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Adeniyi Pledges Stronger Partnership as Customs, Yakubu Gowon University Renew Alliance

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blacktalker
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The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has pledged to deepen the long-standing partnership between the Service and Yakubu Gowon University through renewed support for education, research, and student development.

Adeniyi made the pledge on Tuesday at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja while receiving the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Hakeem Fawehinmi, and other principal officers during a courtesy visit.

The Customs boss recalled efforts made during his tenure as Commandant of the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College to formalise a partnership between both institutions through a Memorandum of Understanding.

“I have a long institutional history with this university. We went very far in the process and were close to signing, but leadership changes on both sides affected the process,” Adeniyi said.

He noted that despite the delay in formalising the agreement, the Nigeria Customs Service had continued to support the university through various interventions, including the donation of a 32-seater bus and the establishment of a computer centre equipped with nearly 100 workstations.

“These were deliberate efforts aimed at building lasting institutional partnerships,” he stated.

Adeniyi assured the university management that the Service would consider new proposals for collaboration, especially projects capable of making meaningful impact on students and the learning environment.

“For us, beyond legacy, what matters most is impact. We understand the realities facing Nigerian universities, from transportation challenges to infrastructure gaps,” he said.

He added that the Service was willing to adopt a phased approach in executing projects where necessary, focusing on priority areas with the greatest benefit.

The Comptroller-General also stressed the importance of strengthening the capacity of the only conventional public university in the Federal Capital Territory.

“It is important for us to have a university in Abuja that truly reflects the status of Nigeria’s capital. I am willing to work with you in that regard,” he added.

Earlier, Fawehinmi commended the leadership of the Customs Service and its contributions to national development, describing the agency as a critical institution supporting the Federal Government’s reform agenda.

“We have come with the highest level of leadership of the university to congratulate you and appreciate the tremendous work being done by the Nigeria Customs Service under your leadership,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that the university, with an undergraduate population of nearly 40,000 students, faces increasing operational and infrastructural demands.

According to him, support in areas such as transportation, ICT infrastructure, research facilities, and professional collaboration would significantly enhance the institution’s capacity.

Fawehinmi also identified the university’s Centre for Defence and Migration Studies as a potential area of collaboration with the Customs Service, particularly in border management, migration studies, executive training, and national security research.

“The real beneficiaries of such collaboration will be young Nigerians who represent the future leadership of this country,” he said.

RTEAN South-West Seeks Labour Minister’s Intervention Over Leadership Crisis

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blacktalker
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The South-West zone of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, RTEAN has called on the Minister of Labour and Productivity, , Muhammad Dingyadi to intervene in the ongoing crisis between the zone and the union’s National President, Dr. Musa Mohamed.

Speaking at a press conference in , the South-West Zonal Chairman of RTEAN, , accused the national president of mal-administration, abuse of power, and alleged embezzlement of union funds.

Agbede said the allegations prompted the South-West zone to declare a trade dispute in line with the union’s constitution and the Labour Act, a move he said grants the zone temporary autonomy pending the resolution of the matter.

“The South-West discovered some maladministration and misuse of power, embezzlement of union funds, on the side of the embattled national president of the union,” Agbede said.

According to him, the grievances were earlier presented to the National Executive Council (NEC), but the council allegedly failed to address the concerns raised by the zone.

“We held a meeting and conveyed our grievances to the NEC, but when the report got there, NEC gave it no audience,” he stated.

Agbede disclosed that the zone subsequently petitioned the Labour Ministry and requested that Mohammed step aside while investigations continue.

“We made a case that the embattled Musa Mohammed should step aside because he cannot be a judge in his own case,” he said.

The South-West chairman also alleged irregularities in the election that produced Mohammed as national president, claiming the delegate conference was held inside an army barracks in Abuja and attended only by loyalists of the president.

“It has never happened before. He was the first that took the union conference to such a venue,” he alleged.

Agbede maintained that the South-West zone would continue to administer its affairs independently until the dispute is resolved.

“So if it takes 100 years, we will continue to administer ourselves because it is enshrined in our constitution and Labour Act,” he added.

Also speaking, the South-West Secretary of RTEAN, Tiwalade Akingbade confirmed that meetings with the Ministry of Labour were ongoing and expressed optimism that the matter would soon be resolved.

“We are expected to be in Abuja again this week for another meeting,” Akingbade said, while urging members to remain calm and united.

Ogun Police Dismiss Report on Ajuwon Incident, Insist Case Was Properly Handled

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blacktalker
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Ogun Police Dismiss Curfew Rumours, Assure Residents of Safety

The Ogun State Police Command has refuted a media report alleging the criminalisation of a civil dispute involving tenants in Ajuwon, describing the publication as misleading and a distortion of facts.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, , the Command said the report titled “Ogun Police, Tenants and the Peril of Criminalising Civil Disputes” failed to accurately represent the circumstances surrounding the case.

According to the police, the incident was initially reported on April 9, 2026, by a relative of the victim, who alleged that a dispute between a landlord and his tenants over electricity issues escalated into a physical confrontation, leading to a medical emergency.

The Command explained that the case was treated strictly as a criminal matter involving alleged assault and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and not as a civil tenancy dispute as portrayed in the publication.

It added that all parties involved were lawfully invited, statements were obtained, and due investigative procedures were followed in line with constitutional provisions.

“Following preliminary investigation, the matter was managed at the divisional level, and the parties were granted administrative bail in accordance with established procedures, while efforts were made towards de-escalation and amicable resolution,” the statement said.

The police further disclosed that the complainant later withdrew the case through a formal letter after both parties reached an amicable settlement.

“For the avoidance of doubt, at no time were any persons unlawfully detained. All actions taken were within constitutional and procedural limits,” the Command stated.

The police also noted that it had earlier provided clarification to a media platform that sought its response, but expressed concern that the subsequent report contained what it described as selective interpretation and misrepresentation of facts.

The Command warned against the spread of misleading narratives capable of undermining public trust in law enforcement, reiterating its commitment to professionalism, neutrality, and adherence to the rule of law.

Members of the public were advised to disregard sensational reports and rely on verified information from official police communication channels.

Lagos Launches Africa’s First Ferry Safety Mentorship Programme

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blacktalker
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The Lagos State Government has launched Africa’s first Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme, aimed at strengthening safety standards and building capacity within the state’s waterways transport system.

The initiative was unveiled by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Damilola Emmanuel on behalf of Governor in Lagos.

Describing the programme as historic, Emmanuel said the initiative underscores Lagos’ leadership in maritime innovation and safety on the continent.

“We are not just launching a programme; we are making history with Africa’s very first Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme. Once again, Lagos sets the pace for the continent,” he said.

The programme, which will run for 18 months, will train 50 selected ferry professionals, including captains, deckhands, marine engineers, safety officers, and fleet managers. Participants will undergo a hybrid training structure combining self-paced learning, online mentorship, and practical sessions.

According to Emmanuel, the initiative is anchored on the state government’s broader Blue Economy agenda, with safety at the core of waterways development.

“Ensuring the safety of everyone who journeys on our waterways is not just a duty, it is a calling. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to this cause with renewed vigour and ambition,” he stated.

The programme is being implemented in partnership with , whose consultative status with the International Maritime Organisation, IMO is expected to ensure that participants are trained to global best practices.

Emmanuel said the collaboration reflects Lagos State’s determination to uphold the highest safety standards across its waterways transport system.

“Our partnership with Interferry guarantees that our ferry operators are trained to the world’s highest standards. This is about safeguarding every passenger, on every vessel, every day,” he added.

He also charged the participants to take full advantage of the opportunity, describing them as pioneers who would drive a new culture of safety across Lagos waterways.

“You bear both great honour and responsibility. Through this programme, we are investing in your potential as leaders and changemakers,” he said.

The Lagos State Government reiterated its commitment to building a safe, efficient, and globally competitive waterways transport system, positioning the programme as a key step toward achieving that goal.

LSSTF Launches Intelligence Unit, Introduces Messaging-Only Security Tip Lines

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blacktalker
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The Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF has launched a dedicated Intelligence Unit as part of efforts to strengthen intelligence-led policing and improve collaboration between residents and security agencies in the State.

The initiative, announced by the Executive Secretary/CEO, , introduces two messaging-only security tip lines, 0911 019 5555 and 0916 201 1179, through which Lagosians can submit information, videos, pictures, and other forms of evidence to aid security operations.

Speaking at a press conference held at the LSSTF headquarters in Alausa, Ogunsan described the development as a major step toward safeguarding lives and property in the state.

“Today marks a significant step forward in our collective commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State,” he said. “The Lagos State Security Trust Fund is establishing an Intelligence Unit dedicated to receiving security-related information from members of the public and ensuring its timely transmission to relevant security agencies.”

According to him, the platform is designed to harness grassroots intelligence by enabling residents to share real-time, actionable information in multimedia formats, thereby enhancing situational awareness and supporting faster decision-making by authorities.

He emphasised that the initiative underscores the importance of citizen participation in security, noting that law enforcement efforts are more effective when supported by credible information from the public.

“Security is a shared responsibility,” Ogunsan said. “While our security agencies continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace and order, the role of citizens in providing credible information cannot be overstated.”

The LSSTF boss clarified that the tip lines are strictly for intelligence gathering and not emergency response, urging residents to continue using designated emergency channels for urgent interventions.

“It is a no-call number, strictly for video messages and pictures to serve as evidence,” he explained. “When we receive the information, we filter and forward it to the appropriate agencies for necessary action.”

Ogunsan also warned against misuse of the platform, stressing that false or misleading information would not be tolerated and could attract serious consequences.

“The effectiveness of this initiative depends largely on the quality and integrity of the information received. Any malicious use of this platform undermines security efforts,” he said.

He assured residents that all credible information would be handled with strict confidentiality, with measures in place to protect the identity of informants.

The LSSTF said the Intelligence Unit is not intended to replace existing security agencies but to complement their operations by serving as an interventionist support system.

“This initiative represents a partnership between government, security agencies, and the people,” Ogunsan added. “Together, we can build a safer and more secure Lagos.”

With the launch, the LSSTF expands its role beyond providing operational support to security agencies, positioning itself as a key driver of intelligence-driven security coordination in the state.

Obi’s Entry Sparks Crisis in Anambra NDC as Chairman Faces Allegations, Legal Action Looms

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blacktalker
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A fresh crisis has erupted within the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC in Anambra State following the entry of into the party, with allegations of manipulation and financial impropriety threatening to destabilise its structure.

The tension, according to party sources, began after the local government and state congress held in on May 4, 2026. Aggrieved stakeholders have since initiated moves to challenge the legitimacy of the exercise in court.

At the centre of the controversy is the Chairman of Ekwusigo Local Government Area Caretaker Committee, Chukwudile Okoye, who accused the state chairman, , of manipulating the party’s membership registration process and misappropriating funds.

In a protest letter obtained by our correspondent, Okoye disclosed plans to institute legal proceedings seeking the nullification of both the membership registration exercise and the congress.

“My intention is to institute legal proceedings against the NDC on the registration of members. I seek the nullification and invalidation of the entire process. This is a fight against injustice occasioned by greed and manipulation,” he said.

Okoye alleged that despite funding the registration process in Ekwusigo LGA with personal resources, his name was removed from the party’s membership portal on the eve of the congress, effectively excluding him from participation.

“I used my personal funds, dedicated my time and committed my energy to build the party. I single-handedly funded the registration exercise in my LGA, only for the State Chairman to allegedly embezzle funds allocated for the exercise and manipulate the portal to remove my name,” he claimed.

He further alleged that his exclusion was linked to his refusal to engage in what he described as “transactional politics,” adding that he had also received threats over his stance.

While withholding further details, Okoye warned that the situation could destabilise what he described as a rapidly growing political platform if not urgently addressed. He also called for the removal of the state chairman over alleged incompetence and lack of integrity.

Some party members who spoke anonymously supported Okoye’s claims. The Youth Leader in the area, Raymond Orabueze, confirmed working with him on grassroots mobilisation and membership registration ahead of the congress.

Another member, Emeka Okonkwo, also acknowledged Okoye’s role in sponsoring mobilisation efforts prior to the disputed exercise.

A video reviewed by our correspondent reportedly showed Okoye previously recognised as the LGA coordinator, raising further questions about the circumstances surrounding his alleged removal from the membership portal.

The unfolding dispute comes at a critical moment for the NDC, following Obi’s reported defection from the African Democratic Congress, a development that has boosted the party’s visibility and support base.

Observers warn that the crisis, if not resolved, could mirror similar legal setbacks in other states, including a recent court ruling in Adamawa where party congresses were nullified over procedural breaches.

Efforts to reach Chukwudifu for comment were unsuccessful as of press time. His phone line was unreachable, and a message sent via WhatsApp had yet to receive a response.

Dangote Refinery Denies Fuel Price Increase, Says Ex-Depot Price Unchanged

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blacktalker
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S&P Identifies Dangote Refinery as Major Driver of Nigeria’s Economic Recovery

Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has dismissed reports of an increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, stating that its ex-depot price remains unchanged.

In a statement, the refinery said it is maintaining its current pricing structure as part of efforts to support stability in Nigeria’s domestic energy market and shield the economy from external shocks.

The company noted that by holding prices steady despite prevailing cost pressures, it is helping to moderate inflationary trends, improve fuel affordability, and ensure uninterrupted supply of petroleum products.

Dangote Refinery reaffirmed its commitment to the consistent supply of high-quality fuel to the Nigerian market, adding that its operations align with national goals of price stability and energy security.

The company also urged the public to rely only on its official communications for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its pricing and operations.

The clarification comes amid heightened sensitivity around fuel pricing in Nigeria, where fluctuations often have immediate effects on transportation costs, food prices, and overall cost of living.

Union Bank Wins ASBON Award for SME Banking Initiatives

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blacktalker
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Union Bank of Nigeria has been named winner of the Best SME Growth Banking Initiatives Award at the 2025 Nigeria National SME Business Awards, organised by the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria, ASBON in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment.

The recognition highlights the bank’s efforts to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through practical financial solutions and improved banking processes, at a time when many Nigerian businesses are prioritising stability and efficiency over rapid expansion.

Industry observers note that the ASBON award focuses on how effectively banks support day-to-day business operations, rather than the scale of their product offerings.

This comes amid growing demand from SMEs for reliable payment systems, faster onboarding, and accessible financing.

Union Bank’s SME strategy over the past year has centred on addressing these needs.

The bank upgraded its Union360 platform and introduced a Straight-Through Processing (STP) digital onboarding system aimed at reducing the time required for businesses to open and operate accounts.

The bank said the improvements have shortened onboarding timelines, increased digital adoption among SME customers, and attracted new business clients.

Access to finance remains a major challenge for SMEs in Nigeria, particularly for businesses without traditional collateral.

In response, Union Bank has adopted a more flexible credit assessment approach, placing greater emphasis on transaction history, cash flow patterns, and active account usage.

The bank’s lending activities have focused on supporting working capital, inventory purchases, equipment financing, and business expansion.

Beyond digital and financial solutions, Union Bank has also strengthened its SME engagement through relationship managers, direct sales agents, and branch networks nationwide.

Its “Adopt, Engage and Grow” campaign was designed to provide consistent support and build long-term relationships with business owners.

The bank’s recognition is also linked to its collaboration with ASBON on the SME Empowerment Challenge, an initiative encouraging entrepreneurs to formalise their operations by maintaining proper financial records and structured growth plans.

Analysts say such initiatives are critical in helping SMEs access funding, partnerships, and larger market opportunities, as proper documentation and financial discipline remain key requirements for growth.

The award comes as SMEs continue to play a central role in Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and economic activity despite operating in a challenging business environment.

Union Bank’s recognition at the ASBON SME Awards underscores the growing importance of banking institutions that provide not only financial products but also practical support systems that enable small businesses to operate more efficiently and sustainably.

Polaris Bank Backs NACCIMA Call Centre to Boost Non-Oil Exports

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blacktalker
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Polaris Bank has supported the launch of a new export support call centre by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, NACCIMA, in a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s non-oil export sector and improving access to global markets.

The initiative, unveiled with backing from the bank, is designed to provide exporters with real-time information, technical assistance, and regulatory guidance to help them navigate the complexities of international trade.

Speaking at the launch, Polaris Bank’s Executive Director, Chris Ofikulu, described the call centre as a critical tool for empowering Nigerian businesses and enhancing their global competitiveness.

“Today, we are marking a pivotal moment in our mission to empower Nigerian businesses for global markets,” Ofikulu said. “Through this collaboration, we are equipping exporters with the tools, infrastructure, and expertise needed to thrive in global markets.”

He noted that the centre would serve as a one-stop hub for exporters, particularly those in the non-oil sector, offering advisory services, market intelligence, and expert support to bridge existing knowledge and capacity gaps.

Polaris Bank contributed key infrastructure to the project, including laptops, internet-enabled modems, workstations, and high-capacity printers, to ensure smooth and efficient operations of the facility.

According to Ofikulu, the initiative aligns with the bank’s broader strategy to promote trade facilitation and economic growth by improving exporters’ access to finance and critical market information.

“This centre is not just a call centre; it is a catalyst for success, providing exporters with the resources, knowledge, and access they need to excel,” he added.

The collaboration also reflects Polaris Bank’s continued support for small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), with the bank offering financing solutions such as working capital support and stock refinancing, alongside advisory services on export documentation processes.

In addition, the bank leverages its digital platform, VULTe, to enable seamless intra-African trade and faster payments through the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS).

Ofikulu expressed optimism that the partnership with NACCIMA would significantly enhance export readiness among Nigerian businesses and position them to compete more effectively on the global stage.

The launch of the NACCIMA Export Support Call Centre underscores growing efforts by financial institutions and trade bodies to diversify Nigeria’s economy by promoting non-oil exports and strengthening the country’s participation in international trade.

LASU Dominates National Kickboxing Championship with 19 Medals Haul

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blacktalker
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LASU Dominates National Kickboxing Championship with 19 Medals Haul

The Lagos State University, LASU kickboxing team has emerged overall best at the National Open Kickboxing Championship held at the National Stadium Abuja, clinching a total of 19 medals.

The championship, which ran from April 13 to April 19, 2026, in Abuja, featured about 15 teams from across the country. LASU outperformed all competing institutions, securing 8 gold, 6 silver, and 5 bronze medals in a commanding display.

Leading the medal haul were Faruq Saheed and Bright Uwatse, who each won two gold medals.

Other standout performances included Faesol Fasasi, Opeyemi Adeyemi, and Aishat Adeshina, who each secured one gold and one silver medal. Raheem Olutusin added one gold and one bronze, while Rejoice Kowop contributed one silver and one bronze.

Christopher Ojo won two silver medals, while Philip Olatunji secured two bronze medals. Opeyemi Lawal rounded off the tally with one bronze medal, ensuring that all ten athletes on the team returned with at least one medal.

The team was led by the Director of Sports and Recreation, Idowu Owoyemi, alongside four officials, underscoring the university’s commitment to sports development and excellence.

The victory further reinforces LASU’s growing reputation as a powerhouse in collegiate sports in Nigeria.

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