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NNSS OJO 89 ALUMNI DONATES LAPTOPS TO ALMA MATER

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NNSS OJO 89 ALUMNI DONATES LAPTOPS TO ALMA MATER

The 1989 set of the Nigerian Navy Secondary School, NNSS, Ojo, Lagos State has donated 35 brand new laptops to their alma mater in support of digital learning to marked their 35th anniversary celebration as a reunion.

President of the NNSS Ojo ’89 Set, Mr. Oluwafemi Awoyemi, announced this while speaking at the event, which was held on Saturday, 4th October, 2025, at Nigerian Navy Sports Complex, Navy Town, Ojo,Lagos State.

Mr. Awoyemi commended the school for the quality education, discipline, and values it instilled in them, which, according to him, have continued to shape their lives and careers in the military and other professional fields.

He noted that the reunion was not just a celebration of old memories but a testament to the enduring spirit of unity, brotherhood, altruism, and patriotism that defines graduates of NNSS Ojo.

The president described the laptops donation as a token of appreciation to the school, adding that the gesture was deliberately aimed at empowering current students with digital tools that will prepare them for the future of work.

“We are passionate about equipping the students with 21st-century learning tools. The future belongs to those who are digitally prepared, and we want NNSS Ojo students to be at the forefront,” Awoyemi said.

In her remarks, the Commandant of NNSS Ojo, Captain Nkari Ngaji Adeyemi, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the ’89 set for their generous contribution, describing the gesture as a source of motivation and pride for both the staff and students.

She encouraged the students to emulate the alumni’s spirit of giving back and to always prioritize the interests of the school, even after completing their education.

“You all are living proofs that NNSS Ojo has made a positive impact in your lives. Your donation has created a consciousness among our current students to cultivate the habit of giving back to society,” Captain Adeyemi stated.

She also noted that the laptops would complement previous donations made by other alumni sets, which included scholarships and educational aids, and called on more past students to support the school’s transformative journey toward excellence in teaching and learning.

Delivering his goodwill message, the Special Guest of Honour, Commodore Shehu Mohammed Tasiu, who is the Commander, NNS WEY, described the donation as a commendable example of partnership for national educational development.

He emphasized that the government alone can not bridge the gaps in the education sector without the active involvement of individuals, private organizations, and alumni bodies.

“Schools that maintain lasting relationships with their alumni often benefit from continuous support. Alumni engagement is a vital catalyst for institutional growth,” Commodore Tasiu stated.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Parents and Teachers Association (PTA), Engr. Aderemi Adetunji applauded the ’89 set for their generosity and commitment to uplifting the students.

He assured that the PTA would continue to strengthen the existing collaboration between the association, school management, alumni, and students.

The celebration featured a variety of sporting and entertainment activities, during which students participated in friendly competitions. Gift items were presented to winners, adding colour and excitement to the memorable event.

Governor Soludo Empowers 8,300 Youths with N3.5 billion in Digital Skills Programme

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Governor Soludo Empowers 8,300 Youths with N3.5 billion in Digital Skills Programme

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has empowered 8,300 youths with N3.5 billion grants in his administration’s digital skills programme, One-Youth-Two-Skills Plus, during their graduation and certification ceremony.

The funds were disbursed to the graduands at the event, which took place at the International Convention Centre, Awka, with beneficiaries drawn from Anambra and beyond.

The governor stated that the innovation scheme launched in October 2022 aligns with his promise to make 1,000 youths in the state millionaires annually.

Governor Soludo stated that to enable the success of the programme, his government has set aside funds through the Anambra Small Business Agency to provide loans to interested participants.

In light of this, the State’s Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Aghamba, commended the governor’s efforts in actualising the project and its transformational impact. Also, the Chairman of the scheme, Professor Chinedu Onyeizugbe, reported a 48 percent increase in participation and suggested the programme as a model for scholars and Anambra youths.

The first cohort in 2023 empowered 5,000 youths with N2 billion, with over 1,000 of them now running successful ventures. While eulogizing Governor Soludo for the laudable initiative, some beneficiaries testified that the training and grants had enabled them to become employers of labour.

The training programmes for innovation in Anambra under the governor’s tentacle include the ‘One-Youth-Two-Skill programme, Code Anambra, a training scheme for skills acquisition, and the ‘One Million Digital Tribe’ for digital training, where graduates of the various schemes were rewarded with employment opportunities and with laptops to enhance their skills.

Recently, the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) approved additional training and a code of conduct for the state’s law enforcement agents to enhance performance and for a livable homeland.

According to the State’s Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, this stems from Governor Soludo’s transformation of the vital sectors of the state, and that the training will enhance their effectiveness on how they should operate.

Navy Hands Over 419 Bags of Seized Foreign Rice to Customs in Joint Anti-Smuggling Operation

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Navy Hands Over 419 Bags of Seized Foreign Rice to Customs in Joint Anti-Smuggling Operation

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, FOB, Badagry, has handed over 419 bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice to the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Seme Area Command, in a coordinated operation aimed at curbing smuggling across the nation’s coastal corridors.

The seizure followed intensified patrols and surveillance operations by the Navy’s Quick Response Teams along the Badagry-Porto Novo Creek and adjoining backwaters—areas notorious for smuggling activities.

Speaking during the official handover ceremony, the Commanding Officer, FOB Badagry, Navy Captain B. O. Omotayo, represented by the Base Administrative Officer, Lieutenant Commander S. O. Talabi, reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to maritime security and economic protection.

He said the operation was in line with the Chief of the Naval Staff’s Strategic Directive 06–2023, which prioritizes maintaining a secure maritime environment as a catalyst for national development.

“Our actions are guided by the Chief of the Naval Staff’s directive to ensure that Nigeria’s maritime space remains safe, productive, and free from criminal activities. We will continue to work closely with sister agencies to deny smugglers the freedom to operate,” Captain Omotayo stated.

He commended the personnel of the base for their vigilance and professionalism, stressing that their consistent efforts have disrupted several smuggling routes and deterred economic saboteurs operating along the waterways.

“The Nigerian Navy, particularly the Badagry base, will sustain intelligence-led operations while enhancing collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service and local communities to maintain pressure on those undermining the nation’s economy,” he added.

Captain Omotayo further warned individuals involved in smuggling and other illicit maritime activities to desist, affirming the Navy’s readiness to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial waters and economic interests.

The handover to the Nigeria Customs Service was conducted under the framework of the Harmonized Standard Operating Procedure (HSOP) on inter-agency collaboration, reinforcing the synergy between security and enforcement agencies in combating cross-border crimes.

LASU Queens Return After Flying Africa’s Flag at World University Games in China

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LASU Queens Return After Flying Africa’s Flag at World University Games in China

The female football team of the Lagos State University, LASU Queens, has returned to Nigeria after proudly representing Africa at the Fédération Internationale du Sport Universitaire, FISU World University Games held in Dalian, China.

The team, which departed Nigeria on September 17 and returned on September 29, 2025, was warmly received by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, on Friday, October 3, 2025, at her office in the Babatunde Raji Fashola Senate Building, Ojo Campus.

Led by Professor Simeon Dosunmu, Chairman of the LASU Sports Council, and supported by Mr. Olatunde Owoyemi, Deputy Director of Sports, the delegation presented a comprehensive report on the team’s participation and achievements at the global university games.

Professor Dosunmu noted that despite initial logistical challenges in Dalian, the LASU Queens displayed resilience, competing in specially arranged matches that enhanced their tactical skills and international exposure. He added that the team’s impressive showing has already earned LASU multiple invitations to future tournaments — a testament to the University’s growing stature in African sports.

Welcoming the athletes, Professor Olatunji-Bello commended the team for their dedication and professionalism, describing their representation as a “moment of pride not only for LASU but for Nigeria and Africa as a whole.” She urged the players to use the experience gained from competing on the global stage to inspire other students and further strengthen LASU’s sports culture.

The visit, attended by members of university management and senior officials, also featured the team’s captain, Folashade Ekun, who doubles as the LASUSU Sports Director, and Coach Nusa Ihaza, Judo Coach.

Sterling Holdco’s Public Offer Gains Momentum as New Investors Rally

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Sterling Holdco’s Public Offer Gains Momentum as New Investors Rally

Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc, (‘Sterling Holdco’), the parent company of The Alternative Bank, Sterling Bank, SterlingFI, and a number of other novel business solutions, has witnessed a very positive response to its public offer, as investors rally for a stake in the company’s future.

The public offer, launched on September 17, 2025, has quickly become one of the most talked-about opportunities in the Nigerian financial market, with analysts predicting that the offer will prove to be amongst the most lucrative in the sector’s investment landscape.

The Sterling Public Offer has sparked widespread interest, with market experts noting that the price, which is about 6% below its current trading price, presents an attractive entry point for both institutional and retail investors.

The offer is set to close soon, but the rapid pace of interest has led many to speculate that
the full subscription has already been reached or even exceeded much earlier than expected.

According to leading financial analysts, Sterling Holdco’s strategic expansion plans, solid market position, and innovative financial products have positioned it as a major contender in Nigeria’s banking sector.

The public offer is widely regarded as an exciting proposition for investors looking to capitalise on a company with strong fundamentals and an ambitious growth trajectory.

With a price point set at a discount to current trading prices, the offer is seen as a compelling opportunity for both long-term and short-term investors.

Sterling Holdco has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. One of the most compelling indicators of the company’s underlying strength is the impressive growth of its share price. In the past year, the Holding company’s share price has grown steadily from ₦4.00 to
nearly ₦8.00 per share.

This increase in the company’s stock price speaks volumes about the underlying value and confidence in its business model, leadership, and growth trajectory.

Sterling Holdco, known for its strategic ownership of two banks, a wealth management company, and a number of innovative consumer businesses, is seeking to raise additional capital through the issuance of 12.58 billion ordinary shares at ₦7.00 per share.

The proceeds from the public offer will be strategically deployed to further strengthen the Holdco’s capital base and fund its growth initiatives over the next 36 months.

Polaris Bank, NCF Extend Tree Planting Campaign to Lagos, Ogun, Kaduna

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Polaris Bank, NCF Extend Tree Planting Campaign to Lagos, Ogun, Kaduna

Polaris Bank, in partnership with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation, NCF has expanded its tree planting initiative to three states; Lagos, Ogun and Kaduna, in a renewed effort to tackle climate change, restore degraded land, and promote environmental sustainability across Nigeria.

The programme, which kicked off in 2024 during the Bank’s World Environment Day commemoration, has now spread to the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in Ogun State, and Sardauna Memorial College in Kaduna State.

At the Lagos edition, held at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Polaris Bank’s Executive Director, Commercial and Retail, Chris Ofikulu, described the initiative as a reflection of the Bank’s deep commitment to environmental sustainability.

He recalled leading the Bank’s first tree planting activity at Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in 2024, stressing that the project aligns with the United Nations Decade of Ecosystem Restoration.

“Polaris Bank sees sustainability not merely as a responsibility but as a business imperative. Through this initiative, we reaffirm our role beyond banking services and remain committed to the collective goal of planting 10,000 trees,” Ofikulu said.

Executive Director, Operations, Sharafadeen Muhammad, added that protecting the environment is a shared duty, urging more investments in reserves that conserve biodiversity while creating economic value.

At the Ogun State leg of the exercise, Divisional Head, Ogun/Oyo, Yetunde Okeleye, noted that the project demonstrates Polaris Bank’s ethos of embedding sustainability into its culture. “By planting economic trees across the country, including here in Ogun State, we are restoring degraded land, preventing soil erosion, and combating climate change,” she said.

In Kaduna, Acting Group Head, North West, Kabir Lawal, emphasized the Bank’s adherence to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. “Sustainability is not just a catchphrase but our culture. Every decision we make is guided by ESG principles, ensuring that we tackle environmental challenges while empowering communities and driving inclusive growth,” he said.

The NCF, represented at the events, commended Polaris Bank’s leadership, stressing that the selected trees; comprising fruit-bearing and shade-providing species, would support food security, control erosion, and improve local ecosystems.

Community leaders at FUNAAB and Sardauna Memorial College also expressed gratitude to Polaris Bank and NCF, describing the campaign as both timely and impactful in addressing the global climate crisis at the grassroots.

UNILAG Showcases Industrial Potential as Trade Minister Takes Delivery of Made-in-Nigeria Official Car

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UNILAG Showcases Industrial Potential as Trade Minister Takes Delivery of Made-in-Nigeria Official Car

The University of Lagos, UNILAG, has showcased its growing role in Nigeria’s industrial and educational advancement after it played host to the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole, MFR.

In a ceremony coinciding with Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day, Dr. Oduwole, an alumna and former lecturer of the institution’s Faculty of Law, officially received her new ministerial vehicle, a Nord Demir SUV assembled at the Nord UNILAG Assembly Plant.

She stressed that patronage of locally made vehicles would strengthen foreign exchange reserves, expand job opportunities, and deepen research and innovation within Nigerian universities.

The Minister also highlighted that one of the Tinubu administration’s notable achievements in its first two years is the stabilisation of the national economy, a goal that aligns with UNILAG’s innovative partnerships.

“This is a testament to supporting the Nigeria-First Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are committed to helping Nigerian businesses scale across the country, the African continent, and beyond,” she noted.

On her part, UNILAG’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, described the moment as “a fulfilment of vision,” reflecting the university’s resolve to place industry-driven innovation at the heart of its academic mission.

Professor Ogunsola, who was represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics & Research), Professor Bola Oboh, said the internship opportunity at Nord is open not only to engineering students but also to students from other disciplines.

According to her, the Minister’s choice of a vehicle assembled “right on the soil of her alma mater” is a motivation for many Nigerians “to dream out loud and believe in the limitless possibilities that abound in Nigeria for Nigerians.”

The Nord UNILAG Assembly Plant, launched in July 2022, is the first university-based automobile assembly hub in Africa. Beyond vehicle production, it integrates hands-on learning for students across disciplines, internships, and exposure to emerging technologies such as electric vehicle and drone manufacturing.

Currently, the plant has the capacity to assemble five vehicles on campus, blending education with industrial-scale innovation.

To conclude the event, the Minister, accompanied by UNILAG management, toured the facility, which includes the research and development wing, manufacturing workshop, and showroom.

Lagos CP Leads Strict Enforcement on Tinted Glass Permits

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Lagos CP Leads Strict Enforcement on Tinted Glass Permits

Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has led officers and men of the Command on the field to monitor compliance amid commencement of the full enforcement of regulations governing the use of tinted glass on vehicles, in line with the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 2004.

The full enforcement which began on October 2, 2025 is also in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

Addressing the media, CP Jimoh stressed that the operation was not designed to inconvenience law-abiding citizens but to enhance public safety, curb criminal activities, and ensure compliance with road safety regulations.

He directed that all enforcement be carried out professionally, without harassment or extortion, warning that officers found culpable would face disciplinary measures, while their commanders would also be held accountable.

Vehicle owners who are yet to obtain valid permits were advised to register at www.possap.gov.ng, while those unwilling to secure permits were urged to remove their tints or replace factory-fitted tinted glass with transparent ones. Vehicles found to be in violation will be impounded, and offenders prosecuted accordingly.

The Commissioner of Police also encouraged members of the public to report any unprofessional conduct during the exercise, assuring that the operation will be executed fairly, with full respect for citizens’ rights.

For complaints or misconduct reports, residents may contact the Lagos State Police Command Complaint Response Unit via phone at 09111111150, 09111991116, 08090277712, 08090277714, 08090277713, or 08090277711, and on social media platforms: WhatsApp (09111111151), X (formerly Twitter) – @LagosPoliceNG, @CruLagospolice; Facebook – @NPF Lagos; Instagram – @Policeng_Lagos.

UNILAG Celebrates 43 First-Class Law Graduates at 2024 Bar Examinations

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UNILAG Celebrates 43 First-Class Law Graduates at 2024 Bar Examinations

The University of Lagos, UNILAG has celebrated 43 outstanding graduates of its Faculty of Law who earned First-Class honours at the 2024 Nigerian Law School Bar Examinations, one of the highest figures recorded by a single institution in the country.

The recognition ceremony, held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the Faculty’s Boardroom, drew a distinguished audience including the Minister of State, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Oyelowo Oyewo; faculty members; students; and alumni.

Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research) Prof. Bola Oboh praised the faculty’s culture of academic excellence and urged the new lawyers to uphold the highest ideals of the profession.

The Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Abiola Sanni (SAN), described the achievement as a testament to the faculty’s rigorous standards. He also highlighted recent milestones, including a strategic partnership with the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom.

In their goodwill messages, Dr. Oduwole and Prof. Oyewo encouraged the honorees to maintain professionalism, integrity, and national service while remaining loyal ambassadors of UNILAG. The highlight of the event was the presentation of commemorative medals and congratulatory handshakes to the 43 graduates, symbolising both personal triumph and institutional pride.

The event also featured major announcements from the UNILAG Alumni Association. Its President Worldwide, Engr. Ife Oyedele (FNSE), unveiled plans to launch the UNILAG Alumni App, a digital platform designed to connect graduates across generations, foster mentorship, and celebrate achievements.

Oyedele also revealed that the association is working on a 1,800-bed hostel facility to boost infrastructure and improve student welfare. He called on the honorees to actively engage with the alumni body, noting that strong alumni networks have helped global institutions achieve remarkable development.

Lagos City Mall Hosts Special Edition of Open Mall Fashion Show

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The Lagos City Mall, Onikan, came alive on Saturday, September 27, 2025, as youths, fashion lovers, and creatives gathered for the 5th edition of the Foremade Open Mall Fashion Show and Exhibition.

The Lagos City Mall, Onikan, came alive on Saturday, September 27, 2025, as youths, fashion lovers, and creatives gathered for the special edition of the Open Mall Fashion Show and Exhibition.

The colorful event, anchored by Vibez The King and McLawrence, featured dazzling runway showcases from 10 elite Nigerian designers, including JuneOne Fashion, House of Triniks, Diamond Joyce, Omotailor, Jiri, Exclusive by Ike, D’Necesa, Art by RMA, and Black Billionaire Fashion Brand, among others. More than 50 professional models graced the runway, unveiling cutting-edge designs that celebrated Nigerian creativity.

The night was also filled with music as legendary rapper Terry Tha Rapman, alongside Gandy VT, Reynbow, Rayona, and other performers, thrilled the audience with electrifying performances.

Produced by Harrison Akadidi of Starr and Glenn for Foremade.com, a digital marketplace for Nigerian vendors and shoppers, the event was described as a melting pot of fashion, music, and culture.

Akadidi noted that the initiative aligns with Foremade.com’s vision of promoting Nigerian SMEs and homegrown talent. “Foremade is pro-Nigerian brands. We are actively pushing to help them make sales and scale. Hosting an event like this shows our commitment to supporting local businesses,” he said.

He acknowledged the logistical challenges of staging the show across two floors of the mall but expressed satisfaction with the smooth execution, adding that the long-term goal is to grow the platform into a hub that amplifies not only fashion but also other Nigerian brands.

Hip-hop star Terry Tha Rapman praised the initiative, describing Foremade as a vibrant space for creativity and collaboration. He revealed that he modeled an outfit from fashion brand, Billions for free during the show and hinted at possible future collaborations with Nigerian designers.

The Foremade Open Mall Fashion Show continues to position itself as one of Lagos’ most innovative fashion and lifestyle showcases, blending style, music, and entrepreneurship in one platform.