Kofi Annan Goes Home

Former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Thursday laid to rest in a state funeral attended by African leaders and international statesmen who hailed his record as an advocate for humanity and world peace.

Annan, a Ghanaian national and Noble laureate, died in a Swiss hospital last month at the age of 80.

His body was flown to Accra on Monday for burial in his homeland, where he is seen as a national hero.

Thousands of mourners all over the world filled the auditorium for Thursday’s official

Current UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was among the dignitaries in attendance, alongside former Ghanaian presidents, the leaders of Ivory Coast, Liberia, Namibia and Niger, and the Crown Prince of Norway.

In an address, Guterres hailed Annan, who served as the seventh UN Secretary-General between 1997 and 2006, as an exceptional global leader with a deep faith in the role of the UN as a force for good.

“As we face the headwinds of our troubled and turbulent times, let us always be inspired by the legacy of Kofi Annan,” Guterres said.

“Our world needs it now more than ever,” he said.

The ceremony was projected onto big screens outside the auditorium for the crowds of mourners that could not fit inside the venue.

Many commuters in the capital wore black as a sign of respect.

On Wednesday, Annan’s family and Ghanaian dignitaries were among hundreds to file past his casket amid traditional rites by local chiefs and clan leaders.

Annan, a Ghanaian of Ashanti lineage, was granted a royal title by the Ashanti king in 2002.

The elders said the rites, including presenting him with clothing and water, were necessary to clear the path for a peaceful “travel” for their royal.

Some mourners, like New York-based community mayor Delois Blakely, had flown long distances to pay their respects.

Blakely, who served as an ambassador of goodwill to Africa at the UN, told Reuters: “I had known and worked with Kofi for close to 10 years.

He spent his life trying hard to fix our broken society.”

As UN boss he was linked to peace efforts to reunite the divided island of Cyprus, submitting a reunification blueprint which was rejected in a referendum by Greek Cypriots in 2004.

He staunchly opposed the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 and later served as the first UN envoy at the start of Syria’s war, but quit after world powers failed to fulfill their commitments, saying: “I lost my troops on the way to Damascus”.

African Freestyle Football Championship: Judges, Freestylers Arrive Lagos

Daniel Wood World

The Judges and Freestylers for the first ever African Freestyle Football Championship have arrived in Centre of Excellency, Lagos for competition that will start this coming Thursday, September 13th

Judges that have arrived in Lagos for the epoch competition are Tobias Brandal Busaet from Norway, Gautier Fayolle from France and  Szymon Maciej Skalski. Also the Co-founder of World Freestyle Football Association (WFFA) Daniel Wood World, the umpire body, in addition to other members of the WFFA including Lukas Skoda, the Director of Operations.

The championship will also host international freestyle professionals; Guinness world record holder, Iya Traore and Female freestyle legend, Raquel Benetti from Brazil. Both came in to Lagos Tuesday evening

Nigerian freestylers competing in the tournament are also expected to arrive Lagos today from their bases where they have been preparing to win top prizes including a saloon car, courtesy of GAC Motors and $50,000.

Chairman, Feet ‘n’ Tricks International, Valentine Ozigbo, on Tuesday said all arrangements for the competition have been concluded.

“We have everything covered because we have been on the planning for a long time. Our target is to make participants enjoy the tournament while fans should also appreciate freestyle more. “The entertainment aspect will also be excellent while we also expect our ambassadors to add colour to the event,” Ozigbo said.

Former professional English footballer, John Fashanu; former Head of Lagos State Football Association, Waidi Akanni; and former Super Eagles Coach, Samson Siasia, Superstar actresses, Kate Henshaw and Tonto Dikeh were recently named as brand ambassadors for this year’s Championship.

The qualifying rounds and Nigerian championship takes place on September 13th -14th, 2018 at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos while the best 16 male and eight female freestyle athletes in Africa will emerge to battle it out at the grand finale on September 15, 2018.

This event is endorsed by World Freestyle Football Association and sponsored by Heritage Bank, Sprite, GAC Motors, MTN, Startimes, FIRS, Eko Disco, Goal.com among others

2019: Ambode Officially Declares For Second Term,

....Thanks Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Lagosian and Pledges to Continue with good work

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday officially declared his intention to seek re-election in 2019 on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC), saying he remains undaunted and resolutely committed to achieve more for the State.

The Governor while addressing lagocian and party faithful who defied the heavy downpour to witness the declaration ceremony in Alausa, Ambode recalled how the journey began four years ago when he called on Lagosians to join him in a journey of selfless service to build a secure and prosperous State driven by a vibrant economy and supported by quality service, equity and justice, saying it was gratifying that the people believed in him and gave their support.

According to the Governor, “In the last three and a half years, I have fulfilled my promises to you to make Lagos work for all. With your support, we have made Lagos a better place and changed the face of our State. I did not do it alone; we did it together, because you believed.

“Our State has remained steadily prosperous because of your positive outlook. I urge you to always stay positive in your personal and communal lives and continue to aspire to great things,” he said.

While thanking all Lagosians for believing in his administration and for the support so far, Governor Ambode, who had earlier picked up his expression of interest and nomination form at the National Secretariat of the party in Abuja, specifically appreciated members of APC and political leaders in the State, especially the party’s National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for giving him the platform to contribute to the further growth and development of the State.

The Governor said though a lot had been achieved, he was nonetheless not daunted or tired to achieve a lot more for the State, adding that such was the reason for humbly seeking the support of the people to achieve more for the State.

“In these three and a half years as your Governor, I have seen visible proof that we can achieve unbelievable things when we all come together with no more than our belief in our dreams.

“We achieved because you believed. But there is still a lot more to be done. But I am not daunted. I am not tired. And I am sure you feel the same way because we all envision a better Lagos, a Lagos of our dreams.

“So, I humbly call you again, to give me your support as I seek to continue with your mandate to steer the affairs of our State. I ask you to believe again and together, let’s achieve more,” Governor Ambode said.

 Also speaking, Senator representing Lagos East senatorial district at the upper legislative chamber, Gbenga Ashafa said Governor Ambode had already been endorsed for a second term by Tinubu on account of his sterling performance in office.

According to him, “We are so proud to have Governor Akinwunmi Ambode as our Governor.

“As the Senator representing Lagos East senatorial district which produced him even though he is for the whole of Lagos State and Nigeria, we are saying we are very happy to endorse him (Governor Ambode) for a second term on the instruction of our leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Ashafa said.

Among scores of APC leaders and members present at the declaration include wife of the Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; Deputy Governor, Dr. Mrs Idiat Adebule; Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello; Senator Musiliu Obanikoro; Senator Gbenga Ashafa, Senator Ganiyu Solomon; members of the House of Assembly; members of the State Executive Council, all the 57 Local Government Chairmen, among others.

Glitz and Glam from 2018 African movie awards ceremony

The biggest Annual Award in Africa, Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards the 6th edition was held the prestigious  Eko Hotel and Suites on Victoria Island, Lagos.

The elaborate event witness high and mighty in the entertainment industry in Africa, likes Olu Jacob and wife Joke Sylvia, Bob Manuel, Omotola Jalade Ekende,  Odunlade Adekola, Femi Adebayo and many other big wings in the industry.

Odunlade Adekola

Check the full winners list below;

Best Sound Editor

Tatu - Kolade Morakinyo and Pius Fatoke WINNER

Idahaso Trails - Stanlee Ohikhuare

Alter Ego - Zezom Gnawni

Ojukokoro - Dayo Thompson

Hakkunde - James Coon Falcon

Best Picture Editor

Idemuza - Aloaye Omoake

18 Hours - Mark Maina WINNER

Alter Ego - Moses Inwang/Tunde Bakare

Hakkune - Asurf Oluseyi

Hidden - Jibril Mailafia

Best Lighting Designer Movie/TV Series

Tatu - Akpe Ododoru, Tunde Akinniyi WINNER

Kada River - Godwin Gata

Hidden - Agbo Kelly

Lotanna - McBaror

Children of Mud - Sunday Olalekan

Best Cinematography Movies/TV series

Tatu - Akpe Ododoru

Idemuza - Dickson Godwin

T-Junction - Lester Millado

The Torture - Rwamusigazi Kyakunzire

Okafor's Law - Yinka Edward WINNER

Alter Ego - Bishop Blunt/Adeoye Adeniyi

Bovie

Best Costume/Designer Movie or TV Series

Tatu - Yolanda Okereke

Isoken - Jade Osiberu

Potato Potahto - Christie Brown

Hakkunde - Joan Gbefwi

The Bridge - Ngozi Obasi and James Bessinone WINNER

Best Short Film/Online Video

The Housewife - Jay Franklin Jituboh

Tolu - Nadine Ibrahim

Penance - Micheal Ama Psalmist' Akinrogunde WINNER

Lodgers - Ken Ogunlola

Tanwa, The Child We Wanted - Adenike Adebayo

Best Documentary

The Flesh Business - Dennis Wanjohi WINNER

Nightfall in Lagos - James Amuta

God's Wives - Bolanle Olukanni

Omidan, Styles Defunct by Ayaworanho3d - Aderemi Davies

Calabar Carnival: What the People Think - Oghenefego Ofili

Best Make Up Artist Movie/TV Series

Tatu - Thelma Ozy Smith, Hakeem Effect Onilogbo WINNER

Ojukokoro - Sandra Oyiana

What Lies Within - Cynthia Ububa

Disguise - Hakeem Effect

Lotanna - Nnenna Emekalam

Best Art Director

Isoken - Jade Osiberu

Tatu - Don Omope, Yolanda Okereke, Segun Arinze, Tolu Awobiyi

Children of Mud - Imoh Umoren

Lotanna - Tunji Afolayan WINNER

Idahaso Trails - Stanlee Ohikhuare

Hidden - Jibril Mailafia

Best Soundtrack Movies/TV Series

M0 - Tom Koroluk

Banana Island Ghost - Enyi Omeruah and Funbi Ogunbanwo

Bella - Andrew Ahuura

Tatu - Evelle WINNER

Idahosa Trails - Oriri Osayamore

18 Hours - Jacktone Okore

Best Indigenous Language Movie or TV Series - Swahili

Super Modo - Sarika Hemi Lhakani  WINNER

Best Indigenous Language Movie or TV Series - Hausa

Mansoor - Ali Nuhu WINNER

Umar Sanda - Kamal S Alkali

Dadin Kowa Sabon Salo - Arewa24

Uwar Bari - Hamisu Lamido Iyantama

Rashinsani - Tiana Johnson

Best Indigenous Language Movies or TV Series - Yoruba

Alakiti - Abiodun Jimoh, Jumoke Odetola

Adaba - Adebayo Salami

Etiko Onigedu - Femi Adebayo WINNER

Egun Iran Kinni - Oyindamola Awotidebe

Ogun Sengese - Ibironke Ojo

Desmond Elliot

Best Indigenous Language Movies or TV Series - Igbo

Bound - Lilian Afegbai WINNER

Ofuobi - Victor Oyke

Uwa Na Eme Nyughari - Tiana Johnson

Oge Nkem - Tiana Oboyi Johnson

Ego Malaysia - Iyooh James Chidozie

Best TV/Drama/Comedy series

Gina and Friends - Paul Igwe

Professor Johnbull - Tchidi Chikere

Papa Ajasco Reloaded - Wale Adenuga

This Is It - Dolapo Adeleke WINNER

Relatives - Tunde Adegbola

Best Movie East Africa

18 Hours - Phoebe Ruguru WINNER

Devil's Chest - Hassan Mageye

The Forbidden - Kizito Samuel Saviour

Rain - Mathew & Eleanor Nabwiso

Bella - Math Bish

Best Movie West Africa

Potato Potahto - Shirley Frimpong-Manso

Alter Ego - Moses Inwang - Esther Eyibo

Isoken - Jade Osiberu WINNER

Tatu - Don Omope, Yolanda Okreke, Segun Arinze, Tolu Awobiyi

Children of Mud - Imoh Umoren

Lotanna - Ifan Micheal

Best Movie Southern Africa

Descent - Awal Abdulfatai

The Road to Sunrise - Shemu Joyah WINNER

Salute! - Phillipe Talavera

Jomako Black Democracy - Abraham Kabwe

Nyasaland - Joyce Mhango Chavula

Trail Blazer Award

Bisola Aiyeola WINNER

Industry Merit Award

Tunde Kelani WINNER

Funmilola Aofiyebi

Best Writer Movie/TV Series

Idemuza - Alaoye Omoake

Soul Tie - Kehinde Joseph

Idahosa Trails - Stanlee Ohikhuare

18 Hours - Njue Kevin

The Torture - Mulindwa Richard

Alter Ego - Patrick Nnamani/Koye O/Moses Inwang WINNER

Hakkunde - Tomi Adesina

Best Supporting Actress

Toyin Abraham - Tatu

Dorcas Shola Fapson - Banana Island Ghost

Funlola Afofiyebi-Riami  - Tatu

Ebele Okaro - Blackrose

Lydia Forson - Isoken WINNER

Emem Inwang - Alter Ego

Best Supporting Actor

Saidi Balogun - Banana Island Ghost

Tomiwa Edun - Banana Island Ghost

Falz - New Money WINNER

Kunle Idowu - Idahosa Trails

Gabriel Afolayan - Okafor's Law

Wale Ojo - Betrayal

Best Actress in a comedy and TV series

Rita Dominic - Big Fat Lie

Adesua Etomi - 10 days in Sun city

Queen Nwokoye - Excess Luggage

Bimbo Ademoye - Backup Wife

Dakore Akande - Isoken

Nyce Wanueri - Auntie Boss WINNER

Femi Adebayo

Best Actor in a comedy

Kalu Ikeagwu- Dr Meekam

IK Ogbonna - Excess Luggage

Blossom Chukwujekwu - The Big Fat Lie

Odunlade Adekola - A Million Baby WINNER

OC Ukeje - Potato Potahto

Jimmy Olukoya - Guy Man

Dare

Best Actress in a Drama/TV Series

Agaba Joan - The Torture

Keira Hewatch - The Witness Box

Miriam Kayode - Children of Mud

Cinderella Sanyu - Bella

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde - Alter Ego WINNER

Lilian Echelon - Black Rose

Best Actor in a Drama Series

Wale Ojo - Alter Ego

Kalu Ikeagwu - Benevolence

Rushabiro Raymond - The Torture

Adjetey Anang  - Keteke WINNER

Adjetey Anang - Sidechic Gang

Chris Attoh - Esohe

Best Director

Moses Inwang - Alter Ego

Aloaye Omoake - Idemuza

Asurf Oluseyi - Hakkunde

Don Omope - Tatu

Jade Osiberu - Isoken WINNER

Mulindwa Richard - The Torture

Shirley Frimpong-Manso - Potato Potahto

Best Overall Movie

Potato Potahto - Shirley Frimpong-Manso

Alter Ego - Moses Inwang

18 Hours - Phoebe Ruguru WINNER

Devil's Chest - Hassan Mageye

Descent - Awal Abdulfatai

The Road to Sunrise - Shemu Joyah

Bob Manuel

Dakore

Zizi Cardo

Saheed Balogun

Iyabo Ojo

Stay Away from Cultism And Drug Abuse – Mrs. Ambode Tells Students

Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode (middle), with Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun (left) and Dean, Students Affairs, Dr. Femi Obayori (right) during the 2nd LASU Distinguished Lecture Series, titled “Life Skills Education for Employment & Entrepreneurship Learning in the 21st Century”, at the University Auditorium, Ojo, Lagos.

Lagos State first lady Mrs. Bolanle Ambode appealed to students to abstain from cultism, drug abuse and other career-ruining ventures, stressing that no excuse could justify indulgence in social vices.

Mrs. Ambode, made the appeal in her keynote address at the second Distinguished Lecture of the Lagos State University (LASU) in Ojo, identified social vices as the bane of proper youth development in the country, urging them to resist the temptation to engage in social vices as they will only ruin their future.

According to her, “No matter the peer pressure, emotional challenge or psychological issues you may be facing, I urge you to say no to drugs, cultism and other vices. One moment of indiscretion is enough to ruin a life. Your lives will not be ruined”.

She urged them to make best use of the knowledge gained today, for their self-development tomorrow.

Mrs. Ambode, an alumna of LASU, rated students of the University very high, describing them as some of the best, capable of holding their own anywhere in the world.

Mrs. Ambode filled with nostalgia, recalled her student days when “I walked the same road as you do, eat at the same joints as you eat, attended lectures in some of those classes that you use today; I am a proud alumna of this great institution”.

She reflected that the founding fathers of the school had a vision of academic distinction for all students that would pass through it, hence the robust academic agenda and phenomenal rise of the institution, when compared to its peers around the country.

Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode (middle), being presented with an appreciation award plague by Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun (right) during the 2nd LASU Distinguished Lecture Series, titled “Life Skills Education for Employment & Entrepreneurship Learning in the 21st Century”, at the University Auditorium, Ojo, Lagos

She said because of the quality of education in that institution, many products of the school had gained global recognition and doing very well in coveted professions around the world.

Encouraging the students she said, “I can see seated before me this morning future presidents, governors, captains of industry, great researchers and accomplished technocrats.”

“The Lagos State Government in conjunction with our University has given you the platform to challenge yourselves to face the future, by offering you practical classes through the ‘Ready Set Work’ initiative, and series of lectures and programmes like we are having today,” she said.

She commended the university authorities for the establishment of a Career Development Centre, for continuous improvement of LASU graduates, for professional efficiency and effectiveness.

In his welcome address, Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun reeled out several scholastic and professional achievements recorded by the institution, through outstandingly brilliant male and female students, who have continued to make waves locally, continentally and globally.

He noted with pride, that the United Nations had just chosen a cohort of millennium fellows from the University, to support its Sustainable Development Goals.

LASG celebrates eid Kabir with Lagos communities

L-R: Senior Special Assistant, to the Governor on Community Affairs, Alhaji Tajudeen Quadri; Commissioner, Ministry of Local Government and community Affairs, Hon. Muslim Folami; Special Adviser, Communities and Communications, Hon. Akeem Sulaimon;Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Fola Padonu; Director, Community Department of the ministry, Alhaja Serifah Ewumi Dosumu during the get- together for the members of the CDA and CAC across the state with Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode to celebrate 2018 Eid-el-Kabir in Lagos

It was celebration galore as Lagos State Government celebrates Eid-el-Kabir with Lagos Communities through the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs at the Police Colledge, Ikeja Lagos. 

His Excellency, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode was represented by the special Adviser on Communities and Communications, Hon. Akeem Sulaimon who delivered the keynote address, “this annual celebration signifies the triumph of faith and the assurance that Almighty Allah will always open a way for those who have absolute trust in his grace. It is a day to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s faith in Allah”.

The Governor use the occasion to reassure  all residents that his administration remain committed to the welfare and well-being of all citizens irrespective of their location within the state without prejudice to ethnic, religious, political and socio-economic background.

Among those that grace the occasion were, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government & Community Affairs Mr. Fola Padonu, Commissioner for Local Government & Community Affairs Hon. Musilim Folami, Alhaji Tajudeen Quadri Chairman Lagos State Community Advisory Council, Director Public Affairs Lagos state Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, Mrs Bisi Olufunwa, Director, Community Department of the ministry, Alhaja Serifah Ewumi Dosumu and host of others.

Queen Ambose

Friesland Campina Emerge Winners at Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2018

…Owners of Remita, SystemSpecs preach work-life balance, bonding among corporates 

L-R: Managing Director, SystemSpecs Ltd, owners of Remita, : John Obaro; Captain, Friesland Campina, Chigozie Nduka; Tournament Ambassador, Peter Rufai and Executive Director, SystemSpecs Ltd, Deremi Atanda at the 2018 Remita Corporate Champions Cup finale where Friesland Campina emerged champions.

Friesland Campina, the producers of Peak Milk have emerged winners of the Remita Corporate Champions Cup 2018 after an impressive bout with FCMB, at YabaTech Sports Pavilion on Sunday, 26th of August 2018. A lone goal scored by Daniel Okoronkwo in the second half of the game placed the highly coveted RC3 Koenig Trophy—Trophy for Kings—in the hands of Friesland Campina, forcing FCMB to settle for second place.

The 2018 Remita Cup started with eight teams drawn from winners and runners-up in Banking, FMCG, Telecoms, and Insurance Games. While 9Moblie, Credit Direct, Unilever and IHS Towers went home in the quarterfinals, Leadway Assurance secured third place, defeating last year’s runner-up, First Bank, two goals to nil.

The Managing Director of SystemSpecs, Mr John Obaro, who did the ceremonial kick-off for the final match between FCMB and Friesland Campina said the programme is getting more interesting each year. “This is our fourth year, and clearly, it is at a much higher level than we’ve ever had it. Everybody is excited and energised. It has been an opportunity to get families together within our organisation, SystemSpecs, and also our customer organisations. We are preaching work-life balance, we believe that people will be more productive when they have a balanced work-life, which is part of our culture at SystemSpecs.”

Deremi Atanda, the Executive Director of SystemSpecs, added that “This has been the best edition so far in terms of participation. We are quite happy to be part of making this happen in corporate Nigeria.”

Before the main event kicked off, SystemSpecs once again demonstrated its commitment to social investment by commissioning newly renovated toilet facilities at the YabaTech Sports Pavilion. Commenting on this, Obaro said, SystemSpecs values good education and sound health, and supports a number of projects within those two areas. “Coming to the YabaTech Sports Pavilion for the Remita Cup, we noticed that the quality of the toilet facility is not supportive of good health, even for the students, and that was how we thought of cleaning up the place and re-equipping the facility. People have been very excited about it,” he said.

 The Remita Cup tournament ambassador, Peter Rufai, fondly called Dodo Mayana bragged to the cheering crowd that age has not affected his goal-keeping skills and proved it by saving some goals during a celebrity penalty shoot-out featuring some captains of industries. “Remita deserves all the accolades for their laudable effort on ensuring that Corporate bodies engage in sports.

“Most of the staff that played here could have as well, chosen football as their career but they decided to focus on academics and another career. Remita has given these same people the opportunity to showcase that burning desire,” Rufai said.

The audience could not get enough of DMW artiste, Mayorkun. The ‘Mama’ and ‘Bobo’ crooner, had them chorusing his popular hit tracks and was excited to walk through the midst of thrilled fans during his superb performance.

During the first novelty football match on Sunday, the Sponsors’ football team, Remita Eagles defeated the organisers, Media Vision, by two goals to nil. In the second novelty match between Fintech Giants and Corporate Nigerian Hall of Famers (HOF), HOF led by a single goal.

Remita’s raffle draw and exciting half-time games saw some of the fans smiling home with a lot of goody bags. The event also featured an athletic performance by cheerleaders, who wowed the audience with their spins and stunts.

Comrade Adewale Visit Leaders of APC in Oriade LCDA, Rolled out four major point of Development, Tourism, Hospitality, Food and Fishing sectors

Comrade Adewale Speaking at the event

Comrade Ayodele Adewale immediate past Local Government Chairman of Amuwo Odofin local government and an aspirant for the House of Representatives (Amuwo and Oriade) Amuwo Odofin Federal constituency was received by the leaders of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Oriade LCDA at their party secretariat at Old Ojo road, Agboju Amuwo by the Local Government Party Chairman, Hon. Hassan Sabitiu and other party chieftains.

Comrade Adewale visited the (LCDA) ahead of the APC primaries for consultation and lobby as their candidate and solicited for their support at the upcoming Party primaries as their candidate.

He gave an overview of his background, his performance as Local Government Chairman of Amowu Odofin, how he had worked assiduously to upgrade social infrastructure and other amenities thereby transforming Amuwo Odofin Local Government into a thriving economic hub for business activities, a peaceful and secure environment for business and its residents and also putting Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency on the global map through his foreign engagements especially on climate change advocacy and international relationships with foreign missions which had led the US to support the riverine communities with support from the US marines in carrying out medical health mission yearly while he was in office as executive chairman.

He was very specific in how he would enrich the lives of the Oriade LCDA communities if elected to the House of Representatives. He pointed out that the Oriade LCDA competitive advantage was its natural coastal habitat which could be unlocked to create sustainable economic growth and jobs so that the people are better able to respond to the changing economic needs and opportunities of their area. Key areas of focus are tourism, hospitality, food and fishing sectors. Unlocking these sectors will help to create employment, improve physical infrastructure, business support, training and development of the youth’s peculiar potentials. 

Adewale assured the members that he had the clout and connections to bring in the investments needed to unlock these activities. He would ensure that laws were created for a sustainable tourism strategy and regularly engage with the community’s and stakeholders via town hall meetings to get their collective views on various projects. He advised the leaders and EXCO members to think of long term benefits that this projects will have for all.

He also stated that he would help to develop an environmental physical planning master plan for the development of the riverine areas in conjunction with the Lagos State government ministry of physical planning.

‘As a lawmaker, I will propose laws that will better the infrastructure especially the dilapidated ones while creating new ones. We have done it in Amuwo Odofin LGA during my stint as the Executive Chairman, and I can influence it again. We positioned Amuwo Odofin in the international map and had relations with the United Nations headquarters in New York. All these influenced the goodwill we enjoy today’.

It takes the deep to call unto the deep, Comrade Ayodele finally noted.

The executive members and leaders of Oriade LCDA starting from its chairman noted that comrade Adewale is gifted with talents that must not to die but utilized to the advantage of the community while advising him to keep on with his campaign and by the special grace of GOD that it will payoff.  

Eid-El-Kabir Celebration: Okoya’s Hosts Less- Privilege

L-R: Alhaji Tajudeen Okoya, Alhaji Ibrahim Adigun-Oso, Dr. Tairu Basorun, Lanre Okoya and Tokunbo Okoya at the Eid-El-Kabir celebration prayer at Oluwanishola Estate Praying Ground, Ajah, Lagos. PHOTO: RAPH IMAGES.

The foremost Nigeria Industrialist and Chairman Eleganza groups, Alhaji Rasak Akani Okoya gives to the less privileges in society during this year Eid-El-Kabir celebration “Festival-of-Sacrifice” for him is a must to give to the less privilege not only during the celebration but always. Though Alhaji Okoja and Chief Shade Okoya were not in the country  but his first wife Alhaja Kuburat and the Children were on the ground and make sure everything went very well and nothing was lacked.

Among those that attended the Eid-El-Kabir prayer at Oluwanishola Estate Praying Ground, Ajah were:  Alhaji Tajudeen Okoya, Alhaji Ibrahim Adigun-Oso, Dr. Tairu Basorun, Lanre Okoya, Tokunbo Okoya, Alhaja Kuburat Okoya, Wosilat Okoya and host of other family members.

One of the beneficiaries Ibrahim Usman who spoke to our correspondence was so happy with the goodies he got say” I am so happy for food, Almighty Allah will continue to bless Alhaji he always celebrate with us every year, Today when I came and I did not see him around I thought I will not get anything but now I am happy now, I came with my friends also.

L-R: Alhaji Tajudeen Okoya, Alhaji Ibrahim Adigun-Oso, Dr. Tairu Basorun, Lanre Okoya and Tokunbo Okoya at the Eid-El-Kabir celebration prayer at Oluwanishola Estate Praying Ground, Ajah, Lagos. PHOTO: RAPH IMAGES.

Alhaja Kuburat Okoya

Alhaji Tajude Okoya Appreciating the drummers

SARAKI: Tinubu is after 2023 Presidential race

Says.. Tinubu is after 2023 Presidential race

+Why Tinubu is after me..

 

The senate President Senator Bukola Saraki as reply national leader of All Progressive Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu that all Tinubu’s moves was for 2023 Presidential Election. “He (Tinubu) expressed a strong opinion that he would rather ‘support a Buhari on the hospital stretcher’ to get a second term because in 2023 it will be the Turn of South west to produce President.

Read the details of his response:

The Tinubu Rhetoric:

 My Response -by Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki-

 I have always restrained from joining issues in the media with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and this is based on my respect for him. However, I will not allow him to create a wrong, false and mischievous impression about the reasons for my decision to exit the All Progressives Congress (APC) and present his prejudice as facts for public consumption. I have been consistent in my complaints to all leaders of the APC, including Tinubu, that a situation where the National Assembly is not constructively engaged or carried along in key policy decisions, particularly those that will eventually require legislative approval, is not in the best interest of the nation.

No genuine leader of the legislature will be comfortable that the Presidency will simply write a terse letter to the National Assembly on key issues which the federal legislature is expected to later deliberate upon and give its approval.

The Buhari administration consistently treats the legislature with contempt and acts as if the lawmaking body should be an appendage of the Executive. To me, this is unacceptable.

In the same way, I find it very objectionable that many stakeholders who worked strenuously to get the administration into office have now been excluded in the government and not consulted on key decisions as necessary and expected.

In fact, some of them are treated as pariahs. A party that ignores justice, equity and inclusion as basic pre-conditions for peace, unity and stability cannot sustain its membership and leadership. Let me redirect the attention of the former Governor of Lagos State to the aspect of my July 31, 2018, statement announcing my exit from APC in which I emphasized that the decision "has been inescapably imposed on me by certain elements and forces within the APC who have ensured that the minimum conditions for peace, cooperation, inclusion and a general sense of belonging did not exist". In that statement, I further noted that those APC elements "have done everything to ensure that the basic rules of party administration, which should promote harmonious relations among the various elements within the party were blatantly disregarded. All governance principles which were required for a healthy functioning of the party and the government were deliberately violated or undermined. And all entreaties for justice, equity and fairness as basic precondition for peace and unity, not only within the party, but also the country at large, were simply ignored, or employed as additional pretext for further exclusion.

The experience of my people and associates in the past three years is that they have suffered alienation and have been treated as outsiders in their own party. Thus, many have become disaffected and disenchanted. At the same time, opportunities to seek redress and correct these anomalies were deliberately blocked as a government-within-a-government had formed an impregnable wall and left in the cold, everyone else who was not recognized as “one of us”. This is why my people, like all self-respecting people would do, decided to seek accommodation elsewhere". Tinubu himself will recall that during the various meetings he had with me at the time he was pursuing reconciliation within the APC, I raised all the above issues. I can also vividly recall that he himself always expressed his displeasure with the style of the government and also mentioned that he had equally suffered disrespect from the same government which we all worked to put in office. I also made the point that whatever travails I have gone through in the last three years belong to the past and will not shape my decisions now and in the future. However, during those meetings, the point of disagreement between Tinubu and I is that while I expressed my worries that there is nothing on ground to assure me that the administrative style and attitude would change in the next four years in a manner that will enable us to deliver the positive changes we promised to our people, he (Tinubu) expressed a strong opinion that he would rather 'support a Buhari on the hospital stretcher' to get a second term because in 2023, power will shift to the South-west. This viewpoint of Tinubu’s was not only expressed to me but to several of my colleagues.

So much for acting in national interest. It is clear that while my own decision is based on protecting the collective national interest, Tinubu will rather live with the identified inadequacies of the government for the sake of fulfilling and preserving his presidential ambition in 2023. This new position of Tinubu has only demonstrated inconsistency — particularly when one reviews his antecedents over the years. Again, let me reiterate my position that my uncertain and complex relationship with Tinubu has been continually defined by the event of 2014 when myself and other leaders of the APC opposed the Muslim-Muslim ticket arrangement about to be foisted on the APC for the 2015 polls. It should be noted that he has not forgotten the fact that I took the bull by the horns and told him that in the interest of the country, he should accept the need for the party to present a balanced ticket for the 2015 General Elections in terms of religion and geo-political zones. Since that time he has been very active; plotting at every point to undermine me, both within and outside the National Assembly.

It is a surprise to me that Asiwaju Tinubu is still peddling the falsehood about the fact that my defection is about automatic ticket and sharing of resources. Members of the public will recall that when the issue of my decision to quit APC came to the fore and many APC leaders were holding meetings with me, a newspaper owned by the same Tinubu published a false report about the promise of automatic tickets, oil blocks and other benefits. I immediately rebutted their claims and categorically stated that I never discussed any such personal and pecuniary benefits with anybody. My challenge that anybody who has contrary facts should come forward with them still remains open.

 It should be known that Democracy is a system that allows people to freely make their choices. It is my choice that I have decided to join others to present a viable alternative platform for Nigerians in the coming elections. Tinubu and leaders of the APC had better respect this decision or lawfully deal with it. As for me, Allah gives power to whom He wishes. Human beings can only aspire and strive to fulfill their aspirations.

Signed: Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, CON, President of the Senate.

RRS Rescue Hit and Run Victim, gives First Aid

Member of Rapid Respond Squad police team attach to Lagos state rescue a victim of hit and run on Ojota bridge, Lagos.
The police officer said that they place value on human lives and its our duty to rescue people