Lagos Appeals To LASU Unions To End Strike

    The Lagos State Government has appealed to the Joint Action Committee of all staff unions at Lagos State University to end their ongoing indefinite strike, assuring that the welfare of both staff and students remains a top priority.

The appeal was made on Monday as academic and administrative activities at the institution continue to suffer disruption after the JAC, comprising ASUU LASU, SSANU LASU, NASU LASU, and NAAT LASU, commenced an indefinite strike on Friday, July 31, 2025, over unresolved welfare and salary grievances.

This was contained in a statement made available by the Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mamud Hassan.

He said the state government acknowledged receiving several formal correspondence from the striking unions on the matter.

He further disclosed that high-level meetings had been held involving the State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, to address the concerns of the unions, adding that government representatives and the unions had previously agreed to shelve any disruptive action to allow meaningful deliberation.

He added that the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, also called for calm, understanding, and cooperation amongst the unions, emphasising the state government’s efforts to find sustainable and amicable solutions, while ‘the door is still open for continuous dialogue.’

The statement partly read, “In light of the ongoing indefinite strike, the government is earnestly appealing to the leadership of JAC comprising ASUU-LASU, SSANU-LASU, NAAT-LASU, and NASU-LASU to reconsider their position and call off the industrial action.

“The suspension of academic and administrative activities not only disrupts the academic calendar but also negatively affects the future of our students, who are the primary reason for the university’s existence.

“The Lagos State Government assures parents, students, academic and non-academic staff, that we are committed to restoring academic activities and industrial peace at Lagos State University.

“It is believed that a swift resolution can be achieved through constructive engagement, not through the disruption of the University’s operations.

“The Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, pleads for the peace, understanding, and cooperation of all stakeholders. He urged the union leaders to consider government efforts in funding the University despite the increasing demands on the government cum the challenges of Lagos as a model megacity.

“With strong collaboration, understanding, and trust, we can work together to find a lasting solution that benefits everyone.”

 

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LASTMA Seals Nightclub Over Persistent Traffic Violations

The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), has sealed Vaniti Club House on Adeola Odeku Street,

Victoria Island, over repeated violations of the state’s traffic regulations.

The enforcement action, led by LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki, was carried out by the agency’s Rescue and Compliance Unit, following what authorities

described as the club’s “habitual and deliberate infringement” of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.

The club was accused of facilitating illegal roadside parking and encroaching upon public highways, actions which have severely disrupted vehicular movement

and endangered public safety.

Bakare-Oki stated, “Despite extensive sensitization efforts—including public enlightenment campaigns, stakeholder engagements, and multiple warnings—the

management of Vaniti Club House has continued to violate traffic laws and undermine the operational integrity of the state’s traffic system.”

He added that the sealing of the club is indefinite and will remain in place until its management fully complies with all existing traffic laws and regulations.

This move comes on the heels of a public warning issued by LASTMA at the weekend, cautioning owners and operators of event centres, nightclubs, and lounges

to stop obstructing traffic or face severe consequences.

Citing the Transport Sector Reform Law, Bakare-Oki emphasized that any obstruction to free movement or activities that jeopardize the safety of road users

are considered serious offences under Lagos law and attract strict penalties.

“This enforcement action is not a one-off. It marks the beginning of a broader and sustained compliance campaign,” he said, noting that the agency is monitoring

other nightlife venues and recreational facilities, especially those located in high-traffic areas like Victoria Island.

The state government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward individuals, organizations, or businesses that compromise public order and road safety.

LASTMA urged Lagos residents to report traffic-obstructing venues via its toll-free hotline: 0800-00-LASMA (080000527862).

Bakare-Oki concluded, “The Lagos State Government is committed to fostering a safe, disciplined, and efficiently regulated traffic environment as part

of its vision for a world-class, livable urban landscape.”

He also reiterated LASTMA’s collaboration with security agencies and regulatory bodies to sustain the enforcement drive across the state, regardless of

social or commercial influence.

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D’Tigress Wins Fifth Consecutive Afrobasket Title, Tinubu Commends Team

Nigeria’s D’Tigress have cemented their dominance in African women’s basketball, clinching their fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title with a commanding 78-64 victory over Mali.

With a hard-fought victory over Mali in the final on Sunday, the Nigerian side became the first country on the continent to win the championship five times in a row.

The victory also extended Nigeria’s astonishing unbeaten run in the competition to 29 straight games—an unbroken streak dating back to 2015.

President Tinubu has commended the skill, resilience, determination, and teamwork that propelled the team to the fifth consecutive title, and the seventh overall.

He praised the team’s determination to bring glory to the country despite losing the first quarter of the match.

“Your superb performance throughout the competition has made Nigeria proud. Like the Super Falcons, you have inspired our young ladies. You embodied the indomitable Nigerian spirit, the power of unity, and the rewards of hard work.

“By winning the AfroBasket trophy for a record fifth consecutive time, you have written your names in history and shown the world what to expect out of Africa,” the President stated.

President Tinubu also lauded Head Coach Rena Wakama and her technical team for their exemplary leadership and the Nigeria Basketball Federation for their steadfast support.

“The Federal Government and Nigerians will never forget the sacrifices and remain grateful for the highly elevating performances.

“The government and the people of Nigeria celebrate you and assure you of our continued support as you prepare for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup next March.

President Tinubu added, “I look forward to receiving the victorious team and the trophy in Abuja, while wishing you all a safe trip.”

 

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76 Die, Dozens Missing As Migrant Boat Capsizes Near Yemen

At least 76 people have been killed and dozens are missing after a boat carrying mostly Ethiopian migrants sank off Yemen, in the latest tragedy on the perilous sea route, officials told AFP on Monday.

Yemeni security officials said 76 bodies had been recovered and 32 people rescued from the shipwreck in the Gulf of Aden. The UN’s migration agency said 157 people were on board.

The accident occurred off Abyan governorate in southern Yemen, a frequent destination for boats smuggling African migrants hoping to reach the wealthy Gulf states.

Some of those rescued have been transferred to Yemen’s Aden, near Abyan, a security official said.

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UN agency the International Organization for Migration earlier gave a toll of at least 68 dead.

The IOM’s country chief of mission, Abdusattor Esoev, told AFP that “the fate of the missing is still unknown.”

Despite the civil war that has ravaged Yemen since 2014, the impoverished country has remained a key transit point for irregular migration, in particular from Ethiopia which itself has been roiled by ethnic conflict.

Each year, thousands brave the so-called “Eastern Route” from Djibouti to Yemen across the Red Sea, in the hope of eventually reaching oil-rich Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The IOM recorded at least 558 deaths on the Red Sea route last year, with 462 from boat accidents.

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Last month, at least eight people died after smugglers forced migrants to disembark from a boat in the Red Sea, according to the UN’s migration agency.

The vessel that sank off Abyan was carrying mostly Ethiopian migrants, according to the province’s security directorate and an IOM source.

Yemeni security forces were conducting operations to recover a “significant” number of bodies, the Abyan directorate said on Sunday.

On their way to the Gulf, migrants cross the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the narrow waterway at the mouth of the Red Sea that is a major route for international trade, as well as for migration and human trafficking.

Once in war-torn Yemen, the Arabian Peninsula’s poorest country, migrants often face other threats to their safety.

The IOM says tens of thousands of migrants have become stranded in Yemen and suffer abuse and exploitation during their journeys.

In April, more than 60 people were killed in a strike blamed on the United States that hit a migrant detention centre in Yemen, according to the Huthi rebels that control much of the country.

The wealthy Gulf monarchies host significant populations of foreign workers from South Asia and Africa.

AFP

 

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MTN Unveils "Next Afrobeat Star" To Discover, Groom Musical Talents

MTN Nigeria has unveiled a new reality television show called, “Next Afrobeats Star”, to groom musical talents by providing a lifetime opportunity to turn their dreams and aspirations into reality.

Speaking at a news conference in Lagos on Saturday night, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, said the show would feature a competition and grooming sessions to discover and elevate the next global icon of Afrobeats.

According to her, the winner of the show will receive a record deal valued at 100,000 dollars, which is N155 million.

She explained that the top four finalists will also be rewarded with deals ranging from 25,000 dollars  to 75,000 dollars, to support the production of their debut projects.

She said: “Tonight, we are not just launching a show, we are launching a dream. A dream that will rise from the streets of Lagos, echo through the valleys of Jos, and reach the furthest corners of Nigeria.

“At MTN, we believe in progress, not just as a brand stance but a purpose. We believe that every Nigerian, regardless of background, location, or education, deserves a chance to be connected, seen, heard, and celebrated.

“That is why we are taking this message to every corner of Nigeria from the bustling cities to the most remote villages so that no youth is left behind, because talent knows no boundaries, and neither should opportunity.

“It is a platform where raw talent meets real opportunity. Where the rhythm of Nigeria meets the reach of the world.”

According to Ikenna-Emeka, the initiative also aligns with the Federal Government’s bold vision to transform Nigeria into Africa’s creative capital.

She said through the Destination 2030 strategy, the government was working to position Nigeria as a leading global hub for creative excellence by the year 2030.

“This vision is about more than economic growth; it’s about cultural pride, global influence, and national identity.

“It is about creating an enabling environment for artistic brilliance, promoting diversity and creativity, and preserving the rich heritage that makes Nigeria unique.”

She called on the youth to embrace the opportunity to make a difference on the global stage.

According to her, the “Next Afrobeats Star” is a bold initiative by MTN Nigeria, in partnership with Ultima Studios and ONErpm.

Also, Temilolu Salako, Senior Manager, Youth Segment at MTN Nigeria, noted that renowned afrobeats producers would be engaged as judges and mentors during the show.

“Today, we’re not just launching a talent search, we are kicking off a movement. The Next Afrobeats Star is more than a campaign. It’s a spotlight.

“It is a microphone, a stage for the next voice that will shake the charts and shape the sound of Nigeria and beyond, and powering this bold journey is a brand that’s all about youth empowerment, creativity, and self-expression, that is MTN Pulse.”

Alexander Uwaifo, known professionally as Andre Vibez, a music producer who is one of the judges for the show, said: “I am excited to showcase my experience in helping to discover the crop of stars in the Afrobeats business.”

Another judge for the show, Femi Ayeni, Chief Executive Officer of Ultima Studios said, “Nigerians should expect that this will be different from other talent shows.”

 

 

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Why We Are Spending N712 Billion On Murtala Mohammed Airport Lagos

   The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has explained that the Federal Government’s decision to spend N712 billion on the renovation of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos is driven by the urgent need to replace decaying infrastructure, expand capacity, and bring the nation’s busiest airport in line with modern global standards.

The Minister gave this explanation in a statement issued on Sunday, following the Federal Executive Council’s recent approval of the transformation project.

After the Federal Executive Council meeting on Monday, the FG approved airport projects worth N919.10bn in total.

He described the package as “massive infrastructural upgrades” across key gateways, especially the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. 

He explained that MMIA, International Terminal 1 will be stripped to the carcass and fully rebuilt, with all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems replaced—an award to CCECC that also covers Terminal 2 works (apron expansion, access roads, bridges and associated infrastructure).

However, justifying the huge amounts earmarked for these projects, the minister explained, “To further enunciate our plans for the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, let me further clarify the approval we secured from the Federal Executive Council Meeting last week.

“There are two international terminals in Lagos. Terminal One is that old building directly facing the long stretch of road leading to the airport, built and commissioned in 1979 by the Obasanjo-led military regime. It has two wings known as Wing D and Wing E. Terminal Two is the new building on the right-hand side as you drive into the airport, started by President Jonathan’s government with a Chinese loan, completed during President Buhari’s government (with the loan), and made operational during President Tinubu’s first one month in office,” the statement partly read.

Keyamo noted that Terminal One has fallen into a state of disrepair, becoming unfit for modern aviation demands.

He noted, “Due to years of neglect and because the traffic over time quadrupled beyond its capacity, the building and facilities at Terminal One became totally decrepit. We have been engaged in some patch jobs over the years just to make it a bit presentable.

“Now, shorn of all the rhetoric, what we simply want to do is to totally strip down that building, including the entire roof (leaving only the carcass), then re-design/reconfigure it and build a brand-new airport for the nation to meet modern, international standards that can also cater for the increased traffic. Both Wings D and E would be affected.”

On Terminal Two, he revealed plans for expansion and correction of long-standing design flaws that inconvenience travellers.

“As for the new Terminal (Two), we got approval to expand the building and the apron (where aircraft park for boarding and disembarkation) in order to accommodate more aircraft, including wide-body aircraft. That is not all; we are constructing two new independent ring roads in and out of the airport (one for departure and one for arrival) and a bridge that will take travellers directly to the upper floor of Terminal Two departure lounge, instead of lifting our luggage the escalators when we are departing. It is a design error we intend to correct”, Keyamo explained.

He also highlighted the integration of advanced technology into the redesigned airport, aimed at bringing it up to global standards.

The minister stressed that the initiative will be funded entirely through domestic resources.

“We have also introduced smart solutions to the new designs in order to deliver a smart airport to Nigerians that can compete with any airport in the world. In all, Nigerians will be proud of what we are going to deliver. And take note, this will not be done by a loan from anywhere, but by the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, which is one of the gains made from the removal of subsidies.”

To ensure public accountability, Keyamo said stakeholders will be invited to monitor the progress of the project when it begins.

“As the work progresses, we will be inviting the press, civil society groups, members of the National Assembly and interested Nigerians on regular tours of the facility to monitor the extent and quality of work. It is part of our national heritage and we should all rightly be interested in the final outcome”, he noted.

He also urged the public to make global comparisons in airport project costs for better perspective.

“I will also encourage our compatriots to simply google the cost of most modern airports built around the world in the last few years (including those in Africa like Angola, etc.) and you will agree with me that the Bureau for Public Procurement that scrutinised and fixed the final cost of this project did a fantastic job for the nation”, the minister noted.

In conclusion, Keyamo pointed to underused facilities in other cities and invited Nigerians to watch a video presentation of the proposed revamp.

“And as a final word, it is important to tell Nigerians that we also have brand-new terminals in Kano, Abuja and Port Harcourt. However, presently, they are all underutilised due to the traffic that is less than thirty per cent of their capacities.

“For further explanation and transparency, we have produced a video (which I attach hereunder) that graphically explains the proposed works upon which we are embarking. I hope you find it useful,” the statement concluded.

 

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Lagos Taskforce Clears Agege Under-Bridge, Impounds 55 Vehicles

In a bold effort to decongest traffic and restore sanity to the Agege underbridge area, the Lagos State Taskforce, has cleared illegally parked vehicles and impounded 55 commercial transport units during a major enforcement operation.

Led by the chairman of the Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, the operation targeted long-standing traffic disruptions caused by commercial vehicles — including Danfo, Korope, and tricycles (Keke Marwa) — which had turned the Agege roundabout along Ogba Road into an illegal parking hub.

The enforcement, which also extended to Ogba, Iju, and Ishaga roads, followed surveillance by the agency’s Monitoring Unit and reports submitted through its “See Something, Say Something” platform. Dozens of vehicles obstructing the free flow of traffic were removed, bringing immediate relief to motorists and residents in the area.

Speaking during the operation, CSP Akerele condemned the habitual recklessness of commercial drivers, describing traffic gridlock as a man-made problem.

“Traffic logjam is not natural, not created by God, but a product of human recklessness. We will not tolerate or surrender to any form of indiscipline on our roads,” he said.

The Taskforce boss emphasized that the clean-up marks a significant shift in Lagos State’s traffic enforcement strategy, aimed at reducing travel time, improving safety, and upholding road laws. 

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to sustaining operations that promote traffic order and discipline across the state.

“We urge all motorists and commuters to comply with traffic regulations. Our roads must remain safe and motorable for everyone at all times,” Akerele added.

According to the agency, a total of 55 vehicles — including Danfo, Korope, and Keke Marwa — were seized during the operation. The drivers of the impounded vehicles are set to be charged in court for various traffic offenses.

According to the director, press & public affairs of taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Lagos State Taskforce has vowed to continue its crackdown on illegal parking and other road offenses in its ongoing bid to keep Lagos traffic flowing.

 

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