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Corona Schools Marks 70th Anniversary with Glamorous Black-Tie Gala in Lagos

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Corona Schools Marks 70th Anniversary with Glamorous Black-Tie Gala in Lagos

In commemoration of its 70th anniversary, Corona Schools Trust Council has hosted a black-tie gala in Lagos that brought together alumni, dignitaries, faculty, and friends in a colourful celebration of seven decades of educational excellence and legacy.

Despite a downpour earlier in the day, the atmosphere remained festive, as guests turned out in full black-tie elegance for the high-profile reunion. Attendees represented Corona Schools’ various branches, including Apapa (now Corona College of Education), Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Gbagada (formerly Ebute Metta/Yaba), Agbara, and Lekki.

The evening featured live performances, fine dining, memory-sharing, and fundraising, while also unveiling future-focused projects. Guests were treated to a lavish culinary experience and live music by the Magnifico Band and DJ Cheflon, with the event hosted by veteran actor Keppy Ekpenyong Bassey and broadcaster Toun Aderele.

Corona Schools Marks 70th Anniversary with Glamorous Black-Tie Gala in Lagos

The event, held at Jewel Aeida, Lekki, was attended by prominent alumni including former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria Yemi Cardoso, former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke, Sahara Group CEO Dr. Tony Cole, Managing Director of NELFUND Mr. Akin Sawyerr, and health care executive Dr. Yemisi Odubayo, among others.

The formal segment of the night included a tribute to departed alumni and a rousing rendition of the Corona school anthem by the Corona School Choir. Younger pupils from Ikoyi also performed nostalgic school songs, earning applause from the crowd.

President of the Alumni Association, Prince Adebayo Ademiluyi, in his welcome remarks, noted that the event was both a celebration of the past and a reaffirmation of the future, while chairman of the anniversary planning committee, Roland Abiola Odukomaiya, described the gala as “a tribute to a legacy built on excellence, resilience, and impact.”

Also speaking at the event, former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, joked about the friendly rivalry among branches, declaring Yaba “the first and best,” a sentiment that drew laughter and applause from guests. His remarks, along with those from other alumni, highlighted Corona’s role in instilling values and shaping leaders across generations.

One of the highlights of the night was the unveiling of a proposed Tech Hub project by the Trust Council, which is expected to prepare Corona students for the digital future. The council’s chairperson, Justice Bukunola Adebiyi, described the initiative as “a commitment to evolving education in a changing world.”

Fundraising efforts on the night generated over ₦200 million for the tech project and an accompanying scholarship endowment fund. A live auction featuring artwork by renowned artist Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya also helped raise funds. Leading the effort was alumna Caroline Olaseinde, who chaired the fundraising committee.

Corona Schools Marks 70th Anniversary with Glamorous Black-Tie Gala in Lagos

The evening concluded with recognition of the gala’s organising team, led by co-chair Sola Alamutu, who received a standing ovation from the audience. “This night is a testament to what passion and unity can achieve,” she said.

The event was streamed live for alumni around the world and featured interactive experiences such as photo booths, memory displays, and a commemorative souvenir brochure showcasing profiles and stories from the school’s seven-decade history.

Corona Schools was founded in 1955 with the establishment of its first branch in Ikoyi. Over the years, it has expanded into a network of institutions providing top-tier education to generations of Nigerian leaders, professionals, and change-makers.

Access Bank Meets CBN’s New Capital Requirement, Pledges Compliance Amid Regulatory Forbearance

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Access Bank Meets CBN’s New Capital Requirement, Pledges Compliance Amid Regulatory Forbearance

Access Holdings Plc has announced that its banking subsidiary, Access Bank Plc, has successfully met and exceeded the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) new capital requirement of ₦500 billion for commercial banks with international authorisation, positioning it as a leader in the country’s evolving financial landscape.

The disclosure follows a recent letter from the CBN, referenced BSD/DIR/COM/LAB/018/008 and dated June 13, 2025, which outlines temporary regulatory forbearance on the Single Obligor Limit and certain credit facilities.

The apex bank also directed affected institutions to suspend dividend payments, bonuses, and foreign subsidiary investments during the forbearance window.

Access Holdings, in a formal statement to the Nigerian Exchange and the investing public, affirmed that Access Bank Plc is fully compliant with the Single Obligor Limit regulation as of December 31, 2024.

The Bank also confirmed that it remains in line with CBN directives and is working towards meeting all outstanding conditions related to credit facility forbearance by the June 30, 2025 deadline.

“The Bank’s early compliance with the new capitalisation threshold underscores its strong financial position, prudent risk management practices, and strategic readiness for future growth,” the statement read.

Despite the temporary regulatory restrictions, Access Bank reassured its shareholders of continued dividend payments and a robust capital buffer, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable value creation.

“As always, we remain dedicated to delivering long-term value to our shareholders and stakeholders, and we are deeply grateful for their continued trust and support,” the company said.

This development comes amid the CBN’s broader reform strategy to strengthen Nigeria’s banking sector, enhance financial stability, and ensure that banks are better positioned to support the economy through increased lending capacity and global competitiveness.

Access Bank’s proactive capital raising and compliance efforts signal strong investor confidence and align with its growth trajectory as one of Africa’s leading financial institutions.

LASCOCO, EDO STATE SET TO COLLABORATE ON TRAINING OF CORPORATORS

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LASCOCO, EDO STATE SET TO COLLABORATE ON TRAINING OF CORPORATORS
From left: The Acting Registrar of Lagos State Cooperative College, Mr. Abiodun Balogun; Acting Provost, Lagos State Cooperative College, Dr. Walid Adebosin; Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Business, Trade and Cooperatives,(MBTC), Mrs. Felicia Edopholor Esq; Director, MSMEs, (MBTC). Omonbride Oyedoh and Head Digital Marketing,(MBTC),Evelyn Imode

The Lagos State Cooperative College, LASCOCO and the Edo State Ministry of Business, Trade and Cooperatives are to collaborate towards building the capacity of cooperative trustees and corporators in Edo State.

This came to the fore during a working visit by a team from Edo who are in Lagos to understudy the academic programmes and training of the institution.

Welcoming the delegation, the Acting Provost of the College, Dr. Walid Adebosin, expressed the College’s readiness and willingness to enter into any collaboration that would see to the development of cooperative movement and education, as requested by the visiting team, adding that the institution runs entrepreneurial initiatives based academic programmes.

Giving insight into the College’s academic curriculums, he said, “Aside from one of the institution’s mandates which is to build capacities of cooperatives trustees and members, the function of supplying the skill labour requirement of the state birthed the accredited National Diploma programmes and other courses in the institution.

”They are also guided by the philosophy of entrepreneurship initiative which ensures that students have additional skills aside from their diploma qualification certificate in their chosen course of study.”

To drive home the entrepreneurship point, Dr. Adebosin said, “Every student has to take a vocational training programme at the Lagos State Women Development Centre, which is the reason for the collaboration with that arm of the state government agency.”

Furthermore, in deepening the intensive practical knowledge training of the students, many of the National Diploma Programmes and Professional Diploma Programmes lecturers are seasoned practitioners in various fields, including microfinance banks and others.

On the nine months skill-up technical acquisition programme of the institution, Dr. Adebosin, said the vocation which started on the premise of producing qualified standard and quality technicians and semi-skilled labour for the Lekki Free Trade Zone, would benefit the immediate and host community in employment ratio as well provide Medium Small the Micro Enterprises with the needed set of workforce, partnering with a competent technical training institute to ensure quality deliverables to the students.

He noted that the programme was based on the City and Guild’s Curriculum which allowed graduates of the programme to be assessed for certification by the international examination body thereby giving the competitive advantage of international measurable standards in Nigeria to the graduates in addition to the school certificate to be earned.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Business, Trade and Cooperatives, Mrs. Felicia Edopholor Esq, who expressed satisfaction with the academic curriculum and programmes of the College, expressed the desire of the Ministry to collaborate with LASCOCO.

“I have seen the Lagos State Cooperative College and I am impressed. We should be able to collaborate so I would like our team, cooperative societies trustees and members, to come for training at the College or your team can come to Edo State to train them because it is necessary. It is not just enough to run a cooperative society; you should know the nitty-gritty of running it”.

“Furthermore, I am very satisfied with LASCOCO’s curriculum that I have seen, especially the collaboration with the Women Development Centre for skill acquisition. I am also impressed with the College accreditation by JAMB,” she said.

Iran–Israel Tensions: Nigerian Conflict Expert Calls for Global Diplomatic Intervention

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Emeritus Professor Appeals to Governor Sanwo-Olu Over Paltry Pension for Retired LASU Academics

As escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel threaten to plunge the Middle East into deeper chaos, former Chairman of the Conflict Resolution and Policy Advisory Committee at Lagos State University, Emeritus Professor Anetekhai Martins Agenuma has issued an urgent appeal for restraint and coordinated international diplomacy.

In a statement released in Lagos, Prof. Agenuma warned that the confrontation between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the State of Israel has reached a critical tipping point, following a series of deadly attacks and retaliations over the last 72 hours.

“The consequences are no longer hypothetical, they are real, visible, and rising. Civilian lives are being lost, critical infrastructure has been damaged, and the region teeters on the edge of a broader conflict,” he stated.

According to Prof. Agenuma, the ongoing conflict has seen Iranian drone and missile strikes hitting Israeli civilian and urban zones, including medical facilities. In response, Israel has launched air raids on strategic Iranian locations, reportedly including suspected nuclear research sites.

More than 600 fatalities have already been reported, with both nations facing mounting humanitarian crises. International observers also warn of the looming involvement of proxy forces such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthi militia in Yemen, increasing the risk of a full-scale regional war.

In his statement, Prof. Agenuma proposed a series of urgent diplomatic measures to de-escalate the crisis and create a path toward negotiated peace. The first among them is a UN- and G7-brokered 15-day “strike freeze” to halt all military actions and open corridors for humanitarian assistance.

He also advocated for Geneva-led crisis talks, where neutral countries would host indirect negotiations between Iranian and Israeli envoys, as well as the establishment of protected humanitarian corridors coordinated by international aid bodies such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and the World Health Organization.

Political leaders, he argued, must also be held accountable for the tone and content of their public statements. “Calls for regime elimination or full confrontation serve no strategic purpose and only inflame an already volatile situation,” he cautioned.

Prof. Agenuma further urged NATO and allied nations to implement deconfliction protocols and regional containment strategies to prevent the crisis from spilling into broader theatres, including the Red Sea and the Mediterranean.

“This is not a time for vengeance or maximalist ambitions,” he said. “It is a moment that demands maturity, memory, and meaningful mediation.”

Drawing parallels with historic diplomatic flashpoints from the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 to the 2003 Iraq invasion, Prof. Agenuma emphasized the critical importance of swift, multilateral engagement to forestall further bloodshed.

“Both Iran and Israel have much to protect, but they have far more to lose by escalating further,” he noted.

Prof. Agenuma concluded his message with a stern warning: “Silence at this time is complicity. Let it be remembered that true leadership is not shown in battlefield triumphs, but in moments when war is averted. This is a test of modern diplomacy. The world must not fail it.”

A Call to Action Against Plastic Pollution

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A Call to Action Against Plastic Pollution

By Olamide Martins Ogunlade and Esi-Ife Arogundade

Published by Blacktalker

The theme, Beat Plastic Pollution, for this year’s World Environment Day resonates deeply, considering the menace of plastic to our environment. Every year, the United Nations (UN) designates the month of June to awareness of the importance of a healthy environment.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has always maintained that we owe the environment a collective duty of care to have pure air, clean rivers, and forests teeming with life. Our environment is not merely a setting for our lives—it is the basis of our health, well-being, and future.

António Guterres, the United Nations Chief, in his heartfelt message to the world, said, “Plastic pollution is choking our planet – harming ecosystems, well-being, and the climate.

A report by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group stated that the country is estimated to generate an average of 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with its commercial capital, Lagos, generating 870,000 tonnes annually. These numbers are a major cause for concern, especially as the ubiquity of plastic waste is steadily growing, with no directed measures to curb the increase.

Lagos is the state most affected by plastic pollution in West Africa. While some of these plastic wastes are collected and recycled, most are disposed of carelessly, clogging drainage systems, polluting waterways, and destroying the environment.

The state recently announced a ban on Styrofoam, with a view to redefining its ecological and economic landscape. It will commence enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics on July 1. In June 2024, the Federal Government also announced a ban on single-use plastics in government offices, ahead of a planned nationwide ban. But not much has been heard about the proposed ban from this year.

Plastic pollution has become such a serious problem in Nigeria, with regular road users and beach visitors frequently dumping their plastic bottles carelessly, despite the dangers that such plastics pose to the environment.

Plastics not only harm humans and marine life but also degrade the aesthetic appeal and comfort of Nigerian landscapes, threatening cultural ecosystems and environmental security.

Combating plastic pollution in Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes tackling the root cause – fossil fuel production, which generates plastic by-products – and addressing poor waste management practices prevalent in the country.

Government policies should discourage single-use plastics, and significant investment is needed in public awareness campaigns to highlight the dangers of indiscriminate plastic dumping and promote the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle.

It is our collective responsibility to bequeath an environment that future Nigerians can be proud of, and every action counts.

Ogunlade, Associate Director (Climate Change), Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), and Arogundade, a climate change advocate at CAPPA, write from Lagos, Nigeria.

OGUN POLICE FOILS KIDNAP ATTEMPT, ARREST WANTED SUSPECT, RECOVER WEAPONS

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Ogun Police Arrest Cultist in Igbesa, Launch Manhunt for Accomplices

The Ogun State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its fight against crime, with the arrest of a notorious kidnapper and the recovery of weapons linked to previous operations.

Operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit apprehended Clement Elijah, a fugitive wanted since 2024 in connection with a high-profile abduction in Ajelanwa village, where two of his accomplices had earlier been arrested.

According to the Command, Elijah had arrived in the Ibiade community on June 13, 2025, with plans to kidnap a prominent resident of Ago Village in Abigi. However, a timely tip-off and collaborative effort between vigilant locals and law enforcement thwarted the plot.

In a follow-up clearance operation on June 16, the police arrested the gang’s alleged armourer, Posi Friday. Officers recovered a pump-action rifle, a locally fabricated pistol, and eight live cartridges hidden inside a Boom Speaker.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, commended residents of Ibiade and Abigi for their cooperation, which he described as instrumental to the success of the operation.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident, the Command’s Anti-Cultism Unit arrested 14 suspected members of rival cult groups in Ijebu Ode. The arrests, which took place on June 16 across Ijagun, Ogbo, Ijele, and Imaweje areas, followed intelligence reports that the groups were planning attacks during a campus “signing out” celebration.

All suspects are currently undergoing further investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

The Police Command has assured the public of continued security efforts and encouraged residents to remain vigilant and supportive of law enforcement initiatives.

Akabanga Lagos Becomes Exclusive Distributor of Rwanda’s Iconic Chili Oil in Nigeria

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Akabanga Lagos Becomes Exclusive Distributor of Rwanda’s Iconic Chili Oil in Nigeria

Akabanga Lagos has officially become the sole distributor of Akabanga Chili Oil in Nigeria, following its 100% acquisition of Akabanga 4U Limited.

This marks a major milestone for the brand’s expansion in West Africa’s largest consumer market.

Crafted in Rwanda by the renowned Sina Gérard / Entreprise Urwibutso, Akabanga Chili Oil is a premium blend of yellow African habanero peppers, sunseed oil, and natural spices.

Available in 20ml and 100ml bottles, the chili oil is cherished for its distinct smoky, earthy flavor and versatility, perfect as a condiment or cooking oil across a variety of local and international dishes.

With this acquisition, Akabanga Lagos is launching an aggressive dealer mobilization campaign across Nigeria’s 36 states, aimed at boosting nationwide availability and visibility of the product.

“Nigerians are known for their love of flavor-packed, spicy food, and Akabanga hits the right note with just a few drops,” said Temitope Mudabai, Founder of Akabanga Lagos.

“This acquisition is a dream realized. Having championed this product in Nigeria for years, we are honored to now lead its national distribution. Fondly called Rwanda’s little secret, we’re excited to help more Nigerians discover its magic.”

Mr. Sina Gerard, Founder and Managing Director of Sina Gérard /Entreprise Urwibutso commented “Nigeria boasts one of the largest consumer markets in Africa and is well known for its mouthwatering and diverse gastronomy.

”We are excited to partner with Akabanga Lagos to introduce this delicious tasting product to the market, and we are confident that our product will feel right at home here in Nigeria”.

Akabanga Lagos is set to deepen market penetration and create strategic partnerships to position Akabanga Chili Oil as a household staple in Nigerian homes and restaurants.

For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, or distribution requests, please contact @akabangalagos on Instagram.

UNILAG Warns Public Against Fraudsters Impersonating Vice-Chancellor in Procurement Scam

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UNILAG Warns Public Against Fraudsters Impersonating Vice-Chancellor in Procurement Scam

The University of Lagos, UNILAG, has raised an alert over a disturbing wave of fraudulent activities involving the impersonation of its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS.

In an official statement issued Monday by the Head of the Communication Unit, Mrs. Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, the university revealed that scammers are targeting unsuspecting individuals on social media platforms—including LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and WhatsApp by falsely claiming to be the Vice-Chancellor.

According to the statement, the impostors lure victims into fictitious procurement deals, especially involving laptops and computers.

These scams often involve illegal proposals, such as 60/40 profit-sharing arrangements, demands for secrecy, and requests for upfront payments. The fraudsters operate via private email addresses rather than official UNILAG domains.

UNILAG has distanced itself from the fraudulent activities and reiterated its commitment to due process.

“Let it be unequivocally clear: the University of Lagos conducts all procurement activities through transparent, competitive processes in full compliance with Nigerian Procurement Laws,” the statement read.

“At no time would any legitimate representative of UNILAG, least of all the Vice-Chancellor, request upfront payments, propose kickback arrangements, or conduct official business through personal email accounts or social media platforms.”

The university has reported the matter to law enforcement and is working closely with security agencies to apprehend those behind the impersonation and bring them to justice.

In the meantime, members of the public have been advised to be vigilant and to verify any suspicious messages or requests claiming to originate from UNILAG leadership.

All official communications from the university are issued through institutional channels, and any inquiries can be directed to communicationunit@unilag.edu.ng or vcoffice@unilag.edu.ng.

The university reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on fraud and expressed its resolve to protect the integrity of its name and the safety of its stakeholders.

“We will not tolerate the misuse of our institution’s name or the impersonation of our officials for criminal purposes,” it concluded.

Hon. Dayo Asade Engages Grassroot Youths Through Sports, Advocates for Labour Party in Forthcoming Elections‎

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Political Strategist Asade Adedayo Seeks Fresh Governance Direction Amid Leadership Failures

In a bid to tackle social vices and inspire active political participation among young people, the Labour Party Chairmanship Candidate for Ifako-Ijaiye, Hon. Dayo Asade has participated in grassroots sports initiative aimed at engaging youths in constructive activities.

The event, which featured football matches and mentorship sessions, sought to redirect the energy of young Nigerians toward positive community development and civic responsibility.
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‎Addressing the participants, Hon. Asade emphasized the importance of sports as a tool for unity and personal growth. “Sports have the power to bring people together, instill discipline, and keep our youths away from negative influences. We must harness this potential to build a better society,” he stated.
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‎Beyond promoting healthy living, the Labour Party Chairmanship Candidate also used the platform to encourage the youths to actively participate in the forthcoming elections. He urged them to vote for the Labour Party, describing it as the best alternative for good governance and youth empowerment.
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‎”Your voice matters, and your vote is your power. The Labour Party is committed to addressing the challenges facing young people, from unemployment to education and infrastructure. I call on you to partner with us in this movement for change,” Asade declared.
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‎The event was met with enthusiasm, with many attendees expressing their willingness to mobilize support for the Labour Party in their communities. A youth leader, The coordinator for Adeola Sports center, praised the initiative, saying, “This is the kind of leadership we need—someone who connects with us and gives us hope. We will ensure our votes count in the next election.”
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‎Hon. Asade’s approach highlights the growing trend of using grassroots engagement to drive political awareness and social reform. As the elections draw closer, his efforts could prove pivotal in rallying young voters toward the Labour Party’s vision.

Benue Killings: CAPPA Demands Swift Action, Slams Government Inaction

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Benue Killings: CAPPA Demands Swift Action, Slams Government Inaction

The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has condemned the recent massacre of over 200 persons in Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, calling it a national tragedy and demanding immediate, coordinated government action to end the violence.

In a statement issued over the weekend, CAPPA described the attacks as a brutal escalation of the ongoing crisis in the region, accusing both federal and state authorities of cold indifference and chronic failure to protect lives.

The organisation warned that the killings, allegedly carried out by armed herders, reflect a wider collapse of security and government accountability.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers descended on Yelewata in the early hours of Saturday, wielding sophisticated weapons and setting fire to shelters housing Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

In Daudu, at least five security operatives including police officers and soldiers were reportedly killed during a separate assault.

“This atrocity defies comprehension,” CAPPA stated. “What were once disputes over land and water have transformed into an unchecked campaign of terror, waged with impunity and seemingly aimed at the annihilation of entire communities.”

The organisation lamented the response of security agencies, especially the use of tear gas against mourning protesters demanding justice.

According to CAPPA, the act not only aggravated the tragedy but highlighted the increasing inability of law enforcement to distinguish between citizens seeking redress and the actual perpetrators of violence.

CAPPA criticised the Benue State Government under Governor Hyacinth Alia, as well as the federal government, accusing both of offering empty rhetoric rather than concrete measures.

The group said repeated assurances of safety have not translated into effective intervention, allowing the violence to persist unchecked.

The organisation called for a decisive change in strategy, one that goes beyond condemnations and includes the disarmament of militia groups, prosecution of masterminds behind such attacks, and the establishment of credible peacebuilding frameworks within affected communities.

CAPPA stressed that any security response must include civil society oversight to prevent abuses and ensure accountability.

Beyond security, the group advocated for initiatives to address the root causes of the conflict, including the promotion of modern ranching practices and the end of open grazing.

It also urged government authorities to provide compensation, trauma counselling, and resettlement support for affected families in Yelewata and Daudu.

In its final note, CAPPA emphasised that the killings in Benue cannot be normalised. Without urgent, comprehensive intervention, it warned, the state risks descending into an endless cycle of reprisal and despair.

“If all Nigerians are truly equal,” the statement concluded, “then the right to life must not be negotiable. What is happening in Benue is not just a local crisis — it is a national emergency.”

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