive Secretary of the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, Victoria Egunjobi, made the appeal during a one-day awareness and sensitisation campaign held in Badagry to educate residents on the dangers of patronising unqualified healthcare providers.

Represented by the agency’s Director of Monitoring and Inspection, Olayinka Daniel, Egunjobi said protecting public health requires collaboration among government agencies, community leaders and residents.

She urged Lagosians to seek treatment only from healthcare facilities displaying the official HEFAMAA accreditation logo, noting that the emblem confirms that a facility has met regulatory standards and has been duly licensed by the state government.

According to her, the sensitisation campaign was organised to deepen public understanding of the agency’s statutory responsibilities, including the monitoring, inspection, accreditation and licensing of healthcare facilities across Lagos State.

“The essence of this programme is to enlighten residents of Badagry on the responsibilities of HEFAMAA, which include monitoring, inspection, accreditation and licensing of health facilities.

 This is aimed at ensuring that only qualified healthcare providers, in line with the provisions of Section 63 of the Lagos State Health Sector Reform Law, are allowed to operate in the state,” she said.

Egunjobi described medical quackery as a major threat to public health and safety, warning that preventable deaths caused by unqualified medical practitioners must not be allowed to continue.

“One life lost due to quackery is one too many,” she said.

She called on traditional rulers, market leaders, artisans, religious organisations, youth groups, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders to join the agency’s efforts to eliminate illegal medical practice in the state.

According to her, the campaign against quackery cannot be won by the government alone and requires active public participation.

“Ensure that you patronise only health facilities displaying the HEFAMAA logo.

“If you notice any facility operating without the logo, do not hesitate to report it. See something, say something, so that together we can win the battle against quackery,” she added.

As part of the campaign, HEFAMAA officials visited several locations in Badagry, including the Primary Health Centre, Ijanikin; Lagos Health District V Office; Badagry Local Government Secretariat, the palace of the traditional ruler of Badagry, Badagry General Hospital; Badagry Market, Badagry Roundabout Motor Park and the Lagos State University campus in Ojo.

At various locations, residents were educated on how to identify accredited healthcare facilities, and informational materials detailing HEFAMAA’s responsibilities and the risks associated with unlicensed providers were distributed.

The campaign forms part of the Lagos State Government’s broader efforts to strengthen healthcare regulation, protect residents from unsafe medical practices and improve access to quality healthcare services across the state.

  

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2026 junior WAEC Examinations Begin June 29 In Lagos - Ministry

The Lagos State Government has announced the schedule for the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination.

According to a statement shared on its official page, the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, through the Lagos State Examinations Board, said the examination will be held from “Monday, June 29, 2026, and conclude on Monday, July 6, 2026.”

The Registrar of the Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Adebayo Orunsolu, said the examination remains an important milestone in the academic journey of students in the state.

“The examination remains a significant academic milestone in the educational journey of students across the State,” he said.

He urged parents, guardians and school administrators to take note of the timetable and ensure strict compliance with all guidelines issued by the Board.

Orunsolu explained that the BECE serves as the transition examination for students moving from Junior Secondary School to Senior Secondary School in both public and approved private schools.

“The BECE serves as the official transition examination for students in public and approved private schools advancing from Junior Secondary School to Senior Secondary School,” he said.

He also stressed the need for adequate preparation, noting that schools are expected to ensure that all eligible candidates are fully ready and meet examination requirements.

The Registrar assured stakeholders that all administrative and logistical arrangements have been concluded to guarantee a smooth, transparent and credible examination process across the state.

Reaffirming the government’s position on examination integrity, Orunsolu restated the Lagos State Government’s zero-tolerance policy on malpractice.

He warned that any form of examination malpractice, disruption or misconduct would attract disciplinary sanctions in line with existing regulations.

  

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Fire Guts Polaris Bank Building On Lagos Island

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has extinguished a fire outbreak that occurred on the third floor of the Polaris Bank Building on Broad Street, Lagos Island.

The incident, which happened at about 11:33 a.m. on Thursday, involved a stationary saloon car parked on the third floor of the 17-storey building, which also serves as a parking facility.

In a statement issued by the Controller General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, firefighters from the Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu fire stations were deployed to the scene immediately after the alert.

“The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has successfully extinguished a fire outbreak that occurred on the 3rd floor of the Polaris Bank Building, located at 61/65 Broad Street, Lagos Island.

“The only damage recorded was to the affected vehicle and its immediate surroundings. No casualties or injuries were reported,” she said.

Authorities have not disclosed the cause of the fire as of the time of filing this report.

  

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Seadogs, Firefighters Take Fire Prevention Awareness To Residents Of Amuwo-Odofin

The Federal Fire Service (FFS)

Fire safety professionals and the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) have called on Nigerians to be more conscious of the causes of fire outbreaks, stressing that prevention remains the most effective strategy against fire disasters.

The appeal was made during a fire safety sensitisation campaign organised by NAS in partnership with the Lagos State Command of the Federal Fire Service at Mile 2 Estate in Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The organisers noted that while some fire incidents occur accidentally, many are caused by negligence, ignorance and failure to observe basic safety precautions.

Delivering a lecture on the causes and prevention of fire outbreaks in homes, the Operations Officer of Festac Fire Station, Mr. Oghene Michael, explained that fires are classified according to the nature of combustible materials involved and therefore require different methods of control and extinguishing.
He identified cooking gas, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), furniture, clothing, curtains and rugs among common combustible and flammable materials found in homes, warning that such materials can ignite easily under certain conditions.

According to him, substances in gaseous form are particularly dangerous because of their low ignition thresholds and ability to spread rapidly.
“Anything with a high flashpoint has a lower risk of ignition when exposed to heat. It is not the material itself that burns, but the vapour it produces. That is why substances in a gaseous state are generally more dangerous than those in liquid or solid forms,” he said.

Michael advised residents to identify and manage potential ignition sources, including matchsticks, lighters, faulty electrical connections, defective appliances and excessive heat.
As part of preventive measures, he urged parents to keep matches and lighters away from children, regularly inspect cooking gas cylinders and hoses, and ensure that kitchens and electrical installations are properly maintained.

He also encouraged good housekeeping practices, including the disposal of unused furniture, electrical appliances and other combustible materials that may obstruct escape routes during emergencies.
In the event of a fire outbreak, he advised occupants to evacuate immediately and contact the nearest fire service station without delay.

He cautioned against using water to extinguish fires involving petroleum products such as petrol, diesel, kerosene and cooking oil, noting that water could worsen such fires by spreading the burning substance.
Similarly, he warned against using water on electrical fires without first disconnecting the power source to avoid electrocution.

Michael explained that Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) fire extinguishers are best suited for flammable liquid and electrical fires, particularly in kitchens and locations containing sensitive electronic equipment, as they leave no residue after use.
He added that Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) extinguishers are effective against fires involving solid materials, flammable liquids and gases, making them suitable for homes, garages and other multi-risk environments.

The fire safety session also featured a practical demonstration by personnel of the Federal Fire Service, including Festac Station Commander, Oyibode Idowu; Operations Officer, Oghene Michael; and Drill Officer, Adebayo Sodiku, who simulated fire outbreak and suppression procedures for residents.
Earlier, the Head of NAS Festac Chapter (Saratoga Deck), Mr. Emeka Achonu, said the sensitisation programme formed part of the association’s quarterly community outreach activities for 2026.

He explained that NAS chapters worldwide regularly organise free advocacy programmes, health interventions and public enlightenment campaigns aimed at improving the well-being of communities and promoting human dignity.
As part of the initiative, the association donated firefighting equipment to the Mile 2 Estate community to strengthen local emergency response capacity.

  

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Residents Of Surulere Petition Reps Member Over Road Project

Residents of Anjorin Community Development Association in Surulere, Lagos State, have petitioned their federal lawmaker, Lanre Okunola, over what they described as poor execution and prolonged delay in the construction of the Anjorin Street road project.

The petition, signed by CDA Chairman Kehinde Okelade, accused contractors of substandard work, lack of professional supervision, and abandonment of sections of the project since work commenced in 2024.

Okelade said residents had endured months of disruption after the initial clearing of drainage channels began in August 2024, but no meaningful construction followed for an extended period.

“Sometime in August 2024, clearing of drainage commenced on Anjorin as preparation for the construction of the road. However, it was not until June 2025 that we noticed the breaking of culverts in front of buildings,” he said.

Democracy Day Protesters Converge at Ikeja Under Bridge

He alleged that when construction eventually resumed, the materials and methods used fell below acceptable standards.

“We observed that the iron rods used for the construction were so tiny, below the required specifications, and the work was being executed by mallams without any engineer on site for supervision,” Okelade said.

He also raised concerns about supervision and interference in the project, alleging that individuals without technical qualifications were directing workers on-site.

“We noticed one of the notable CDA members from Ramoni Ward, by name Ayo, was the one supervising the construction… the said Ayo is not an engineer and does not have any qualification known to us for handling road construction,” he added.

According to the residents, construction activities have also disrupted access to adjoining streets without consultation.

“Ayo instructed the mallams to dig up the Akanji road junction by Anjorin, thereby preventing residents of Akanji from accessing their street. The action was taken without formally informing the CDA or the residents,” the petition stated.

The CDA compared the ongoing project with neighbouring roads, alleging uneven standards of execution.

“The construction of Onadeko was attested by residents of our CDA as the best road construction in Surulere. Sadly, Anjorin Street… is being poorly constructed and will likely fail just as we are currently experiencing with Cole Street,” Okelade said.

He urged the lawmaker to intervene directly by inspecting the project and ensuring accountability in the use of public funds.

“As leaders within the community, we have been receiving so many complaints from residents regarding the state of Cole Street and also Anjorin… which has been ongoing for about two years,” he said.

  

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Femi Otedola Goes To School

Not many people knew that billionaire businessman Femi Otedola recently enrolled at the London Business School . The business bigwig has now completed an executive leadership programme, Leading Businesses for the Future, in the school.

Otedola announced the milestone via his official social media platforms, describing the experience as a powerful reminder that humility remains central to lifelong learning.

According to him, “no knowledge is wasted,” adding that he remains committed to becoming the best leader possible.

The completion of the executive programme marks another milestone for Otedola, who is widely known for building successful businesses across multiple sectors. He has previously stated that he achieved his early entrepreneurial success without obtaining a formal university degree.

The 63-year-old businessman, whom Forbes estimates to be worth more than $1.5 billion, explained in his 2025 memoir, Making It Big, that he did not complete a university degree.

In the book, he disclosed that he struggled academically and eventually left school during his Advanced Levels (Lower Sixth) to focus on business opportunities.

Otedola began his education at the University of Lagos Staff School in 1968 and completed his studies there in 1974 after repeating a class. 

Due to poor performance, his parents switched him to Methodist Boys' High School and then Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo State.

Femi Otedola had, in separate interviews, revealed that academia and he "were not compatible" and that he dropped out of high school because he struggled academically and kept failing exams. Instead of attending a university, he realized he was not as gifted in formal education as his siblings and chose to dive straight into business.

He eventually moved into the family business. He asked his father to let him handle practical work and was put in charge of the family's printing company. By rebranding it and working for a commission, he made enough money to set up his own businesses.

"I did not complete secondary school. My father wanted me to go to the university like my siblings, but I was not that smart in school,” he once stated.

He went on: “I kept failing exams and repeating classes, and at some point, I felt school was not for me. I realised I was not as smart as many of my siblings. I decided to drop out and asked my father to give me a business to handle.

“He put me in charge of his printing company. From there, I told him to make me the sales representative so I could earn 15% of every customer I brought in. My father’s printing company was very big, one of the best in Nigeria, with so many loyal clients. I decided to brand and market it so well that I attracted more customers and earned my 15% commission. With that money, I was able to set up my own company and create my own path to becoming a billionaire.”

Despite not earning a university degree, Otedola went on to build a business empire spanning the oil and gas, finance, and power sectors. He currently serves as Chancellor of Augustine University.

however, the burning desire to complete his education was always there and in spite of his age, social status and other factors that could have pulled him back, the business mogul went ahead to make that desire a reality. 

  

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Lagos To Reconstruct And Upgrade Major Roads In Ikeja GRA

The Lagos State Government has commenced plans to reconstruct and upgrade major road networks in Ikeja GRA, including Ladoke Akintola Road, Oladipo Bateye, Tayo Ayeni, Adetunji Adeoba and Sowemimo roads, as part of efforts to improve infrastructure and enhance connectivity within the highbrow neighbourhood.

The government disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Office of Infrastructure under the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to brief residents on the scope of the projects and obtain their support ahead of construction.

Speaking at the meeting, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Olufemi Daramola, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Infrastructure, Tokunbo Oyenuga, said the projects formed part of the state’s broader urban regeneration and road rehabilitation programme.

According to him, the engagement was necessary to ensure that residents understood both the benefits and temporary inconveniences associated with the projects.

“To ensure a seamless process, the Office of Infrastructure under the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure held a stakeholders meeting to allow residents to understand the peculiarity of pains and gains before the end of the projects,” he said.

Oyenuga noted that the roads would be reconstructed using concrete pavement technology and fitted with solar-powered streetlights to improve durability, safety and environmental sustainability.

He called on residents to cooperate with the government and contractors to facilitate the timely completion of the projects.

The permanent secretary also assured residents that the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure would continue to engage stakeholders throughout the execution of the projects to ensure that concerns were addressed promptly.

He further urged property owners to adhere to approved building setbacks and avoid encroaching on public road alignments.

Representing residents at the meeting, the chairman of the Ikeja GRA Residents Association, Muiz Banire, who spoke through Ade Atobatele, welcomed the government’s intervention and described the planned road upgrades as critical to development.

He commended the state government for engaging residents before commencing the projects and expressed confidence that the project would improve mobility and infrastructure within the community.

Banire, however, appealed to the government to ensure the prompt completion of the projects to reduce the disruption construction activities could cause to residents and businesses.

“At the same time, we urge the government to ensure prompt completion of the road projects to minimise the hardship that residents and businesses may experience during construction.

“We assure the government of the maximum cooperation of residents towards the success of the projects,” he said.

The contractors handling the projects also pledged to deliver the works within schedule, assuring stakeholders that the roads would provide long-term benefits for residents and support future development within the community.

Stakeholders at the meeting further called on the state government to address issues raised during the engagement to ensure the successful execution of the projects.

  

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RCCG To Train Over 100,000 Youths On Tech-Related Skills

The Redeemed Christian Church of God has announced plans to train more than 100,000 young Nigerians in technology-related skills as part of activities lined up for its Mega Music Festival 2.0 scheduled for Friday at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

The church said the initiative, tagged the RCCG Young Adult and Youth Tech Fellowship, would be officially launched during the event, which is expected to draw thousands of worshippers from across Nigeria and beyond.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Youth Affairs, Sola Olukoya, said the fellowship would provide a four-month practical training programme aimed at equipping young people with skills required for the digital economy.

According to him, the programme, being organised in partnership with Reach4Christ, will focus on areas including data analysis, product development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software development and digital innovation.

“This transformational initiative is designed to empower over 100,000 young adults and youths through an intensive four-month practical, hands-on technology training programme,” he said.

Olukoya noted that the church’s goal was to prepare young Nigerians for global opportunities while contributing to national development.

“Our mission is to equip young people spiritually, mentally, and professionally — giving them the tools required to access global workforce opportunities, create solutions, build enterprises, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.

The cleric disclosed that the Mega Music Festival, themed “A New Season,” would combine worship, prayers, thanksgiving and prophetic declarations for Nigeria.

He said the event was inspired by the church’s belief that collective worship and prayer could usher in national transformation.

“We believe that when a people honour God with genuine praise, the land responds with increase, restoration, peace, and divine blessings,” Olukoya said.

He added that the church would use the gathering to pray for economic recovery, security, education, innovation and national progress.

“We believe the new season Nigeria desires must include a generation of young people who are empowered, innovative, productive, and guided by godly values,” he said.

Olukoya said the event would feature gospel ministers including Nathaniel Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Yinka Alaseyori and Bidemi Olaoba.

He added that senior ministers, including J. F. Odesola and J. T. Kalejaiye, would lead prayer sessions, while the General Overseer of RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, would pronounce blessings and prophetic declarations over the nation.

Olukoya said more than 5,000 volunteers had been mobilised for the event, covering areas such as security, logistics, medical support, sanitation and crowd management.

He also disclosed that free buses would operate from designated locations across Lagos and Ogun states to convey worshippers to and from the venue.

Describing the festival as more than a musical event, he said, “It is an altar of praise. It is a sound of hope. It is a movement of transformation. It is a declaration that Nigeria is entering a new season.”

  

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Arab Bank And Assurance Bank Retirees Stage Protest In Lagos, Demand N32,000 Pension Benefits

Aggrieved ex-employees of the defunct Arab Bank and Assurance Bank took to the streets of Lagos on Wednesday in a protest, accusing regulatory authorities of systemic neglect and pushing them into acute poverty.

The protest was held at the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate office at the old Secretariat within the premises of Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island.

The senior citizens, representing roughly 1,020 affected staff nationwide, are demanding immediate intervention from the Federal Government over their exclusion from national welfare packages.

Despite a 20-year dispute since the banks’ liquidation, many of the retirees said they are currently receiving less than N10,000 monthly, a figure far below the nationally approved N32,000 minimum pension baseline.

The peaceful demonstration drew a crowd of elderly protesters wielding placards highlighting their daily battle for survival. Some inscriptions on the placards read, “Today, today, PTAD must answer us,” “20yrs on: No gratuities and retirement benefits. CBN, NDIC, why?”, and “After 32 years of service, where is our 32k pension palliatives?”

The core of their grievance lies in a perceived “discriminatory dichotomy” enforced by PTAD, which absorbed the workers in 2019 but has allegedly failed to match their benefits with those of regular Federal Government retirees.

The voice of the protest was carried by several representatives who stepped forward to detail the human cost of the regulatory standoff.

A protest coordinator and ex-Assurance Bank staff member, Mr Idowu Oshikoya, said, “We are ex-staff of the defunct Arab Bank and Assurance Bank. We worked, and we are qualified to be paid pension. Up till now, many of us are here to be paid; even those who are paid are not sufficiently paid.”

Oshikoya explained that despite the President’s directive ensuring a minimum pension baseline for federal workers, their group has been entirely left out.

“The N32,000 palliative that was granted for all minimum wage… we are excluded. I can tell you for free that many of us here, our pension is under N10,000. I don’t know how we can survive with that,” he added.

Compounding the problem is the lack of clarity regarding the multi-billion-naira physical and intangible assets left behind when the banks were liquidated two decades ago.

Another ex-Assurance Bank worker, Mr Bola Olaniyan, said, “It was the NDIC that liquidated us, and this has been for about 20 years. For 20 years, some of our members have not been paid a dime. We wrote to the NDIC, we wrote to the CBN… they never deemed it fit to reply to us.”

Olaniyan lamented the rapid deterioration of the bank’s former properties, including nearly new vehicle fleets, which could have been liquidated to offset the mounting debt owed to the retirees.

“PTAD will look us in the face—I’ve got 35 years in the bank—and give us N12,000 as pension at the end of the month. Some could not even afford transport to get to this place. Enough of this nonsense… It is either they give us, or we die here,” he said.

The protesters noted that out of the roughly 1,020 qualified staff scattered across Nigeria, many are too frail or impoverished to travel, leaving the Lagos chapter to spearhead the demonstration. While the workers acknowledged they were classified as “unsecured creditors” during the initial liquidation process, they argued that 20 years is an unacceptable period to hide behind bureaucratic red tape.

  

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Lagos First Lady Together With Mrs Hamzat And Others Walk Against Drug Abuse Among Youths

Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and  wife of the deputy governor, Oluremi Hamzat on Thursday charged youths to be ambassadors of the fight against drug abuse and Illicit trafficking.

She spoke at a Walk to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the theme ‘The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,’ held at Caleb University, Imota, Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu was joined in the Walk by staff and students of the university, Commissioner for Tertiary Education,Tolani-Sule Akibu, Chairman, House Committee on Youth and Social Development, Abiodun Orekoya, Permanent Secretaries, officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, and others.

She said the theme of this year’s fight against drug abuse reflects both long-standing and emerging drug abuse patterns that require collaborative and evidence-based action.

The First Lady described drug abuse as a threat to youths and society as it damages their mental and physical health, academic performance, productivity, relationships, and wellbeing.

“Addiction cuts across age, gender, and social status, yet victims are often stigmatized instead of supported. We must embrace compassion, encourage rehabilitation, and create opportunities for recovery,” she noted.

She expressed the commitment of her office to fighting drug abuse in partnership with NDLEA, ministries of education, health, justice, youth and social development, NGOs, community leaders, market associations, and local government areas.

She further noted that her office has carried out initiatives and sensitization programmes one of which is the Lagos Boy Child Initiative. She added that Caleb University was the third university after Lagos State University, LASU, and University of Lagos, UNILAG; to benefit from her office ‘s advocacy campaign against drug abuse.

“To students, your choices today shape your tomorrow. Drug abuse may bring temporary excitement but destroys dreams, health, education, and career. I urge you to become campaign ambassadors, discourage substance abuse and support those struggling,” she said.

In her remarks, the wife of the deputy governor, Oluremi Hamzat warned the students against drug abuse, warning that it could destroy their dreams and deprive them of opportunities to succeed in life.
She encouraged them to ’embrace positive values’

“Let us break the cycle of drug abuse and build a safer society for all,” she said.

The Vice Chancellor, Caleb University, Prof. Olalekan Asikhia lamented that despite decades of awareness campaigns and policy interventions, the menace of substance abuse continues to evolve.

He said the university is resolved to foster a drug-free environment, promote mental wellness, and equip its students with the resilience and knowledge to reject the temptations of illicit substances.

Ogunluyi Titilope, the Deputy Commander, Drug Demand Reduction, NDLEA, Lagos Command, urged the students to join the government in creating awareness, report drug dealers and peddlers and serve as positive role models

Executive Director, Compassionate Care Recovery, Dr Dokun Adedeji in his lecture noted that between 14 to 15million Nigerians use drugs with age brackets ranging from 25 to 39years old and Lagos recording the highest rate with 33%.

He attributed difficulties in recovering from drug abuse to stigma and discrimination, lack of emotional and psychological support among others.

He advocated living a meaningful life, family and community support as part of measures that could help a drug addict to recover.

  

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Xenophobia: 270 Nigerians Evacuated From South Africa To Land In Lagos On Thursday

A group of at least 270 Nigerians, who are expected to make up the first batch of returnees from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks, is scheduled to arrive in Lagos on Thursday morning as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to assist affected citizens.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

According to the ministry, the evacuees will be flown back to Nigeria aboard an Air Peace aircraft departing Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night.

The flight is expected to land at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at approximately 5 a.m. on Thursday.

Ebienfa said the Federal Government had taken responsibility for the evacuation exercise, including funding and arrangements for the reception of the returnees upon arrival.

“Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families,” the statement added.

The repatriation exercise was initially scheduled to commence on Monday but was postponed until Wednesday due to what the ministry described as “unforeseen logistical considerations.”

Providing further clarification on the delay, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, explained that additional time was required to conclude documentation and screening processes being carried out in collaboration with South African authorities.

She noted that more than 1,000 Nigerians in South Africa had participated in the screening exercise, adding that the number of individuals seeking repatriation continued to rise.

The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria also revealed that discussions with South African authorities resulted in concessions for some Nigerians facing immigration-related issues.

According to the mission, it had “negotiated waivers with host authorities” to ensure that individuals with “immigration-related offences” could depart through the repatriation programme instead of being detained.

The evacuation operation is being coordinated by the National Emergency Management Agency alongside other relevant government agencies.

The repatriation follows growing concerns over attacks on foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting Nigerian authorities to facilitate the voluntary return of citizens who wish to leave the country.

FG has repeatedly assured Nigerians residing in South Africa of its commitment to their safety and welfare while continuing diplomatic engagements aimed at addressing the situation

  

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15 Arrested In Jibowu For Reselling Used Plastic To Food Vendors

Operatives of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps have arrested over 15 suspected environmental offenders around the Jibowu railway corridor

in Lagos State.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a post shared on his verified X handle.

The suspects were apprehended for allegedly collecting used disposable plastics and plates from refuse bins and reselling them to food vendors in the area.

The statement said, “Earlier today, operatives of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI) apprehended over 15 suspected environmental offenders

around the Jibowu railway corridor for allegedly collecting and reselling used disposable plastics and plates recovered from refuse bins to food vendors.”

The enforcement exercise was part of ongoing efforts by the state government to curb environmental violations and ensure public health safety.

144 people were arrested across Lagos State last week Wednesday for allegedly engaging in street begging.

  

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How Commercial Driver Lost His Life In Multiple Crashes At Cele Oshodi

A commercial bus driver has lost his life in a fatal multiple-vehicle collision at Cele inward Oshodi, Lagos, prompting an emergency response from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).

The crash, which occurred on the busy corridor on Monday, involved a commercial mini-bus popularly known as a “Korokpe” and a Toyota Tundra pickup truck with registration number EPE 554 YC.

According to preliminary findings by security personnel at the scene, the driver of the commercial bus sustained severe injuries from the impact of the collision and died instantly.

LASTMA officials, who were on routine traffic monitoring duties in the area, quickly responded to the incident by securing the accident scene, managing traffic and coordinating emergency operations to prevent further disruption along the route.

Working alongside officers of the Nigeria Police Force from the Cele-Ijesha Division, LASTMA personnel recovered the body of the deceased driver and facilitated its release to family members living in the area.

The agency also evacuated the wreckage and all vehicles involved in the crash to restore normal traffic flow and ensure the safety of other road users. The vehicles have been handed over to the police for a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident and establish liability where necessary.

Despite the heavy traffic disruption caused by the incident, normal vehicular movement was restored within a short time following the intervention of traffic officials.

Reacting to the tragedy, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and urged motorists, especially commercial drivers, to strictly adhere to traffic regulations and drive responsibly to prevent avoidable road crashes.

LASTMA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining order on Lagos roads through prompt emergency response and effective traffic management.

  

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Extreme Heat: Lagos Begins 500-Tree Planting Campaign

The Lagos State Government has unveiled a new environmental initiative aimed at combating climate change and rising urban temperatures, committing to planting 500 trees across the state while joining a global campaign to address extreme heat in cities.

The announcement was made last Friday at the 2026 World Environment Day celebration in Alausa, where officials warned that rapid urbanisation and climate change were increasing heat-related risks for residents.

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Olalekan Rotimi-Akodu, called for greater adoption of nature-based solutions, including tree planting, ecosystem restoration and urban greening, to strengthen climate resilience.

He said forests, wetlands and green spaces remain among the most effective tools for mitigating climate impacts and improving the quality of life in rapidly growing cities.

“Rapid urbanisation, population growth, traffic congestion, greenhouse gas emissions, and the replacement of natural landscapes with concrete and asphalt surfaces are all contributing to rising temperatures and the Urban Heat Island effect in cities,” Akodu said.

He noted that Lagos, as Africa’s most populous city, faces growing threats from extreme heat, flooding and sea-level rise, warning that higher temperatures could affect public health, productivity, air quality and energy demand.

As part of its response, the state formally aligned with the United Nations Environment Programme’s global “50 Cities at 50°C” campaign, which encourages cities to develop and share solutions to rising urban temperatures.

According to Akodu, Lagos will participate under the theme, “50 Cities at 50°C: Lagos Rising Against the Urban Heat Island.”

The state also launched a new environmental stewardship programme, tagged “Me and My Tree,” under which 500 trees will be planted across Lagos.

Residents participating in the initiative will receive free tree seedlings and be encouraged to nurture them to maturity.

To encourage participation, the government announced a cash prize of N2.5m for the owner of the best-performing tree after one year.

Akodu said the initiative builds on Lagos’ long-running urban greening programme, which has resulted in the planting of more than seven million trees since 2009 through partnerships involving schools, communities, businesses and government agencies.

He added that the state was also pursuing climate resilience through investments in mass transit infrastructure, including rail, bus and water transportation systems designed to reduce emissions and traffic congestion.

“Lagos is not waiting for the future; Lagos is preparing for it, adapting to it, and rising above it,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Mahamood Adegbite, said World Environment Day serves as a reminder of the need to tackle climate change and protect future generations.

He noted that rising temperatures were already placing pressure on public health systems and increasing vulnerability among children, the elderly and other at-risk groups.

“Our megacity with a population exceeding 20 million people is increasingly experiencing the effects of rising urban temperatures,” Adegbite said.

The event brought together government officials, environmental experts, development partners, civil society groups, students and private-sector stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving environmental sustainability and climate resilience across the state.

 

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World Food Safety Day: Lagos Pushes For More Safety Standards

Lagos State has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening food safety standards across the state, as it joined the global observance of the 2026 World Food Safety Day with a renewed call for stricter compliance by food businesses and greater vigilance by consumers.

The Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola, made the call in a statement on Sunday to commemorate the annual event observed worldwide on June 7.

This year’s theme, “From Burdens to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere,” highlights the importance of preventing foodborne diseases and strengthening food safety systems across the food supply chain.

Mojola described food safety as a critical public health, economic and consumer protection issue, noting that ensuring the safety of food consumed by residents remains a priority for the Lagos State Government.

“Food safety is not optional; it is a necessity. Every meal consumed by Lagosians should meet the highest standards of safety and hygiene,” he said.

As one of Africa’s largest commercial centres, Lagos relies on a vast food distribution network involving manufacturers, processors, distributors, restaurants, hospitality operators and food vendors.

Mojola said maintaining safety standards across the chain requires collective responsibility from all stakeholders.

“Together, we can build a safer and healthier Lagos,” he added.

According to the commission, efforts to strengthen food safety have included routine inspections, safety audits and risk assessments of restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets, shopping malls, hospitality establishments and other public facilities.

The agency said it also monitors compliance with safety regulations, issues safety compliance certifications and enforces corrective measures where violations are detected.

Mojola noted that the commission had intensified training and sensitisation programmes for food service operators and other stakeholders, focusing on food handling practices, hygiene standards, storage requirements, hazard control measures and consumer protection.

He said the commission recently organised and supported capacity-building workshops for stakeholders in the food, hospitality and events sectors as part of efforts to promote science-based food safety practices and regulatory compliance.

The director-general stressed that the agency would continue to work with industry operators and relevant stakeholders to strengthen food safety systems and improve public awareness.

He urged businesses, institutions and households to make food safety a priority and support initiatives aimed at reducing foodborne risks.

“Safe food today for a healthier Lagos tomorrow,” Mojola said.

  

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Lagos Attorney-General Rejects Bid To Halt Inquest Into Death Of Chimamanda’s Son

The Attorney-General of Lagos State, Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN), alongside the state’s Chief Coroner and the presiding Coroner for the Lagos Coroner’s District, have challenged a suit seeking to halt the ongoing inquest into the death of master Nkanu Adichie-Esege, son of celebrated author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
 The respondents urged the court to dismiss the application in its entirety, describing it as an attempt to circumvent established legal procedures.

 In a preliminary objection dated June 5, 2026, filed in response to a judicial review application instituted by Eurapharma Care Services Nigeria Limited, operators of a hospital in Victoria Island where the child reportedly died on January 7, 2026.
 Eurapharma had earlier secured an interim order from the Lagos State High Court sitting in Osborne, Ikoyi, presided over by Justice A.O. Opesanwo, temporarily staying proceedings in the coroner’s inquest pending the determination of its substantive application.

 In the suit, the hospital is seeking orders of certiorari and prohibition to quash decisions of the Coroner’s Court and restrain further proceedings in the inquest.
 However, in their objection, the respondents comprising the Coroner, Chief Coroner and Attorney-General, argued that the suit is incompetent, premature and constitutes an abuse of court process.

 In a joint written address, they contended that the applicant failed to establish any legal basis for invoking the supervisory jurisdiction of the High Court through judicial review.
 They maintained that under Nigerian law, the remedy of certiorari is only available where a lower tribunal or authority has acted without jurisdiction or exceeded its statutory powers.

 Citing provisions of the Coroners System Law of Lagos State, the respondents argued that the Coroner possesses exclusive authority to investigate suspicious deaths within the relevant jurisdiction, and that the decision to proceed with the inquest falls squarely within those powers.
 They further submitted that Section 21 of the law empowers a coroner to conduct an inquest even in situations where the body of the deceased is unavailable or has been destroyed.

 On that basis, they rejected the hospital’s argument that the alleged cremation of the deceased’s remains deprived the Coroner of jurisdiction.
 The respondents also argued that issues surrounding the alleged cremation and the absence of an autopsy report had not been formally presented before the Coroner’s Court, making the judicial review application speculative.

 According to them, the hospital is effectively inviting the High Court to intervene in matters on which the Coroner has not yet made any determination.
 “The applicant seeks to invite this Honourable Court into a realm of speculation by asking it to intervene in issues yet to be considered by the Coroner,” the respondents submitted.

 They also dismissed claims that the Coroner’s directive requiring the hospital to call witnesses first amounted to a breach of fair hearing.
 Relying on judicial authorities, including Gyang v Commissioner of Police and Yusuf v State, they argued that fair hearing is satisfied where parties are given adequate opportunity to present their case, and that no such denial had been demonstrated.

 Consequently, the respondents urged the court to dismiss the application in its entirety, describing it as an attempt to circumvent established legal procedures governing investigations into suspicious deaths.
 They further maintained that the suit was filed prematurely, as the Coroner’s Court had yet to conclude its proceedings or make substantive findings.

 Justice Opesanwo subsequently adjourned the matter until September 28, 2026, for the hearing of all preliminary objections.

  

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